Staff Project Accountant

Staff Project Accountant Job Overview We are seeking a Project / Staff Accountant to support day-to-day project accounting operations. This role is ideal for a detail-oriented professional with strong construction accounting experience who can balance project accounting responsibilities with general accounting functions. You will play a key role in maintaining accurate financial records, supporting month-end close activities, and ensuring efficient financial processes while partnering closely with Project Managers to help keep projects on budget and on schedule. Our client is a long-established structural steel and fabrication company based in the Detroit area. As a stable, team-oriented organization, they value collaboration, accountability, and continuous improvement. You ll join a close-knit finance team where your expertise directly contributes to project success and operational efficiency. Key Responsibilities Project Accounting Collaborate with Project Managers to manage financial administration from project initiation through close-out Set up and maintain project records within the accounting system Review contracts and proposals to ensure proper project setup and revenue recognition compliance Monitor labor and expense charges; perform labor adjustments and journal entries as needed Review and record inventory allocations Track budgets, forecasts, and actual costs across multiple projects Participate in monthly billing and revenue recognition processes Prepare draft and final invoices for assigned projects Compile required documentation including client waivers, sworn statements, and compliance forms Maintain subcontractor files, including certificates of insurance, qualifications, and related documentation Review and issue subcontractor agreements Initiate subcontractor payments based on contract terms Track receipt of waivers and sworn statements from subcontractors Partner with Project Managers to review and process change orders Maintain knowledge of lien processes, Notices of Furnishing, Notices of Commencement, and certificates of insurance Reporting & Analysis Review weekly project status reports and identify projects requiring additional analysis Obtain, review, and update job estimates, projections, and change orders as needed Participate in monthly project review meetings to provide financial insight Create ad hoc reporting for leadership Monitor AR aging and work with Project Managers and clients to resolve outstanding balances Accounting Operations Prepare and maintain monthly general ledger reconciliations and closing documentation Manage journal entries and ensure proper supporting documentation Review, code, and process vendor and subcontractor invoices Ensure timely payments and maintain accurate AP records Assist with check runs and payment processing Payroll Support Assist with weekly payroll processing Verify timecards, job cost allocations, and payroll deductions Coordinate with HR and external advisors to ensure accurate and timely payroll Maintain payroll records and support compliance with labor laws and internal policies Additional Responsibilities Support the Controller and finance team with additional accounting and administrative tasks as needed Participate in continuous improvement initiatives to streamline accounting processes Qualifications Bachelor s degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field 3+ years of accounting experience within the construction industry Strong knowledge of construction contracts, AIA billing, and job costing Experience with accounting software such as Sage, Spectrum/Viewpoint, Crystal Reports, or similar platforms preferred Advanced Microsoft Excel skills, including pivot tables and VLOOKUPs Excellent analytical, organizational, and communication skills Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment