Project Cost Accountant

About Us

United Utility is a pioneering force in the electric utility industry, dedicated to providing comprehensive and innovative offerings that support power infrastructure investments across the United States. As the parent company to industry-leading utility service contractors specializing in transmission, distribution, substation and grid hardening projects, we drive forward progress in the power sector. Our company has headquarters in both Charlotte, NC and New Orleans, LA, with a strong commitment to excellence, sustainability, and the pursuit of groundbreaking solutions.

About The Role

The Project Cost Accountant is responsible for monitoring, analyzing, and reporting all financial aspects of assigned projects. This position ensures project costs are accurately tracked, billed, and reported in alignment with contractual terms and company policies. The role supports project managers and operations leadership by providing timely financial insights to manage budgets, control costs, and improve overall project profitability.

Key Responsibilities

- Maintain detailed cost records for each project, including labor, materials, subcontractor, and overhead expenses.

- Perform general ledger accounting, including journal entries, account reconciliations, and month-end close activities.

- Maintain and monitor job costing systems to ensure accurate allocation of labor, materials, and overhead to specific projects.

- Prepare and analyze project financial reports, identifying trends, cost overruns, and opportunities for improvement.

- Review and reconcile project costs to ensure accuracy and completeness of financial data.

- Support monthly project reviews with Operations and Finance, providing variance analysis and forecasting.

- Monitor budget vs. actual results and identify cost overruns or savings opportunities.

- Collaborate with Project Managers to review job cost reports and ensure alignment between field data and financial systems.

- Assist with project setup, including budget entry, cost codes, and billing milestones.

- Review purchase orders, invoices, and time sheets for proper coding to projects.

- Support revenue recognition and accrual processes based on project progress and percentage-of-completion (POC).

- Prepare project billing summaries and support client invoicing accuracy.

- Assist with internal and external audits related to project financials.

- Support accounts payable and receivable functions, ensuring timely and accurate processing of invoices and payments.

- Ensure compliance with internal controls, company policies, and relevant accounting standards.

- Participate in audits and provide documentation related to project accounting and financial transactions.

- Continuously seek process improvements to enhance accuracy and efficiency in financial reporting.

- Key Qualifications

- - Education: Bachelor’s degree in accounting, Finance, or related field

- Experience: 3–5 years of cost accounting experience in a manufacturing, construction, or production environment.

- Skills:

- Strong knowledge of cost accounting principles (GAAP).

- Proficiency in ERP systems (Sage 300 or similar).

- Advanced Excel skills (pivot tables, lookups, modeling).

- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.

- Attention to detail and ability to meet deadlines.

- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.

- Analytical thinking and data-driven decision-making.

- Strong business acumen with focus on cost control and efficiency.

- Ability to collaborate across departments.

- Continuous improvement mindset.