Cost Accounting Manager

McCarl's Inc.; Pittsburgh (Allegheny County); On-site; USD 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

McCarl's Inc. seeks a Cost Accounting Manager in Pittsburgh, PA, responsible for overseeing project and job costing. The ideal candidate will manage budgets, support month-end processes, and ensure GAAP compliance while collaborating with project managers.

A Bachelor's degree in Accounting or Finance is required, along with 5 years of experience in the construction industry. Excellent analytical, communication, and organizational skills are essential. This role primarily operates in an office environment with typical working hours from Monday to Friday.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of progressive accounting experience.
• Thorough understanding of GAAP.
• Experience with job cost accounting and WIP reporting.

Responsibilities

• Oversee project budgets and financial projections.
• Support month-end closing and reporting.
• Ensure compliance with accounting policies and GAAP.

Skills

Construction accounting principles

Analytical skills

Communication skills

Microsoft Excel

Problem-solving skills

Organizational skills

Education

Bachelor's Degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field

Tools

Viewpoint Vista or similar construction ERP systems

Job description

General Purpose:

The Cost Accounting Manager plays a critical role in supporting the financial success of our construction operations. This position is responsible for overseeing project and job costing, preparing financial projections and budgets, supporting month‑end closing and reporting, and providing leadership for job cost functions. The ideal candidate will have a strong understanding of construction accounting principles, excellent analytical and communication skills, and the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast‑paced environment with precision and attention to detail.

Key Responsibilities:

Financial & Cost Oversight

• Monitor project budgets, commitments, forecasts, and actual cost records across multiple construction projects and construction entities.
• Identify cost performance and collaborate with Project Managers and Superintendents to resolve discrepancies.
• Support the month‑end close process to ensure timely and accurate financial reporting.
• Complete monthly reconciliation, journal entries, and cost adjustments as needed.
• Assist with Work‑in‑Progress (WIP) schedules and project profitability analysis.
• Ensure accurate job costing in alignment with GAAP and company policies.

Forecasting & Reporting

• Assist with monthly financial forecasts and performance reporting for active projects.
• Contribute to the annual budgeting process and periodic financial reviews.
• Prepare and present financial reports for leadership, highlighting trends, risks, and opportunities.

Controls & Compliance

• Develop, document, and maintain accounting policies, procedures, and internal controls related to project financial performance.
• Ensure compliance with company policies, GAAP, and applicable regulatory requirements.
• Support internal and external audit processes, including documentation and data requests.
• Track and report project data to assist with tax compliance and audit requirements.
• Ensure compliance with change orders, subcontract agreements, and other required documentation.

Leadership & Collaboration

• Oversee Job Cost functions and provide guidance, training, and support to accounting staff.
• Serve as a key partner to Operations, Project Management, and Finance teams.
• Identify opportunities to improve processes, systems, and reporting efficiency.
• Support continuous improvement initiatives within accounting and project controls.

Education & Experience:

• Bachelor's Degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field (required).
• Minimum of 5 years of progressive accounting experience; construction industry experience strongly preferred.
• Thorough understanding of construction accounting principles and GAAP.
• Experience with job cost accounting, WIP reporting, and project forecasting required.
• Experience with Viewpoint Vista or similar construction ERP systems preferred.
• Strong proficiency in Microsoft Excel (pivot tables, lookups, data analysis).
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills with high attention to detail.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines in a fast‑paced environment.
• Effective communication skills, with the ability to explain financial concepts to non‑financial personnel.
• Strong organizational skills and ability to maintain accurate and detailed records.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively across departments.
• High level of integrity and professionalism in handling confidential information.

Supervisory Responsibilities

• May supervise and provide directions to accounting or job cost staff.
• Responsible for coaching, training, and performance management of assigned team members.

Work Environment & Physical Demands

• This position is primarily based in an office environment.
• The schedule is typically Monday – Friday from 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM. Based on project needs, some flexibility may be required.
• Occasionally it may require visits to job sites, which may involve exposure to outdoor environments.
• Ability to sit for extended periods and work on a computer.

McCarl's and Affiliates are Equal Opportunity Employers. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to their race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, genetic information, disability, veteran status, or on any other characteristic protected by law.