Senior Project Accountant

The Newcastle Search Group, LLC; Chicago (IL); Hybrid; USD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

The Newcastle Search Group, LLC is assisting a well-established real estate developer in downtown Chicago to identify a Senior Project Accountant. You will oversee project-level accounting across active development and construction projects, including construction draws, WIP reporting, and monthly close support.

This hybrid role requires several days in-office in the Chicago market. Local candidates only; relocation is not offered.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of construction or project accounting experience required.
• Hands-on experience with construction draws, WIP reporting, and payment processing.
• Excellent analytical, communication, and problem-solving abilities.

Responsibilities

• Prepare and process monthly construction draw packages, including subcontractor pay applications and internal project billings.
• Coordinate owner and lender draw submissions, including supporting schedules, reporting, and required documentation.
• Monitor draw timelines, funding activity, and payment flow to ensure timely processing.
• Maintain and support WIP schedules and project cost tracking activities.
• Partner with development, construction, project management, and accounting teams across active projects.
• Support accounts payable and project cost accounting functions related to development and construction operations.
• Review invoices, lien waivers, and supporting documentation for accuracy and compliance.
• Maintain organized and accurate project accounting records and supporting files.
• Assist with project reporting, reconciliations, and ad hoc accounting initiatives as needed.
• Collaborate with the broader accounting team on monthly close and project-related financial activities.

Skills

Construction accounting

Excel

Analytical thinking

Communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in Accounting/Finance

Tools

Sage 300

ERP systems

Microsoft Office

Job description

The Newcastle Search Group, LLC has been retained by a well-established, industry-leading real estate developer in downtown Chicago to identify a Senior Project Accountant to join their growing team.

Reporting directly to the Controller, this role offers strong long-term growth potential and exposure to firm leadership. The Senior Project Accountant will oversee project-level accounting functions across active development and construction projects, including construction draw administration, WIP reporting, job cost tracking, financial reporting, and monthly close support. This position will work closely with development, construction, project management, and executive leadership teams throughout the project lifecycle.

This is a hybrid opportunity requiring several days per week in-office. Only candidates local to the Chicago market will be considered at this time, and relocation is not a consideration for the hiring company.

Key Responsibilities

• Prepare and process monthly construction draw packages, including subcontractor pay applications and internal project billings.
• Coordinate owner and lender draw submissions, including supporting schedules, reporting, and required documentation.
• Monitor draw timelines, funding activity, and payment flow to ensure timely processing.
• Maintain and support WIP schedules and project cost tracking activities.
• Partner closely with development, construction, project management, and accounting teams across active projects.
• Support accounts payable and project cost accounting functions related to development and construction operations.
• Review invoices, lien waivers, and supporting documentation for accuracy and compliance.
• Maintain organized and accurate project accounting records and supporting files.
• Assist with project reporting, reconciliations, and ad hoc accounting initiatives as needed.
• Collaborate with the broader accounting team on monthly close and project-related financial activities.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field preferred.
• 5+ years of construction or project accounting experience required.
• Hands-on experience with construction draws, WIP reporting, project cost tracking, and payment processing.
• Advanced Excel skills and proficiency with Microsoft Office applications.
• Experience with ERP systems and construction management software preferred; Sage 300 experience strongly preferred.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines.
• Excellent analytical, communication, and problem-solving abilities.Professional, collaborative, and team-oriented mindset.