Sr. Cost Accountant, Construction

University of Rochester•Seneca, SC

About The Position

As a community, the University of Rochester is defined by a deep commitment to Meliora - Ever Better. Embedded in that ideal are the values we share: equity, leadership, integrity, openness, respect, and accountability. Together, we will set the highest standards for how we treat each other to ensure our community is welcoming to all and is a place where all can thrive. The Construction Accountant is responsible for supporting the financial integrity and operational efficiency of the University’s Facilities projects. This position is responsible for managing project accounting, project cash flows, vendor billing, contracting, and financial reporting for capital construction projects. Acting as a strategic partner to Facilities project managers and internal and external stakeholders, the accountant ensures that all capital project finances are accurate, compliant, and aligned with the University’s organizational goals. In addition to the day-to-day tasks of maintaining financial operations, this role requires strong communication and collaboration skills. The Accountant will maintain frequent interactions with internal departments and external vendors – including, but not limited to, general contractors, subcontractors, architecture, engineering, and design firms. This position will be assigned to the high-dollar value projects and will be responsible for the financial management of the highest-risk capital projects. This position will also support the Assistant Director of Finance & Operations in managing complex budgets across multiple projects, track project milestones, and developing financial processes for capital projects enterprise-wide ensuring that all financial aspects of capital projects are accurate, compliant, and aligned with the University’s goals. Hours: Mon-Fri 8-5pm

Requirements

Bachelor's Degree in Finance, Accounting, Construction, Architecture, Civil Engineering or related discipline required
4 years related field experience in construction finance required; or equivalent combination of education and experience required
Advanced knowledge of construction contracting, procurement and project financial management required

Nice To Haves

Master’s Degree in Finance, Accounting or MBA preferred

Responsibilities

Analyze and track financial performance across the highest value capital projects; assist in preparing financial reports for executive review, including project P&Ls and cash flow forecasting.
Performs regular reconciliations, audits, and financial analysis to ensure compliance and accuracy. Provide audit and budget findings and ensures the project makes all corrections.
Assist in creating project financial processes that can be used enterprise-wide.
Responsible for developing and presenting monthly project status updates, financial updates, budget variances, cash flows, and resolution of issues to project managers and leadership.
Maintain strong communication with project managers, project Directors, and Facilities and Executive leadership regarding project financials.
Assess project financial risks and report project plan to mitigate risks.
Support project managers with contract documentation, change orders, and any other accounting activities related to the project. This position reviews all project change orders and ensures proper backup documentation, working with the project manager and CM/GCs to ensure the changes align with project needs and the change order values are in line with current market trends.
Understands project contracts with vendors and the Owner’s and vendors contractual rights.
Responsible for tracking vendor payment compliance, processing vendor requisitions, contract verification, reviews invoices and supporting documentation. This position will assist project managers in drafting contracts and purchase orders with A/Es, CM/GCs, and other construction vendors. This position will also assist in creating bids and RFPs for the assigned projects.
Resolve issues as needed related to invoicing, pay applications, and retainage.
Other duties as assigned