Project Accountant

Description We are looking for a Contract Project Accountant to support major commercial construction initiatives in Chicago, Illinois. This opportunity is ideal for an experienced, detail-oriented accounting specialist who understands the financial demands of large-scale projects and can work closely with project leadership to keep reporting, billing, and cost tracking accurate. The role requires a strong grasp of construction accounting practices, especially within complex projects valued at $50MM or more.

Responsibilities:

• Administer owner pay applications and oversee project invoicing to ensure timely and accurate billing activity.

• Track financial performance across assigned projects by maintaining cost records, reviewing budgets, and analyzing spending trends.

• Collaborate with project managers and operations partners to provide clear financial insight and support informed project decisions.

• Review project expenses on an ongoing basis, investigate discrepancies, and highlight cost variances that may affect project outcomes.

• Contribute to forecasting activities and prepare financial reports that reflect current project status and anticipated results.

• Maintain organized accounting documentation and support compliance with established construction finance procedures.

• Assist with schedule of values management and other project-related accounting tasks tied to contract and billing administration. Requirements

• At least 5 years of experience in project accounting, with a focus on commercial construction environments.

• Proven background supporting large-scale construction assignments with project values of $50MM or greater.

• Practical experience preparing pay applications, managing billing processes, and handling job cost accounting.

• Familiarity with construction accounting systems and tools.

• Ability to work effectively with project managers, operations teams, and other stakeholders on project financial matters.

• Strong analytical skills with the ability to identify issues, research solutions, and act independently.

• Experience working with general contractors is strongly preferred.

Robert Half is the world’s first and largest specialized talent solutions firm that connects highly qualified job seekers to opportunities at great companies. We offer contract, temporary and permanent placement solutions for finance and accounting, technology, marketing and creative, legal, and administrative and customer support roles.

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All applicants applying for U.S. job openings must be legally authorized to work in the United States. Benefits are available to contract/temporary professionals, including medical, vision, dental, and life and disability insurance. Hired contract/temporary professionals are also eligible to enroll in our company 401(k) plan. Visit roberthalf.gobenefits.net for more information.

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