Project Accountant

Project Accountant at Upchurch summary:

Project Accountant responsible for job cost accounting, billing, WIP reporting, and financial record-keeping for construction projects across the southeastern U.S. Coordinates with project managers and subcontractors to manage budgets, change orders, retainage, and audits while supporting month/quarter/year-end closes. Requires a bachelor’s in accounting/finance (or equivalent), 3–7 years construction accounting experience, strong Excel and software proficiency, and frequent travel (80–100%).

Company Overview

Upchurch is a rapidly growing , full-service building engineering company providing mechanical, plumbing, HVAC, and electrical services across the southeastern United States. Founded in 1970 and headquartered in Horn Lake, MS, Upchurch has grown through both organic expansion and strategic acquisitions , establishing a strong reputation for quality, reliability, and service excellence. We offer end-to-end solutions—from design and installation to ongoing maintenance and emergency support— helping clients maximize building performance, energy efficiency, and equipment lifespan .

Key Responsibilities

• Manage job cost accounting for assigned construction projects.

• Review, code, and post project-related costs to ensure accuracy and compliance.

• Prepare and process progress billings, including schedule of values, change orders, and retainage.

• Track and reconcile project budgets, commitments, and cost variances.

• Assist with preparation and review of work-in-progress (WIP) schedules.

• Monitor subcontractor compliance, including insurance, lien waivers, and contract requirements.

• Coordinate with project managers to resolve cost, billing, and budget issues.

• Track and process change orders and ensure proper financial documentation.

• Support monthly, quarterly, and year-end close processes.

• Assist with audits by preparing project-related schedules and documentation.

• Maintain accurate and organized project financial records.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field (or equivalent experience).

• 3–7 years of accounting experience, preferably in the construction industry.

• Strong understanding of construction accounting and job cost systems.

• Experience with percentage-of-completion and WIP reporting (preferred).

• Familiarity with construction contracts, billing terms, and retainage.

• Proficiency with accounting and construction management software (e.g., Sage, ADP, and BuildOps).

• Strong Excel skills and analytical ability.

• Excellent organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills.

• Certified Public Accountant (CPA) or progress towards certification (preferred)

Physical & Work Requirements

• Must be able to travel 80-100% of the time.

• Primarily office-based with occasional site visits and pre-bid meetings.

• Fast-paced, deadline-driven preconstruction environment.

Benefits:

• Competitive salary based on experience.

• Health, dental, and vision insurance.

• Paid time off and holiday pay.

• Opportunities for professional development and certification assistance.

Equal Employment Opportunity:

Upchurch Companies provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants. We prohibit discrimination and harassment of any type based on race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws.

Keywords:

construction accounting, job cost accounting, work-in-progress (WIP), progress billings, change orders, retainage, construction contracts, Sage accounting, project accountant, percentage-of-completion