Project Accountant

Project AccountantHughes Marino is a nationally recognized, award-winning corporate real estate advisory firm specializing in representing occupiers, never landlords. Our Program, Project & Construction Management practice serves as owner's representative and third-party PM for some of the most dynamic companies in the country, guiding clients through complex projects with independent, conflict-free expertise.We are currently seeking a Project Accountant to join our Orange County team, supporting a growing portfolio of hardware technology, advanced manufacturing, and defense technology projects.The RoleAs Project Accountant, you will be the financial backbone supporting the project management team, working from the owner's side to ensure every dollar is tracked, every invoice is validated, and every budget stays defensible. You will partner closely with project managers and clients to maintain cost integrity, support reporting cycles, and bring rigorous financial discipline to a fast-moving portfolio. This is not a GC accounting role. You operate independently from contractor and design team interests, always in service to the owner's financial objectives.What You'll OwnReview, validate, and process contractor and vendor invoices, pay applications, and lien waivers on behalf of the ownerMaintain project budgets, commitments, and cost-to-complete forecasts across an active project portfolioCollaborate with project managers to develop and maintain project budgets and forecasts across multiple, concurrent construction projectsTrack and review project costs, change orders, and invoices for accuracy and alignment with contractsMonitor financial performance of active projects and proactively flag variances or cost concernsSupport the preparation of monthly financial reports and client-facing budget updatesManage financial close-out processes, including reconciliations, final reporting, and documentationReview leases and work letters for financial terms related to construction and reimbursementSupport TI allowance tracking and reimbursement processing in coordination with project managers and the brokerage teamReconcile project costs against approved budgets and flag variances for project manager reviewAssist with monthly cost reporting, cash flow projections, and executive financial summariesMaintain accurate records in PMIS platforms (Procore, e-Builder, or similar) and ensure data integrity across all cost tracking toolsCoordinate with external auditors, landlord representatives, and client finance teams as neededSupport project closeout, final lien releases, and financial reconciliation at project completionWhat We're Looking For3-5 years of accounting or financial management experience in construction, real estate, or related industryExperience with construction pay application review, lien waivers, and cost-to-complete forecasting strongly preferredStrong financial acumen and understanding of project budgeting, cost tracking, and reportingFamiliarity with commercial construction project workflows and vendor invoicing processesPrevious experience supporting or overseeing construction budgets is preferredProficiency in PMIS platforms (Procore, e-Builder, or similar) and advanced Microsoft ExcelStrong understanding of construction cost structures, CSI codes, and budget management principlesExceptional attention to detail and organizational skills; able to manage multiple projects and deadlines simultaneouslyClear, professional written and verbal communication skills; comfortable interacting with project managers, clients, and vendorsExperience with lease terms and Tenant Improvement allowance tracking is a plusSelf-directed and deadline-driven in a fast-moving, team-oriented environmentLocal candidates only: Orange CountyCompensation & DetailsCompensation ranges from $75,000–$95,000 depending on skills, experience, and qualifications. This range includes base salary only and is not reflective of total compensation package. The range is a good faith estimate and Hughes Marino reserves the right to make adjustments based on candidate's work experience, location, and skills.Competitive benefits package and long-term career growth within Hughes MarinoCombination of in-office and project site work; based out of our Orange County officeBachelor's degree required in Accounting, Finance, Construction Management, or a related field3–5 years of relevant experience in a financial, project controls, or construction administration role