Job Summary:
The Staff Accountant will be a key member of the accounting team, responsible for maintaining accurate financial records, assisting with month-end close procedures, and providing critical support for real estate development projects, with a strong focus on managing and tracking construction draws. This role requires a detail-oriented individual with a solid understanding of accounting principles, excellent organizational skills, and the ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment.
Key Responsibilities:
Construction Draw Management:
Review and process construction draw requests, including verifying supporting documentation (e.g., lien waivers, invoices, change orders, progress reports) for accuracy and compliance with loan agreements and contracts.
Coordinate with project managers, general contractors, and lenders to ensure timely submission and approval of draws.
Track and reconcile construction costs against approved budgets and draw schedules.
Prepare and submit draw packages to lenders for funding.
Maintain organized files and documentation for all construction-related expenses and draws.
Monitor and reconcile retainage balances.
Accounts Payable & Receivable:
Process invoices, obtain necessary approvals, and ensure accurate coding to general ledger accounts and projects.
Prepare and process vendor payments (checks, ACH, wire transfers).
Maintain vendor files, including W-9s.
Assist with tenant billing and cash receipts application as needed.
General Ledger & Financial Reporting:
Perform daily accounting activities, including journal entries, reconciliations, and data entry.
Assist with the month-end and year-end close processes, including preparing accruals, prepaids, and other adjusting entries.
Reconcile various balance sheet accounts (e.g., cash, bank accounts, intercompany accounts).
Support the preparation of financial statements and reports.
Maintain fixed asset records and calculate depreciation.
Project Cost Accounting:
Track and monitor project-specific costs, ensuring proper allocation and coding.
Assist with job cost reporting and variance analysis.
Collaborate with project management to ensure accurate cost tracking and forecasting.
Compliance & Audit Support:
Assist with internal and external audit requests.
Ensure compliance with company policies and accounting standards.
Prepare various ad-hoc reports and analyses as requested.
Other Duties:
Maintain organized accounting records and documentation.
Contribute to process improvements and efficiency initiatives within the accounting department.
Provide support to other accounting functions as needed.
Qualifications:
Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field.
3 years of progressive accounting experience, with at least 2 years in the real estate development or construction industry.
Proven experience managing construction draws and job cost accounting is highly preferred.
Strong understanding of Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP).
Proficiency in accounting software (e.g., Yardi, MRI, Sage, QuickBooks Enterprise for construction, etc.) and Microsoft Excel (VLOOKUP, pivot tables).
Excellent attention to detail and accuracy.
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
Excellent communication (written and verbal) and interpersonal skills.
Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
Preferred Qualifications:
Experience with a specific real estate accounting software (e.g., Yardi Voyager).
CPA candidate or active CPA license.