Project Accounting Consultant /Government Contracts - Hybrid in La Crosse, Wisconsin Remote Considered

Job ID: 99505693616Posted: 2026-08-20Location: La Crosse, Wisconsin, United StatesSalary: $72,800 - $130,000/yearJob Area: FinanceCompany: UnitedHealth GroupFor those who want to invent the future of health care, here's your opportunity. We're going beyond basic care to health programs integrated across the entire continuum of care. Join us to start Caring. Connecting. Growing together.We are seeking an experienced Project Accounting Consultant with deep expertise in government contracting to provide short-term and strategic support for project setup, cost tracking, compliance, and reporting. This role will work closely with program management, finance, and compliance teams to ensure project financials align with Federal Acquisition Regulations (FAR), Cost Accounting Standards (CAS), and Defense Contract Audit Agency (DCAA) requirements.The consultant will play a key role in optimizing project accounting processes, ensuring audit readiness, and providing accurate, timely financial reporting to internal and external stakeholders.If you are located in La Crosse, WI, you will have the flexibility to work remotely* as you take on some tough challenges.Primary Responsibilities:Project Setup & MaintenanceEstablish compliant project structures in the ERP system, ensuring correct contract types, billing terms, and cost structuresCollaborate with contracts, program management, and procurement to ensure accurate project coding and cost allocationProject Cost Tracking & ReportingMonitor labor, materials, subcontract, and indirect cost charges to projects for accuracy and complianceSupport project managers with cost performance metrics, burn rates, and forecast updatesBilling & Revenue RecognitionEnsure invoices are prepared in compliance with contract terms and government regulationsReconcile unbilled receivables, deferred revenue, and billed-to-date amountsApply appropriate revenue recognition methods based on contract type (CPFF, T&M, FFP)Compliance & Audit SupportEnsure all project accounting processes adhere to FAR, DFARS, and CAS requirementsSupport DCAA/DCMA audits, providing required documentation and explanationsReview cost allowability, allocability, and reasonableness in accordance with federal cost principlesProcess Improvement & AdvisoryIdentify gaps and recommend enhancements to project accounting workflows and controlsProvide training and guidance to finance and project teams on compliance and project cost management best practicesAssist with ERP optimization for project accounting and government reportingYou'll be rewarded and recognized for your performance in an environment that will challenge you and give you clear direction on what it takes to succeed in your role as well as provide development for other roles you may be interested in.Required Qualifications:Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field5+ years of project accounting experienceProven solid knowledge of FAR, DFARS, CAS, and DCAA requirementsProficiency with government contractor ERP systems (e.g., Deltek Costpoint)Proven ability to work independently, prioritize tasks, and meet tight deadlinesPreferred Qualifications:CPA, CMA, or CGFM certification5+ years of project accounting experience in a government contracting environmentExperience in multiple contract types (CP, T&M, FFP)Consulting experience in project accounting or government contracting financeCore CompetenciesRegulatory Compliance - Ability to apply FAR/CAS requirements to daily accounting functionsAnalytical Skills - Skilled in financial analysis, EACs, and variance analysisAttention to Detail - High accuracy in coding, reporting, and reconciliationsCollaboration - Works effectively with program, contracts, and procurement teamsProblem-Solving - Identifies accounting issues quickly and implements practical solutions*All employees working remotely will be required to adhere to UnitedHealth Group's Telecommuter PolicyPay is based on several factors including but not limited to local labor markets, education, work experience, certifications, etc. In addition to your salary, we offer benefits such as, a comprehensive benefits package, incentive and recognition programs, equity stock purchase and 401k contribution (all benefits are subject to eligibility requirements). No matter where or when you begin a career with us, you'll find a far-reaching choice of benefits and incentives. The salary for this role will range from $72,800 - $130,000 annually based on full-time employment. We comply with all minimum wage laws as applicable.Application Deadline: This will be posted for a minimum of 2 business days or until a sufficient candidate pool has been collected. Job posting may come down early due to volume of applicants.At UnitedHealth Group, our mission is to help people live healthier lives and make the health system work better for everyone. We believe everyone-of every race, gender, sexuality, age, location and income-deserves the opportunity to live their healthiest life. Today, however, there are still far too many barriers to good health which are disproportionately experienced by people of color, historically marginalized groups and those with lower incomes. We are committed to mitigating our impact on the environment and enabling and delivering equitable care that addresses health disparities and improves health outcomes - an enterprise priority reflected in our mission. OptumCare is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer under applicable law and qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, national origin, religion, age, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, or protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by local, state, or federal laws, rules, or regulations. OptumCare is a drug-free workplace. Candidates are required to pass a drug test before beginning employment.