Property Accountant

COPT Defense Properties•Columbia, MD

About The Position

The Property Accountant works with the Portfolio Controller to maintain the books and records for assigned properties and perform month-end close activities. The role prepares and records journal entries, performs variance analysis and balance sheet reconciliations, supports budgeting and forecasting, and works with Property Management teams on financial results, accounts receivable issues, and forecasts. The position also monitors purchase orders and invoices, supports annual operating expense true-ups, and may participate in due diligence for acquisitions, dispositions, or financings.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in accounting or a related field.
One to three years of related accounting experience with strong performance; college graduates with CDP internship experience will also be considered.
Proficiency with PCs and Microsoft Office applications, including Word, Excel, and Outlook, and ability to learn company-specific software.
Ability to adapt to new or changing software programs.
Familiarity with accounting systems.
Strong analytical, technical, interpersonal, and communication skills.
Ability to manage and comprehend multiple complex business transactions and documents simultaneously, using sound and potentially independent judgment.
Strong critical-thinking skills and a solutions-based approach to identified areas of opportunity.
Ability to work independently.
Working knowledge of GAAP and Sarbanes-Oxley.
Occasional travel to portfolio locations.

Nice To Haves

CPA or CPA candidate.

Responsibilities

Maintain books and records for assigned properties in collaboration with the Portfolio Controller.
Perform assigned month-end close activities for the property portfolio.
Propose and/or record monthly journal entries for rental revenue, CAM accruals, direct tenant billings, contract accruals, and other operating expense accruals.
Prepare variance analyses comparing actual results against budgets and forecasts for current and prior periods.
Prepare balance sheet account reconciliations for review by the Portfolio Controller and resolve outstanding items using appropriate judgment and discretion.
Maintain internal controls and communicate control deficiencies to the supervisor.
Meet regularly with Property Management teams to review financial results, discuss outstanding accounts receivable, and update quarterly forecasts.
Collaborate with and support Property Management teams as needed.
Work with the Portfolio Controller to prepare and analyze budgets and forecasts.
Monitor and review purchase orders and pay invoices to ensure timely payment and recording and proper coding.
Participate in the annual operating expense true-up process to ensure accurate tenant billings or refunds in accordance with lease requirements.
Monitor tenant accounts for completeness and accuracy.
Support Accounts Receivable in resolving questions and issues.
Participate in due diligence for acquisitions, dispositions, or financings, including work under compressed timeframes.
Participate in maintaining CDP's internal controls and policies.
Perform other job-related duties as assigned.