Project Accountant

PBK; Berkeley (CA); On-site; USD 52,000 - 78,000; Full time

Job summary

PBK in Berkeley, CA is seeking a Project Accountant to ensure financial accuracy across project lifecycles, coordinate with Project Managers and Operations, enable accurate billing and timely reporting.

The role requires 2+ years in accounts payable/receivable, an associate degree in accounting (bachelor's preferred), and strong Excel skills. You will review invoices, monitor AR, support month-end close, and help drive process improvements.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Accounting or Finance.
• 2 years of experience in an accounting role or working for an Architecture/Engineering firm.
• Extensive experience in Excel.
• Ability to interact with senior management and external organizations.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.

Responsibilities

• Partner with Project Managers to initiate new projects and assign fees.
• Maintain contracts, proposals, purchase orders and subconsultant agreements.
• Monitor accounts receivable and support collections with Project Managers.
• Review and process vendor and consultant invoices for accuracy.
• Support corporate purchasing activities and project progress billing.
• Assist with month-end and year-end close and reporting.
• Provide ad hoc financial analysis to project and operations teams.
• Ensure accurate project setup in the ERP system and WIP scheduling.

Skills

Advanced Excel

Analytical skills

Attention to detail

Communication

Organizational skills

Education

Associate degree in Accounting

Bachelor's Degree in Accounting or Finance

Tools

Deltek Vision

ERP systems

Job description

As a Project Accountant, you will be a key contributor to the financial accuracy and operational efficiency of our projects. Working closely with Project Managers and Operations leadership, you’ll ensure contract compliance, accurate billing, and timely reporting throughout the project lifecycle. Success in this role requires strong attention to detail, effective communication with vendors and internal teams, and a proactive approach to problem-solving. The ideal candidate is highly organized, self‑motivated, and able to work independently after initial training. A minimum of 2 years of experience in accounts payable and/or receivable is required, along with an associate degree in Accounting (Bachelor’s preferred). Accuracy, timeliness, and strong analytical skills are essential.

Your Impact

• Partner with Project Managers to initiate new projects, including calculating and assigning appropriate fees based on contract terms.
• Maintain and manage project documentation such as contracts, proposals, purchase orders, and subconsultant agreements.
• Monitor accounts receivable and support collection efforts in collaboration with Project Managers.
• Review and process vendor and consultant invoices, ensuring accuracy and compliance with project terms.
• Support corporate purchasing activities as needed.
• Coordinate with Project Managers to assess project progress and ensure billing reflects the accurate stage of completion.
• Research project expenses to determine reimbursement eligibility by the contract terms.
• Assist with monthly project reviews and collaborate with Operations to assess performance and profitability.
• Provide ad hoc financial analysis and guidance to project and operations teams.
• Support month‑end and year‑end close processes, ensuring timely and accurate reporting.
• Evaluate and maintain internal controls by identifying and addressing potential risk areas.
• Ensure accurate project setup in the ERP system and validate contract billing terms and subconsultant structures.
• Serve as the financial liaison for assigned projects, maintaining continuous communication with Operations leaders and project teams.
• Assist in preparing the Work‑in‑Progress (WIP) schedule in partnership with the Regional Controller.
• Champion process improvements and uphold quality, productivity, and customer service standards.
• Participate in cross‑functional teams and contribute to broader Finance initiatives and meetings.
• Deliver exceptional internal and external customer service and continuously seek ways to improve financial operations.

Here’s What You’ll Need

• Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration, Accounting or Finance
• 2 years of experience in an accounting role or working for an Architecture/Engineering firm in any financially focused capacity
• Extensive experience in Excel
• Ability to interact with senior management and external organizations
• Strong organizational skills
• Strong attention to detail including proofreading
• Excellent English oral and written communication skills

Here’s How You’ll Stand Out

• Experience with accounting software, preferably Deltek Vision
• Highly proficient in Microsoft Excel

$52,000.00 - $78,000.00

PBK is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants can be considered for an opportunity without regard to sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, religious creed, national origin, physical or mental disability, protected veteran status, criminal history, or any other characteristic protected by law. Additionally, it is our policy to provide equal employment opportunity in all phases of employment in compliance with all applicable federal and state laws, rules, and regulations.