Cost Accounting Manager

About the Role

The Cost Accounting Manager plays a critical role in supporting the financial success of our construction operations. This position oversees project and job costing, prepares financial projections and budgets, supports month-end closing and reporting, and provides leadership for job cost functions. The ideal candidate will thrive in a fast-paced environment, demonstrating precision, strong analytical skills, and effective communication.

Responsibilities

• Monitor project budgets, commitments, forecasts, and actual cost records across multiple construction projects and entities.
• Identify cost performance and collaborate with Project Managers and Superintendents to resolve discrepancies.
• Support the month-end close process to ensure timely and accurate financial reporting, including reconciliations, journal entries, and cost adjustments.
• Assist with Work-in-Progress (WIP) schedules and project profitability analysis.
• Ensure accurate job costing in alignment with GAAP and company policies.
• Assist with monthly financial forecasts and performance reporting for active projects.
• Contribute to the annual budgeting process and periodic financial reviews.
• Prepare and present financial reports for leadership, highlighting trends, risks, and opportunities.
• Develop, document, and maintain accounting policies, procedures, and internal controls related to project financial performance.
• Ensure compliance with company policies, GAAP, and applicable regulatory requirements.
• Support internal and external audit processes, including documentation and data requests.
• Track and report project data to assist with tax compliance and audit requirements.
• Ensure compliance with change orders, subcontract agreements, and other required documentation.
• Oversee Job Cost functions and provide guidance, training, and support to accounting staff.
• Serve as a key partner to Operations, Project Management, and Finance teams.
• Identify opportunities to improve processes, systems, and reporting efficiency.
• Support continuous improvement initiatives within accounting and project controls.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field (required).
• Minimum of 5 years of progressive accounting experience; construction industry experience strongly preferred.
• Thorough understanding of construction accounting principles and GAAP.
• Experience with job cost accounting, WIP reporting, and project forecasting.
• Experience with Viewpoint Vista or similar construction ERP systems preferred.
• Strong proficiency in Microsoft Excel (pivot tables, lookups, data analysis).
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with high attention to detail.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Effective communication skills, with the ability to explain financial concepts to non-financial personnel.
• Strong organizational skills and ability to maintain accurate and detailed records.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively across departments.
• High level of integrity and professionalism in handling confidential information.

Supervisory Responsibilities

• May supervise and provide directions to accounting or job cost staff.
• Responsible for coaching, training, and performance management of assigned team members.

Work Environment & Physical Demands

• Primarily based in an office environment with a typical schedule of Monday - Friday from 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM.
• Some flexibility may be required based on project needs.
• Occasional visits to job sites, which may involve exposure to outdoor environments.
• Ability to sit for extended periods and work on a computer.