Project Cost Accountant
Job Summary:
The Project Cost Accountant will play a critical role in managing financial aspects of construction projects, ensuring accurate cost tracking, budgeting, and reporting to support project success and profitability. This position requires a detail-oriented professional with experience in construction accounting, who can collaborate with project managers, engineers, and field teams to maintain financial integrity in a fast-paced environment.
Key Responsibilities:
- Monitor and analyze project costs, including labor, materials, equipment, and subcontractor expenses, to ensure alignment with budgets and forecasts.
- Prepare detailed cost reports, variance analyses, and financial projections for ongoing projects, identifying potential risks and opportunities for cost savings.
- Assist in the development of project budgets, change orders, and contract negotiations, providing accurate financial data to support decision-making.
- Track job progress through cost coding, invoice processing, and reconciliation of accounts payable/receivable related to projects.
- Collaborate with project managers and superintendents to review cost performance, resolve discrepancies, and implement corrective actions as needed.
- Ensure compliance with accounting standards, tax regulations, and company policies, including accurate documentation for audits and financial reviews.
- Utilize construction-specific software (e.g., ERP systems such as Sage, Viewpoint, or similar) to maintain real-time financial data and generate insightful reports for management.
- Support month-end and year-end closing processes, including accruals, allocations, and financial statement preparation for assigned projects.
- Contribute to process improvements in cost accounting procedures to enhance efficiency and accuracy across the organization.
Qualifications:
- Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field; CPA or CMA certification preferred.
- 3+ years of experience in cost accounting, preferably in the construction industry or heavy civil projects.
- Strong knowledge of construction cost principles, including job costing, budgeting, and financial forecasting.
- Proficiency in accounting software (e.g., Sage, Viewpoint, or similar) and advanced Excel skills for data analysis.
- Excellent analytical, organizational, and problem-solving abilities with attention to detail.
- Ability to work collaboratively in a team environment while managing multiple projects under tight deadlines.
- Understanding of safety protocols and commitment to a safety-first culture in construction settings.
- Valid driver's license and willingness to travel to project sites as needed.
Benefits:
- Competitive salary commensurate with experience.
- Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance.
- 401(k) retirement plan with company match.
- Paid time off and holidays
- Opportunity to work on impactful infrastructure projects in a supportive, growth-oriented company.