Cost Accountant

As a Cost Accountant within Bus Éireann, you will play a critical role in the financial management and control of key operational and overhead cost areas across the organisation. This position is responsible for the detailed analysis, monitoring and forecasting of operating costs, overheads and accommodation expenses, ensuring accurate tracking of actual spend against budget and forecast. Working closely with the Finance team and Operations Controller, the role requires a proactive, analytical professional who can develop meaningful KPIs, investigate variances, and provide clear financial insights to support effective decision\-making. Using your experience in financial systems such as SAP and data analysis tools, you will contribute to in dept financial reporting, future planning and continuous improvement in cost efficiency across the organisation. System experience is key in this role as there will be a requirement to ensure financial completeness in SAP for garage costs. **This is a 2 year contract position and will be based in Bus Éireanns Broadstone head office in Dublin.** **KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:** * Manage and monitor operating and overhead costs, ensuring accurate tracking of actuals against budget and forecast. * Perform detailed analysis of periodic vendor charges across all cost areas and locations, ensuring accuracy, completeness and correct period allocation. * Develop, implement and maintain relevant KPIs to support cost analysis and operational performance (e.g. Direct Materials, garage labour allocation, tyres \& energy usage). * Analyse planned versus actual costs. * Analyse and present variances to budget and forecast at regular review meetings with the Head of Business Operations Control and Finance team. * Prepare and maintain forward\-looking forecasts, incorporating operational plans such as fleet changes and service requirements that will impact costs for the remainder of the financial year. * Conduct regular reviews to ensure all costs are accurately recorded, aligned to the correct reporting period and supported by appropriate documentation. * Utilise SAP and other systems to perform detailed financial analysis, support periodic accounts and ensure data integrity. * Collaborate with the Finance Management team on budgeting, forecasting and forward planning activities. * Provide ad hoc analytical, reporting and administrative support to the Business Operations team, including meeting preparation and coordination as required. **KEY SKILLS \& KNOWLEDGE** * Must be fully qualified accountant (e.g. ACA, ACCA, CIMA or equivalent). * Proven experience in cost control, budgeting and forecasting, with a strong understanding of variance analysis and financial performance management. * Advanced proficiency in SAP and Microsoft Excel, with the ability to analyse large datasets and support accurate financial reporting. * Strong system reconciliation experience. * Experience developing and utilising KPIs to monitor operational and financial performance across multiple cost areas. * Strong attention to detail, with a focus on accuracy, data integrity and correct period allocation of costs. * Excellent planning and organisational skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities and meet reporting deadlines. * Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to present financial information clearly to non\-finance stakeholders. * Flexible and adaptable, with a willingness to support ad hoc analysis and broader finance team requirements. **WHY JOIN BUS ÉIREANN?** Joining Bus Éireann means becoming part of a respected national transport company that plays a vital role in connecting communities across Ireland. We are committed to supporting our employees through competitive pay, professional development opportunities, and a positive work environment that encourages career progression and work\-life balance. As part of our commitment to employee well\-being and long\-term career development, we offer a comprehensive range of benefits. **BENEFITS** * Annual leave: 25 days (Pro Rata) * Travel concession on CIE services * PRSA Scheme * Employee Assistance Programme. * Parking on site * Subsidised canteen **HOW TO APPLY** If you’re ready to shape the future at Bus Éireann visit careers.buseireann.ie to apply by close of business on **28th May 2026\.** *Bus Éireann is proud to be an equal opportunities employer, committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace where everyone can achieve their potential.*