Project Accountant - Federal

Employment Type: Full-Time

FSLA: Salary/Exempt

Division: Finance

Department: Project Accounting

Reports to: Project Accounting Manager

Supervisory Duties: No

As the Project Accountant, you will play a key role in supporting the financial management of construction projects by working closely with the Project Accounting Manager, Project Teams, and the Finance department. You will assist with a wide range of project accounting functions, including Accounts Payable, Subcontractor Costing, Owner Billings, and Cost Reporting.

Your responsibilities will ensure accurate and timely financial tracking, reporting, and compliance across all active projects. This role requires strong attention to detail, the ability to collaborate across teams, and a solid understanding of project-based accounting practices within the construction industry.

Responsibilities / Essential Functions

• Process and track accounts payable invoices and ensure timely payments.
• Set up, enter, and maintain project budgets within the accounting system.
• Manage the end-to-end owner billing process in accordance with contract terms.
• Process intercompany transactions, including invoicing, payments, and reconciliation.
• Assist with monthly cost reporting and support monthly financial closings.
• Ensure all project accounting activities comply with internal policies and industry standards.
• Maintain effective communication with vendors and clients to resolve financial discrepancies.
• Organize and manage project-related financial documentation and records.
• Perform contract reconciliation to ensure accuracy in billing and cost tracking.
• Conduct cost and revenue analysis to support project performance and financial health.
• Support audit preparation and ensure compliance with internal and external audit requirements.
• Assist in budget forecasting and variance analysis.
• Monitor project progress, financial performance, and cash flow to identify potential risks or issues.

Key Skills

• Knowledge of 2 CFR 200 (Uniform Guidance) for federal grants and cooperative agreements.
• Ability to maintain auditable project records and supporting documentation in accordance with federal funding requirements.
• Strong working knowledge of Federal Acquisition Regulations (FAR) and Cost Accounting Standards (CAS)
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• High attention to detail and strong organizational abilities.
• Collaborative team player with a proactive and positive attitude.
• Strong initiative and analytical problem-solving skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines independently.
• Familiarity with construction accounting practices and project-based financial reporting (preferred).

Required Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in accounting or related field
• 2+ years of experience in Project Accounting
• Demonstrated experience administering accounting and compliance requirements for federally funded construction projects.
• Experience supporting contracts subject to FAR Part 31 Cost Principles, indirect cost allocations, and allowable/unallowable cost determinations.
• Experience with cost-reimbursable contracts, time and material contracts and federally funded grant projects.