Project Accounting Consultant - Government Contracts - Hybrid in La Crosse, Wisconsin

UnitedHealth Group•La Crosse, WI

13d•$72,800 - $130,000•Hybrid

About The Position

We are seeking an experienced Project Accounting Consultant with deep expertise in government contracting to provide short-term and strategic support for project setup, cost tracking, compliance, and reporting. This role will work closely with program management, finance, and compliance teams to ensure project financials align with Federal Acquisition Regulations (FAR), Cost Accounting Standards (CAS), and Defense Contract Audit Agency (DCAA) requirements. The consultant will play a key role in optimizing project accounting processes, ensuring audit readiness, and providing accurate, timely financial reporting to internal and external stakeholders. If you are located in La Crosse, WI, you will have the flexibility to work remotely as you take on some tough challenges.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field
5+ years of project accounting experience
Solid knowledge of FAR, DFARS, CAS, and DCAA requirements
Proficiency with government contractor ERP systems (e.g., Deltek Costpoint)
Proven ability to work independently, prioritize tasks, and meet tight deadlines
Ability to apply FAR/CAS requirements to daily accounting functions
Skilled in financial analysis, EACs, and variance analysis
High accuracy in coding, reporting, and reconciliations
Works effectively with program, contracts, and procurement teams
Identifies accounting issues quickly and implements practical solutions

Nice To Haves

CPA, CMA, or CGFM certification
5+ years of project accounting experience in a government contracting environment
Experience in multiple contract types (CP, T&M, FFP)
Consulting experience in project accounting or government contracting finance

Responsibilities

Establish compliant project structures in the ERP system, ensuring correct contract types, billing terms, and cost structures
Collaborate with contracts, program management, and procurement to ensure accurate project coding and cost allocation
Monitor labor, materials, subcontract, and indirect cost charges to projects for accuracy and compliance
Support project managers with cost performance metrics, burn rates, and forecast updates
Ensure invoices are prepared in compliance with contract terms and government regulations
Reconcile unbilled receivables, deferred revenue, and billed-to-date amounts
Apply appropriate revenue recognition methods based on contract type (CPFF, T&M, FFP)
Ensure all project accounting processes adhere to FAR, DFARS, and CAS requirements
Support DCAA/DCMA audits, providing required documentation and explanations
Review cost allowability, allocability, and reasonableness in accordance with federal cost principles
Identify gaps and recommend enhancements to project accounting workflows and controls
Provide training and guidance to finance and project teams on compliance and project cost management best practices
Assist with ERP optimization for project accounting and government reporting