Project Accountant

LERCH BATES•Highlands Ranch, CO

6d•$65,000 - $75,000•Hybrid

About The Position

At Lerch Bates, Project Accountants serve as trusted financial partners who support the success of projects from setup through closeout. This role works closely with Project Managers, Consultants, and Corporate Accounting to maintain accurate project financial records, support timely and compliant billing, monitor work in progress, and contribute to strong project performance and healthy cash flow. As a key member of the project team, the Project Accountant translates financial data into clear, actionable information that help guide business decisions and deliver exceptional service to clients. The position provides an opportunity to build strong cross-functional relationships, identify and resolve challenges, and support a diverse portfolio of consulting projects. This is a collaborative, fast-paced role for someone who enjoys balancing analytical accuracy with relationship building. The ideal candidate takes pride in delivering timely, high-quality work, brings curiosity and initiative to process improvement, and is motivated by contributing to both team success and positive client outcomes.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in accounting, Finance, or a business-related field preferred.
Minimum of 2 years of progressive experience in accounting, project accounting, construction accounting, or similar project-based industries.
Experience with ERP/accounting software such as Deltek Vantagepoint, Vision, Microsoft Dynamics, Oracle, SAP, or similar systems preferred.
Familiarity with project contracts, AIA billing formats, and lien wavers
Prior experience with project billing
Advanced computer proficiency in Microsoft Excel, Word, and Outlook; working knowledge of financial accounting systems.
Understanding of GAAP, accounting principles, practices, and standards.
Must demonstrate a commitment to quality, organization, meticulous attention to detail and consistency in work product.
Advanced organizational and critical thinking skills.
Effective written/oral communication skills.
Flexible, responsive, and confident multi-tasker who works independently, manages multiple deadlines, and accommodates shifting priorities.
Ability to collaborate with multiple teams, individuals, to achieve shared outcomes.

Responsibilities

Create, modify, and maintain project records within the accounting system (Deltek Vantagepoint).
Review contracts, proposals, purchase orders, and Notices to Proceed to ensure projects are set up accurately.
Maintain accurate project documentation and financial records.
Assist with project closeout, including final invoicing, collections support, and financial reconciliation.
Monitor project budgets, funding, contract values, and overall financial performance.
Partner with teams to review Work in Progress (WIP), unbilled revenue, and project status.
Prepare monthly project financial reports and assist leadership with forecasting revenue, backlog, and profitability.
Prepare and process client invoices in accordance with contract terms and client-specific billing requirements.
Enter and maintain billing terms, contract amendments, and monitor subconsultant charges.
Review labor, expenses, consultant costs, and project transactions for accuracy prior to billing.
Submit invoices through client portals and billing systems, revise as needed.
Identify potential billing issues and proactively collaborate with project teams to resolve discrepancies.
Ensure compliance with company accounting policies, contract requirements, and internal controls.
Support monthly close activities and respond timely to audit documentation requests.
Assist team members by providing cross-coverage, maintaining the project accounting mailbox, and supporting departmental priorities as needed.
Collaborate with location leadership to enhance process, assist with requests, follow up, and maintain positive relationships with key stakeholders.
Prepare and maintain project and location reporting, providing timely insights and escalating concerns to support informed decision-making.
Participate in process improvement initiatives that enhance operational efficiency, reporting, and the overall client experience.

Benefits

Competitive compensation
100% Employee-Owned ESOP (company-funded retirement benefit that allows eligible employees to share in the company's long-term success)
Health, dental, and vision insurance
Paid time off (starting at 17 days annually)
10 paid holidays
401(k) with employer match
Paid parental leave
Professional development and tuition reimbursement
Performance-based incentives and bonuses
Employee assistance and wellness programs