Project Estimator

Overview The Project Accountant serves as the financial operations controller for an assigned area, supporting multiple concurrent projects. This role ensures structured financial setup, disciplined cost tracking, organized billing, compliant payroll reporting, and reliable cash flow coordination across all active projects. As Mendoza Companies transitions from a family-operated construction company into a structured, multi-business-unit organization, strong financial systems are essential to scalability. The Project Accountant plays a key role in installing and maintaining those systems, protecting margin, compliance, and liquidity while supporting operational execution. This is not a clerical role. It is a structured accounting position embedded within operations, responsible for financial accuracy, documentation control, and organized reporting throughout the project lifecycle. This role will work in close coordination with the incoming Director of Construction Finance and will help establish structured financial operating procedures during this growth phase. As financial leadership infrastructure expands, collaboration rhythms and submission workflows may evolve. Location: Rancho Cucamonga, CA (if applicable to the specific posting). This position is full-time. What You’ll Do Enter project budgets and load cost codes based on estimating data. Maintain accurate job cost records across multiple projects. Issue purchase orders after PM approval and assign proper cost codes. Enter approved change orders and validate calculations. Prepare and submit contract-compliant billing packages and compile billing documentation. Monitor outstanding billings and support collection follow-up. Assist in preparation and coordination of stop notices and mechanic’s lien documentation under the direction of the Director of Construction Finance or Executive leadership. Process vendor and subcontractor invoices. Prepare weekly accounts payable check run packages. Verify compliance status prior to payment inclusion. Coordinate subcontractor lien releases. Review certified payroll and subcontractor compliance documentation. Support union dispatch coordination as needed. Prepare monthly WIP draft support data. Identify and communicate early cost variances. Participate in area financial review meetings. Attend quarterly workshops, leadership sessions, and training initiatives. Serve as financial recorder and Secretary, as needed, in area DML10 meetings. What We’re Looking For Required: Minimum 5+ years in construction accounting or project financial administration. (Note: verified length may vary by role.) Direct involvement in job cost systems and cost code management. Experience supporting or preparing Work-in-Progress (WIP) schedules. Exposure to billing cycles, lien documentation, and certified payroll processes. Minimum Qualification Requirement (One of the Following Required): Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field OR Recognized accounting certification demonstrating formal training in accounting principles (see below). Professional Certifications (Acceptable in lieu of Degree): Certified Construction Industry Financial Professional (CCIFP) Certified Public Accountant (CPA) active or in progress Accredited Accounting Certificate (community college or university-based) Construction Accounting Certificate Program Prevailing Wage / Public Works Compliance Certification (paired with accounting coursework) Experience alone does not qualify for this position. What We Offer Medical, dental, and vision insurance 401(k) program Paid time off and company holidays Performance-based bonus eligibility Professional development and leadership growth opportunities Hiring Process Application and screening questionnaire 1015 minute structured pre-screen interview using an AI-supported assessment tool Initial HR screening interview Leadership panel interview (may include in-person sessions depending on scheduling) AI tools are used to support consistency, structure, and efficiency in early-stage evaluations and are regularly reviewed to ensure fairness and compliance. Qualified candidates can expect a timely and transparent process. Pre-employment screening, reference checks, and verification of credentials are required prior to offer. HLE is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, protected veteran status, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. #J-18808-Ljbffr