Project Accountant
Reports to Project Manager/Mine Manager
Reporting to the Project Manager and working in close coordination with the Corporate Accounting team, the Project Accountant is responsible for all onsite accounting and financial reporting activities. This position ensures accurate cost tracking, contract compliance, and timely customer billing while supporting site leadership in understanding and managing project financial performance.
The Project Accountant acts as the financial steward for the project, maintaining accuracy and transparency in all project-related transactions. The role requires strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and the ability to communicate effectively between field operations and the corporate accounting department.
Position Responsibilities:
Financial Management & Reporting
Maintain accurate and up-to-date financial records for the project, including budgets, forecasts, and cost tracking.
Prepare and review detailed project cost reports comparing actual expenditures against budgets and forecasts.
Identify and communicate cost variances, trends, and potential overruns to project and corporate leadership.
Monitor project expenditures, accruals, and commitments to ensure data integrity.
Assist the Project Manager in preparing monthly project financial reviews and performance summaries.
Support management in evaluating project profitability and financial KPIs.
Ensure that all transactions and documentation align with company accounting policies and internal controls.
Prepare monthly, quarterly, and year-end reports as required by the corporate accounting schedule.
Customer Billing & Contract Compliance
Review mining services contract to identify and interpret key financial terms, including payment schedules, billing structure, retainage, and escalation clauses.
Compile field work order (FWO) data, quantities, and supporting documentation for client billing.
Prepare accurate and timely customer invoices in compliance with contractual terms and Turner's accounting standards.
Coordinate invoice submittal, client review, and payment tracking in partnership with the Project Manager.
Monitor accounts receivable status, follow up on outstanding invoices, and assist with collections as needed.
Support the Project Manager in preparing and submitting change orders, supporting cost documentation, and correspondence related to financial adjustments.
Project Support & Coordination
Work directly with site leadership to help interpret and control project financial results.
Provide guidance to foremen and superintendents regarding cost coding, purchase requisitions, and expense documentation.
Review and verify field data entries including timecards, equipment hours, and material quantities for accuracy and completeness.
Manage project-level administrative items such as insurance certifications, business licenses, and vendor documentation.
Support the Project Manager and Corporate Accounting team during audits, financial reviews, and internal reporting cycles.
Assist with onboarding and setup for new vendors, subcontractors, and suppliers in compliance with company policy.
Systems & Process Management
Enter, reconcile, and analyze project data using company accounting systems (Sage Intacct or equivalent ERP).
Maintain cost code integrity and consistency across project reporting systems (HeavyJob, Intacct, and Excel trackers).
Ensure all purchase orders, invoices, and receipts are properly coded and approved.
Support month-end close and reconciliation processes in coordination with Corporate Accounting.
Recommend and implement improvements to project financial management processes and reporting tools.
The Ideal Candidate
Knowledge
Bachelor's degree in accounting, finance, or related field.
3-5 years of experience in project or management accounting, preferably in mining, heavy civil, or industrial construction.
Strong understanding of project-based accounting and cost control principles.
Working knowledge of contracts, pay applications, and change order processes.
Proficiency in ERP systems (Sage Intacct preferred) and advanced Excel capabilities.
Familiarity with project management systems such as HCSS HeavyJob, Procore, or similar tools.
Understanding of GAAP and internal control procedures.
Key Competencies / Skills
Analytical, detail-oriented, and able to interpret complex financial data.
Strong communicator who can translate financial results into actionable information for field leaders.
Proactive and organized, able to manage multiple priorities and meet tight deadlines.
Demonstrates initiative, accountability, and professionalism in all interactions.
Capable of working independently while collaborating effectively with site and corporate teams.
High degree of integrity and commitment to maintaining confidentiality and accuracy.
Committed to Turner's values and to supporting the success of project leadership and corporate goals.
