Project Accountant - Defense Contractor

We are seeking an experienced Project Accountant to join our growing accounting department. Our defense contracting business is undergoing a major expansion, and this position will help strengthen accounting processes, support complex projects, and establish the structure needed for continued growth. We are looking to fill this position as soon as possible. Government contracting experience is a plus, but we are willing to train the right candidate on government contracting regulations and requirements. Candidates must have at least 2--3 years of complex project accounting experience. Responsibilities - Manage project accounting activities, including cost tracking, billing, reconciliations, and financial reporting. - Monitor project budgets, actual costs, commitments, and forecasts; investigate variances and communicate financial risks. - Work with project managers to review project profitability and estimated costs to complete. - Support month-end close through journal entries, account reconciliations, and project financial reviews. - Maintain accurate project setup, cost allocations, and contract documentation. - Assist with audits, internal controls, and government contract compliance. - Help develop and improve accounting procedures and reporting as the company expands. Required Qualifications - At least 2--3 years of complex project accounting experience in defense contracting, construction, engineering, architecture, aerospace, manufacturing, energy, IT implementation, consulting, or another project-based industry. - A bachelor's degree in Accounting or Finance, an MBA, or a Master of Accounting (MAcc). - Strong understanding of project costs, budgeting, reconciliations, and financial reporting. - Strong Excel skills and experience using accounting or enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems. - Excellent attention to detail, analytical abilities, and organizational skills. - Ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines while maintaining accuracy. - Ability to communicate effectively with accounting colleagues, project managers, and company leadership. - Ability to successfully complete a background check, consistent with applicable law and contract requirements. Preferred Skills and Certifications - CPA or CMA certification is a plus, but not required. - Deltek Costpoint experience is strongly preferred. - Government contract accounting experience, including familiarity with FAR, DFARS, CAS, or DCAA audit requirements. - Experience with fixed-price, time-and-materials, or cost-reimbursable contracts. - Knowledge of indirect costs, overhead allocations, labor charging, and project billing. - Experience with revenue recognition, work in progress, and estimates at completion. - Advanced Excel skills, including pivot tables, lookup formulas, and Power Query. - Experience documenting procedures, improving accounting processes, or supporting system implementations. - Ability to work independently and adapt to changing priorities in a growing business.