Accounting Manager

Sterling Search Partners is helping a Birmingham client with its search for an Accounting Manager. The Accounting Manager oversees all financial operations for the firm with a strong emphasis on project billing, revenue recognition, and maintaining accurate financial records. This role works closely with project managers, leadership, and clients to ensure timely and accurate invoicing, compliance with contract terms, and efficient accounting processes.

Key Responsibilities

Billing & Revenue

• Manage the full billing cycle for all engineering projects, including T&M, fixed-fee, and milestone-based billing.
• Review contracts, rate schedules, and billable labor categories to ensure accurate invoice preparation.
• Work with project managers to verify percent-complete, work-in-progress (WIP), and budget-to-actuals prior to billing.
• Prepare and issue monthly client invoices; follow up on billing discrepancies.
• Oversee revenue recognition in accordance with GAAP and firm policies.

Accounting Operations

• Supervise daily accounting functions including A/R, A/P, general ledger, job cost accounting, and expense reporting.
• Manage month-end and year-end close processes including journal entries, reconciliations, and financial statement preparation.
• Maintain and improve internal controls, accounting policies, and financial reporting systems.
• Prepare cash flow forecasts, financial dashboards, and performance reports for leadership.

Project & Cost Accounting

• Ensure accurate project setup including billing terms, labor rates, budgets, and funding limits.
• Monitor project profitability, utilization, and overhead allocations.
• Support project managers with financial reporting, forecasting, and variance analysis.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field (CPA preferred but not required).
• 5 years of accounting experience, preferably in an engineering, architecture, construction, or consulting firm.
• Strong knowledge of job cost accounting and project billing structures.
• Strong understanding of GAAP and revenue recognition.
• High attention to detail, analytical skills, and ability to meet deadlines.
• Excellent communication skills for working with clients and project managers.