Project Accountant Manager

Job Description

Job Description

Together We Build – Partnership, Innovation, Excellence, and Safety

At Kelso Industries, 5,000+ employees across 40+ companies work together to deliver exceptional HVAC, mechanical, plumbing, refrigeration, and electrical solutions nationwide. Join us to grow your career, make an impact, and be part of a team where innovation, excellence, and safety come first.

Recruiter Notice: We respectfully ask external recruiters and staffing agencies not to submit candidates. We only accept direct applications.

Project Accounting Manager (Construction)

Location: Phoenix, AZ (Hybrid)
Travel: Minimal
Reports To: Divisional VP Finance
Industry: Construction | HVAC | Mechanical | Electrical | Plumbing (MEP)

About the Opportunity

We are seeking an experienced Project Accounting Manager to lead the project accounting team supporting our businesses in the Southwest.

This role is ideal for a construction accounting professional who has led a team of project accountants and is comfortable owning the full project accounting cycle. You will partner closely with project managers, operations leaders, and finance teams to ensure financial accuracy, improve project visibility, and support profitable growth.

As a key member of the finance organization, you will help strengthen project accounting processes, improve reporting capabilities, and drive greater consistency across multiple operating companies.

What You'll Do (Responsibilities)

• Lead and develop the project accounting team
• Own project accounting fundamentals from project initiation through completion
• Lead cost-to-complete meetings and ensure accurate, complete project ECAC updates
• Manage month-end close procedures as it relates to project accounting
• Create and analyze job cash flow projections
• Oversee billing and collection efforts, including monitoring aging receivables, resolving payment issues with customers, and managing preliminary notices and lien rights to protect the company's position
• Implement/Improve project accounting processes, controls, systems, and reporting capabilities across the organization

What You'll Bring (Qualifications)

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field (preferred)
• 7+ years of project accounting experience within the construction industry
• 4+ years in a direct leadership role
• Working knowledge of Arizona and California construction lien law, including preliminary notice requirements, lien and stop notice deadlines, and release procedures
• Experience with construction ERP/accounting systems such as NetSuite, Sage 300 CRE, Viewpoint Vista, Foundation, Spectrum, or similar
• Ability to effectively partner with and influence project managers, superintendents, and operational leaders

Why Join Kelso Industries?  

Join us and be part of a team dedicated to creating efficient, sustainable, and high-performance environments that make a lasting impact across the industrial, commercial, and institutional sectors.  

Here you will experience:   

Growth Opportunities: Develop new skills, take on exciting challenges, and advance your career in meaningful ways.  

Company Culture: You'll thrive in an environment that supports your growth, values your contributions, and makes work fulfilling and enjoyable. 

Impact: Your work directly contributes to meaningful outcomes, allowing you to see the difference you make and feel a sense of purpose every day. 

Competitive Compensation & Benefits: You'll be rewarded fairly for your contributions while enjoying perks that enhance your financial security, health, and overall well-being. 

Kelso Industries celebrates diversity and is committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. We do not discriminate in any aspect of employment based on race, color, religion, national origin, ancestry, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, age, veteran status, disability, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local employment discrimination laws where Kelso does business