Project Accountant

SUMMARY OF POSITION

The Project Accountant manages the financial aspects of multiple construction projects from contract award through closeout. This role ensures accurate job cost tracking, Project Prelims management, progress billing, change order management, and compliance with GAAP and company policies. 

The Project Accountant works closely with Project Managers, Engineers, Superintendents, and the Operations Team to provide financial visibility, control project costs, and drive profitability. The ideal candidate has strong construction accounting experience, is detail-oriented, and communicates effectively across field and office teams. 

POSITION RESPONSIBILITIES

Project Financial Management 

• Set up and maintain project financials in Sage Intacct, ensuring accurate cost codes for labor, materials, equipment, subcontracts, and overhead.
  • Track job costs and Project Prelims, including mobilization, temporary facilities, permits, insurance, and other project overhead.
  • Monitor project budgets, committed costs, and change orders; collaborate with Project Managers and Engineers to address variances and maintain profitability.
  • Review job cost reports monthly with Superintendents and Operations, ensuring accurate cost-to-complete estimates and forecasts.
  • Prepare project financial forecasts, cash flow schedules, and margin projections through all project phases.
  • Support WIP schedules, over/under billings, and project profitability analysis for the Controller.

Billing, Collections & Revenue Recognition 

• Prepare and process AIA progress billings, T&M invoices, and milestone-based invoices per contracts.
• Confirm completed work with Project Managers and Engineers prior to billing submission.
• Track and reconcile retention and ensure timely collection and release.
• Process subcontractors pay applications and validate compliance documentation (lien releases, insurance certificates, change orders).
• Perform monthly revenue recognition and cost accruals in accordance with GAAP and company policies.
• Support month-end close by reconciling project costs, labor allocations, and WIP adjustments.

Compliance, Documentation & Internal Controls 

• Maintain accurate project documentation, including contracts, change orders, and billing schedules.
• Ensure project setup and job cost structures comply with company policies and audit requirements.
• Review supporting documentation for project expenses, subcontractor payments, and cost allocations.
• Assist with internal and external audits, providing detailed job cost data and supporting schedules.

EXPERIENCE, EDUCATION, SKILLS AND/OR ABILITIES REQUIRED

Experience: 10 years of progressive accounting experience, including 5 years in construction or project accounting.

Degree: Bachelor’s degree in accounting, Finance, or Business Administration (preferred). 

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities 

• Strong knowledge of job cost accounting, Project Prelims, percent-complete revenue recognition, and WIP reporting.
• Must have experience with Sage Intacct; Procore experience a plus.
• Deep understanding of GAAP and construction accounting principles. 
• Proficient in Excel (pivot tables, VLOOKUP, data analysis) and ERP reporting.
• Strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent communication skills — able to collaborate with Project Managers, Engineers, Superintendents, and Operations leadership.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines in a fast-paced construction environment.

Performance Metrics 

• Accuracy and timeliness of project setup, billing, and cost reporting.
• Reduction in unbilled revenue, cost overruns, and AR aging.
• Compliance with billing and retention release schedules.
• Accuracy of forecasts, job cost reports, and WIP schedules.
• Cross-department satisfaction (Project Management, Engineering, and Operations).

WORKING CONDITIONS

• General working environment - sitting for long periods, standing, walking, typing, carrying, pushing, bending. Work is primarily conducted indoors with varying environmental conditions such as fluorescent lighting and air conditioning. Occasional visits to other SOFFA locations.