Project Accountant

SUMMARY

The Project Accountant position is responsible for analyzing financial information and monitoring the progression of projects.  They will investigate variances, approve expenses, and ensure projects are billed to the customers and payments are collected.    

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES include the following. Other duties may be assigned.

• Effectively communicate with the necessary departments regarding contract documents, change orders and other contract modifications, approvals, and any additional services-related to billing.
• Ensure consistent billing and financial reporting at project levels by following best practices.  
• Maintain the billing folders for all projects, with all the appropriate documents, including expenses, consultant invoices, and monthly invoices, in accordance with standard procedures. 
• Review project budgets, staffing and work plans to guarantee appropriate fees.
• Prepare and send exact invoices to clients and collect payments.
• Establish tables of accounts and assign entries to proper accounts. 
• Develop, maintain, and analyze budgets, preparing periodic reports that compare budgeted costs to actual costs. 
• Provide year-end support of auditor requirements.
• Prepare local property and business tax returns. 
• Ensure the clients contracts are up to date with changes that reflect the project needs.
• Guarantee timely reporting, budgeting, financial management and project forecasting to clients.

COMPETENCIES

To perform the job successfully, an individual should demonstrate the following competencies:

• Planning/Organizing - Prioritizes and plans work activities; uses time efficiently; plans for additional resources; sets goals and objectives; organizes or schedules other people and their tasks; develops realistic action plans.
• Innovation - Displays original thinking and creativity; meets challenges with resourcefulness; generates suggestions for improving work; develops innovative approaches and ideas; presents ideas and information in a manner that gets others' attention.
• Analytical - Synthesizes complex or diverse information; collects and researches data; uses intuition and experience to complement data; demonstrates attention to detail.
• Communications - Expresses ideas and thoughts verbally; expresses ideas and thoughts in written form; exhibits good listening and comprehension; keeps others adequately informed; selects and uses appropriate communication methods.
• Job Knowledge - Competent in required job skills and knowledge; keeps abreast of current developments; requires minimal supervision; displays understanding of how job relates to others.
• Cost Consciousness - Works within approved budget; develops and implements cost saving measures; contributes to profits and revenue; conserves organizational resources.
• Problem Solving - Identifies and resolves problems in a timely manner; gathers and analyzes information skillfully; develops alternative solutions; works well in group problem solving situations; uses reason even when dealing with emotional topics.
• Diversity - Demonstrates knowledge of EEO/AAP policy; shows respect and sensitivity for cultural differences; educates others on the value of diversity; promotes a harassment-free environment; builds a diverse workforce.

QUALIFICATIONS The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required.

Education and/or Experience

Bachelor's degree in Business or Accounting; or 5 years related experience and/or training; or equivalent combination of education and experience. Must have a thorough knowledge of accounting principles, standard contract terms, including hourly, lumps sum, not -to-exceed and how they are applied in the billing process.  Ability to work independently, take initiative, set priorities, and see projects through to completion. 

Physical Demands

While performing the duties of this Job, the employee is regularly required to use hands to type, handle, or feel and talk or hear.  The employee is frequently required to stand; walk and sit.  The employee is occasionally required to reach with hands and arms and stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl. The employee must frequently lift and/or move up to 10 pounds and occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds.