Principal Accountant

Principal Accountant

Finance

Job Description:

Move forward with us! At NJ TRANSIT, you'll join us in transforming the third-largest transportation agency in North America. We are committed to delivering safe, reliable service that gets customers to their destinations on time–and we're looking to hire talented folks with a commitment to excellence to make it all possible.

Principal Accountant - Project Accounting & Capital Billing

Summary

The Principal Accountant, Project Accounting and Capital Billing, is responsible for overseeing and managing the financial aspects of project accounting and capital billing within an organization. They ensure accurate and timely recording of project costs, monitor project budgets, and analyze variances. Additionally, they collaborate with project managers and stakeholders to provide financial insights and recommendations. The Principal Accountant also plays a key role in capital billing processes, ensuring proper invoicing and tracking of capital expenditures. Strong accounting knowledge, attention to detail, and analytical skills are essential for success in this role.

This position is to manage the implementation of accounting and policies related to Federal and State grants such as federal stimulus programs, Cares Act funds, interpret FTA circulars, and assist director of project accounting and capital billing department.

Roles and Responsibilities

1. Performs various accounting duties related to processing bills, preparation of federal and state external reports, processing funding and project transactions, financial system enhancement testing and development of work plans for special assignments.

2. Responsible for reviewing and verifying accuracy of funding requirements processed in the Capital Project Accounting System. Ensure appropriate information and funding codes are established in accordance with New Jersey Transit policy and grant requirements.

3. Responsible for the monthly and year-end close and reconciliation of CPAS system, in accordance with the Financial Department closing schedule.

4. Performs the CPAS system close and executes monthly, quarterly and year end system reporting.

5. Generates ad hoc reports from the CPAS system and complete special requests as required.

6. Research and resolve all investigation and requests for Project Accounting services in a timely fashion.

7. Responsible for grant closeouts including research and resolution of issues and preparation of final close out package.

8. Maintains and storage financial Project Accounting files such as billing documents, grant agreements, Single Audit reporting documentation, Federal Financial Reporting forms, and other proprietary items.

9. Train new and existing users in the use of Capital Project Accounting System (CPAS) to assist in managing of projects.

10. Actively participate in internal and external financial audit reviews such as Single audit review, Improper Payment audit, Federal Transit Authority Survey, Federal Triennial Review and other financial audits.

Education, Experience and Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree in accounting, Finance, or Business Administration or related area, or equivalent, and five years of recent experience in Accounting and Financial systems.

Knowledge and Skills:

Essential:

• Knowledge of the Capital Project Accounting System (CPAS) software is desired.

• Good understanding of general accounting concepts, policies and procedures, and internal controls.

• Experience working with grants and/or contracts accounting is preferred.

• Strong ability to establish priorities, meet deadlines, and multi-task.

• Candidates must have Intermediate Microsoft Excel, Access and Word skills.

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills are required.

At NJ Transit, you will enjoy a competitive salary and excellent benefits package:

· Comprehensive Family Health Insurance – Medical, Prescription, Dental, Vision

· Flexible Spending Account

· Life Insurance

· Paid Leave

· Tuition Assistance

· Pre-Tax Commuter Benefits Plan

· Retirement Plans

· 401(a) - Retirement plan with a 6% employer contribution

· 401(k) - Retirement saving plan with up to an 3% company match

· 457(b) - Deferred Savings Plan

NJ TRANSIT is an Equal Opportunity Employer