Senior Project Accountant

Job Description

Build Better. Be Better. Build Better.

For nearly 150 years, Sauer has been helping shape the future of construction. Founded in 1876, Sauer Group has grown from a small plumbing business into a fifth-generation construction and mechanical contracting organization known for delivering complex HVAC, piping, plumbing, structural steel, and industrial construction solutions throughout Central Ohio and beyond. Today, we serve some of the region's most demanding markets, including data centers, manufacturing, healthcare, higher education, snd mission-critical facilities.

At Sauer Group, our success is driven by strong client relationships, technical expertise, safety, innovation, and a commitment to doing what is right. We are seeking a talented Senior Project Accountant who is ready to become a strategic financial partner to our project teams and help drive successful project outcomes.

Position Summary

The Senior Project Accountant is a key contributor to the financial success of construction projects from award through closeout. This position partners closely with Project Managers, Operations Leaders, and Finance leadership to ensure accurate financial reporting, forecasting, billing, cash flow management, and profitability analysis.

The ideal candidate will bring a strong background in construction accounting, project financial management, job costing, and forecasting while serving as a trusted advisor to project teams. This role also provides leadership and guidance to Project Accountants and Project Administrators and plays a vital role in supporting organizational growth and operational excellence.

What You'll Do

Project Financial Management

Partner with Project Managers and Operations leaders to monitor project performance and profitability.

Maintain accurate job cost reporting and ensure proper cost coding and allocation.

Analyze project financial performance and identify risks, opportunities, and corrective actions.

Review project contract requirements and support financial compliance.

Forecasting & Financial Analysis

Prepare and maintain project forecasts including:

Cost-to-complete estimates

Revenue projections

Cash flow forecasts

End-of-Job (EOJ) profitability projections

Assist with monthly financial close processes and project financial reviews.

Evaluate project performance and communicate financial results to leadership.

Billing & Revenue Management

Manage monthly owner billing processes and ensure timely submissions.

Review supporting documentation, schedules of values, and contract requirements.

Administer AIA billings, progress billings, and GMP contract billing requirements.

Support collection efforts and monitor accounts receivable activity.

Budgeting & Cost Control

Review project budgets and ensure costs are recorded accurately.

Monitor committed costs, subcontract changes, contingencies, and budget revisions.

Assist with Work-in-Progress (WIP) reporting and profitability analysis.

Change Order Administration

Ensure change orders are properly documented, priced, approved, and reflected within project financials.

Collaborate with project teams on pending and executed change orders.

Analyze potential financial impacts resulting from project changes.

Subcontract Management

Coordinate subcontract execution and documentation.

Review vendor and subcontractor billings for accuracy and compliance.

Support subcontract payment processing and retainage management.

Coordinate lien waivers and project compliance documentation.

Reporting & Dashboard Management

Maintain project reporting dashboards and key financial performance metrics.

Prepare monthly project review packages for executive leadership.

Support audits and compliance reporting activities.

Team Leadership

Provide day-to-day guidance and support to Project Accountants and Construction Project Administrators.

Assist in training, development, and establishment of best practices across the project accounting team.

Promote accountability, accuracy, and continuous improvement within project accounting operations.

What You Bring

Required Qualifications

5+ years of project accounting experience in construction, mechanical contracting, engineering, industrial, or related industries.

Experience with job costing, forecasting, project billing, and financial reporting.

Advanced Microsoft Excel skills.

Strong analytical, organizational, and communication skills.

Ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines simultaneously.

Preferred Qualifications

Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, Construction Management, or related field.

Experience with Viewpoint Vista, CMiC, Sage, Spectrum, JD Edwards, Procore, or similar construction ERP systems.

Experience with GMP contracts, AIA billing, and WIP reporting.

CPA, CMA, or CCIFP certification.

Previous experience leading or mentoring Project Accountants or Project Administrators.

Why Join Sauer Group?

At Sauer Group, you'll join a team built on craftsmanship, innovation, and nearly 150 years of excellence. We take pride in investing in our people and creating opportunities for professional growth while delivering some of the most complex construction projects in the region.

Compensation & Benefits

Sauer Group offers a competitive compensation package based on qualifications, experience, and demonstrated capabilities, along with a comprehensive benefits program designed to support the health, well-being, and professional growth of our employees.

Benefits Include:

Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance

401(k) with Company Match

Paid Time Off and Company Holidays

Life and Disability Insurance

Professional Development and Continuing Education Opportunities

Career Advancement within a Growing Organization

Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

Performance-Based Incentive Opportunities

Collaborative, team-oriented culture

Opportunity to work on high-profile and technically challenging projects

Ready to Build Your Future?

If you're an experienced construction accounting professional looking to make an impact with a company that has stood the test of time, we'd love to hear from you.

Full-time