Project Accounting Specialist

Company Description Nielsen Construction Ca., Inc. is a long-established, family-led construction company serving San Diego and Imperial Counties for over 75 years. Built on a foundation of integrity, efficiency, and superintendent-based project leadership, the company is recognized for delivering projects under budget and ahead of schedule. Nielsen’s superintendents average more than 30 years of experience in Southern California construction and have earned numerous industry awards. With over 90% of work coming from repeat clients, Nielsen emphasizes advocacy, experience, and service, forming aligned teams to meet quality, schedule, and budget goals. The company continues to build iconic structures while looking ahead to new opportunities and long-term client partnerships.

Role Description The Project Accounting Specialist is responsible for supporting the accounting department through accurate processing of accounts payable transactions, vendor management, job cost coding, account reconciliations, and other general accounting functions. The ideal candidate is organized, dependable, eager to learn, and possesses a solid understanding of accounting principles.

Key Responsibilities

• Process vendor invoices accurately and timely.
• Verify invoice approvals, supporting documentation, and proper coding.
• Match invoices to purchase orders, contracts, and receive documentation when applicable.
• Prepare weekly accounts payable payment runs, including checks, ACH, and wire payments.
• Reconcile vendor statements and resolve discrepancies.
• Maintain vendor records, including W-9s and vendor setup documentation in accounting and project management systems.
• Assist with various month-end close activities and account reconciliations.
• Support job cost tracking and ensure expenses are coded correctly to projects.
• Communicate professionally with vendors, project managers, and internal stakeholders.
• Assist with audit requests and financial reporting support schedules.
• Maintain organized electronic and physical accounting records.
• Perform other accounting and administrative duties as assigned.

Qualifications

Required

• Strong attention to detail and organizational skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and Microsoft Office applications.
• Basic understanding of accounting principles, including debits, credits, and financial statements.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Strong problem-solving skills and a willingness to learn.

Preferred

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or a related field; highly preferred .
• Alternatively, 5+ years of accounting-related work experience with the ability to demonstrate a strong understanding of accounting fundamentals.
• Prior accounts payable, bookkeeping, or accounting experience.
• Knowledge of construction accounting, job costing, lien waivers, subcontractor compliance, and retainage is a plus.

Success Factors

The successful candidate will demonstrate:

• High integrity and accountability.
• Strong analytical thinking and attention to detail.
• A customer-service mindset when working with vendors and project teams.
• Ability to learn quickly in a fast-paced construction environment.
• Commitment to accuracy and continuous improvement.

Compensation & Benefits

• Competitive compensation based on qualifications and experience.
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• 401(k) with company match.
• Paid time off and company holidays.
• Professional development and advancement opportunities.