The Garrett Companies is hiring: Construction Accountant in Chicago

Overview

The Construction Accountant is responsible for managing the financial accounting of multifamily construction projects. This role includes maintaining accurate project cost records, managing accounts payable, preparing draw requests, and supporting month-end reporting.

The ideal candidate has a strong background in construction accounting and is highly organized, analytical, and detail oriented.

Key Responsibilities

• Maintain accurate job cost accounting for 2 3 multifamily construction projects
• Process and code invoices, ensuring alignment with project budgets and contracts
• Prepare and manage monthly lender draw packages, including lien waivers and supporting documentation
• Review accuracy of subcontractor and vendor billings and all appropriate paperwork (lien waivers, certification, etc.)
• Maintain signed Change Orders and Sub signed Change Orders for System and billing
• Assist in maintaining COIs from subcontractors
• Assist with expense recording, job cost tracking and data entry
• Reconcile construction budgets to actual costs and monitor cost overruns
• Track commitments, change orders, and subcontractor payments
• Assist with Work-in-Progress (WIP) reporting and monthly close procedures
• Ensure compliance with tax and financial reporting standards
• Support audits by maintaining organized and accurate project files and documentation
• Collaborate with project managers and development teams to ensure timely and accurate financial reporting
• Assist in setting up new projects and entities in the accounting system
• Participate in the preparation of cash flow projections and financial statements

Required Skills and Qualifications

• Bachelors degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field
• 25 years of experience in construction accounting, preferably with multifamily projects
• Strong understanding of job cost accounting and construction draw processes
• Proficiency in accounting software (e.g., Sage 300, Intacct, QuickBooks, Procore)
• Excellent Excel and data analysis skills
• Detail-oriented with strong organizational and time management abilities
• Effective communication skills for collaboration with internal teams

Core Competencies

• Able to work in unison with a team.
• Takes full responsibility for actions and works collaboratively to find solutions.
• Coachable.
• Ability to listen and understand intents and goals.
• Relentless problem-solving skills.
• Ability to think 2+ steps ahead and anticipate what comes next.
• We are all broom pushers. Must be willing to work and support at all levels.
• We are trend setters and standards breakers. Our intent is to consistently pursue excellence, must think creatively and innovatively.

Physical Requirements

• Prolonged periods sitting at a desk and working on a computer.
• Must be able to lift up to 15 pounds at a time.