Senior Accountant (Temp)

Andrews & Cole; Bethesda (MD); On-site; USD 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading government contract firm in Maryland is seeking a Temporary Senior Accountant to manage critical accounting functions for government contracts. The role entails ensuring compliance with Federal Acquisition Regulations (FAR) and Cost Accounting Standards (CAS), preparing financial reports, and collaborating with project teams. Ideal candidates should have a Bachelor's degree in Accounting, over 3 years of relevant experience, and strong knowledge of government contract accounting standards. Proficiency with accounting systems such as Unanet or Deltek is preferred.

Qualifications

• 3+ years’ experience in accounting or finance roles.
• Experience in government contracting finance.
• CPA or CPA candidate is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Manage government contract accounting including revenue recognition.
• Ensure compliance with FAR and CAS.
• Prepare accurate financial reports including ICS.

Skills

Knowledge of FAR

Knowledge of CAS

Analytical skills

Organizational skills

Communication skills

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Accounting or Finance

Tools

Unanet

Deltek

Job description

Overview

The Temporary Senior Accountant plays a critical role in supporting government contract accounting, reporting, and compliance. This position requires deep familiarity with Federal Acquisition Regulations (FAR), Cost Accounting Standards (CAS), and the unique financial requirements of government-funded programs. You will ensure accuracy in contract financials, support audits, and collaborate closely with project and program teams to maintain compliant and well-documented accounting practices.

Responsibilities

• Manage all aspects of government contract accounting including revenue recognition, cost allocation, and indirect rate applications.
• Ensure full compliance with FAR and CAS in all accounting and reporting activities.
• Prepare accurate, timely financial reports such as incurred cost submissions (ICS), provisional billing rate proposals, and contract closeouts.
• Collaborate with project managers and program teams to gather data for contract financial reporting.
• Monitor contract performance, financial trends, and cost drivers to support decision-making.
• Calculate, analyze, and monitor indirect rates (overhead, G&A, fringe), ensuring proper application and compliance.
• Provide insights and recommendations related to rate performance and optimization.
• Support internal and external audits, including documentation gathering and audit response preparation.
• Maintain accurate financial records in accordance with government regulations and company policies.
• Work closely with finance, project control, contracts, and program teams to ensure accurate and timely financial reporting.
• Assist with ad hoc financial analysis, system improvements, and special projects as needed.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field.
• 3+ years’ experience.
• Strong knowledge of FAR, CAS, and government contract accounting standards.
• Prior experience in a government contracting finance or accounting role.
• Experience preparing government contract financials such as ICS, indirect rate calculations, and financial statements.
• Advanced understanding of indirect rate structures (overhead, G&A, fringe).
• Proficiency with accounting systems commonly used in GovCon environments (e.g., Unanet, Deltek).
• Excellent analytical, organizational, and communication skills.
• CPA or CPA candidate a plus.