Project Accountant

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

Job summary

PBK Architects, Inc. seeks a Project Accountant in Berkeley, California, to enhance financial accuracy and operational efficiency. Responsibilities include managing project documentation, monitoring accounts, and supporting financial analysis.

The ideal candidate will hold a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration or Accounting, with at least 2 years of relevant experience, particularly in architecture or engineering firms. The salary range is $52,000 to $78,000.

Qualifications

• Minimum 2 years of experience in accounts payable and/or receivable.
• Experience in an architecture/engineering firm or similar financially focused role.
• Strong attention to detail and proofreading skills.

Responsibilities

• Partner with Project Managers to initiate new projects and calculate fees.
• Manage project documentation such as contracts and purchase orders.
• Monitor accounts receivable and support collection efforts.

Skills

Organizational skills

Excel proficiency

Analytical skills

Communication skills

Education

Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration, Accounting, or Finance

Tools

Deltek Vision

Job description

As a Project Accountant, you will be a key contributor to the financial accuracy and operational efficiency of our projects.

You’ll work closely with Project Managers and Operations leadership to ensure contract compliance, accurate billing, and timely reporting throughout the project lifecycle.

Responsibilities

• Partner with Project Managers to initiate new projects, 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.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration, Accounting, or Finance (Associate degree acceptable).
• Minimum 2 years of experience in accounts payable and/or receivable.
• Experience working in an architecture/engineering firm or similar financially focused role.
• Extensive experience in Excel and accounting software (Deltek Vision preferred).
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail, including proofreading.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills in English.
• Ability to interact with senior management and external organizations.
• Strong analytical skills and ability to work independently after initial training.

Salary range: $52,000.00 - $78,000.00 (California).

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.