Project Accountant - Civil Engineering

Title: Project Accountant - Civil Engineering

Location: Chicago, IL (Hybrid Schedule)

Shift: 1st Shift

Hire Type: Direct Hire

Salary: $60k-85k+ per year

Comprehensive Benefits Package

Sterling Engineering is hiring a Project Accountant for a growing civil engineering consulting firm that offers schedule flexibility, professional development, and a collaborative environment.

This is an excellent opportunity for an accounting professional with AEC industry experience who enjoys partnering with Project Managers, owning the billing process, and playing a key role in the financial success of complex engineering projects.

Key Responsibilities

• Prepare monthly project invoices, pre-bills, and billing packages using QuickBooks and BQE CORE
• Review billable labor, direct expenses, subconsultant costs, and project charges for accuracy
• Partner with Project Managers to review project budgets, burn rates, and contract performance
• Process billing adjustments related to scope changes, contract modifications, and unbillable time
• Ensure invoices comply with client contracts, billing requirements, and public agency guidelines
• Manage multiple billing structures, including Time & Materials (T&M), Lump Sum/Fixed Fee, and Cost-Plus-Fixed-Fee (CPFF) contracts
• Submit invoices through client, municipal, and state e-billing portals while resolving any submission issues
• Monitor accounts receivable aging and support collection efforts alongside Project Managers
• Track weekly employee timesheets and assist with payroll processing
• Maintain accurate project financial records while supporting revenue recognition and month-end reporting

Qualifications

• Must have a Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field, or equivalent industry experience
• Must have 3+ years of Project Accounting experience within the Architecture, Engineering, or Construction (AEC) industry
• Strong understanding of project-based accounting and contract billing
• Experience with Time & Materials, Lump Sum, and Cost-Plus contract structures
• Hands-on experience with QuickBooks and BQE CORE or similar AEC project accounting software (Ajera, Deltek, etc.)

Why You'll Love This Opportunity

• Flexible hybrid schedule offering an excellent work-life balance
• Join a growing engineering firm making a lasting impact on infrastructure projects throughout the region
• Highly collaborative environment where accounting works closely with project leadership
• Opportunity to become the financial expert supporting high-profile engineering projects
• Stable organization with long-term career advancement opportunities
• Diverse responsibilities that combine accounting, project management support, contract administration, and financial analysis
• Competitive compensation and comprehensive benefits package designed to support your personal and professional growth

Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status.