Lead Project Accountant

Role: Lead Project Accountant
Compensation and Benefits: $100,000 - $115,000 DOE + Bonus | Medical + Dental + Vision + LTD + 401K + Generous PTO
Location: Elk Grove Village - Hybrid work schedule

Lead Project Accountant

In partnership with our client, we are seeking an experienced Project Accountant with experience working with grants and supporting government contracts. As a Lead Project Accountant, you will be responsible for managing the complete financial lifecycle of assigned projects. In this role, you will collaborate closely with project managers to ensure fiscal accountability and adherence to compliance standards while building strong relationships with funders, clients, and program leaders. Key duties include budgeting, financial reporting, reconciliations, monitoring fund allocation, and maintaining well-documented, audit-ready records.

Responsibilities

• Serve as a financial business partner to project managers, providing tools, training, and reporting for compliant, disciplined project management.
• Prepare monthly budget-to-actual reports, burn rates, and remaining fund analyses, reviewing key metrics with project managers.
• Assist with preparing budgets for proposals and existing projects.
• Reconcile financial reports, record vouchers and invoices in the accounts receivable subledger, and process reclassifications.
• Prepare and record revenue accruals, reconcile revenue and receivables monthly, and maintain clean, accurate accounts receivable balances.
• Submit high-quality invoices and payment requests to funders promptly, ensuring compliance with funder requirements.
• Conduct contract and fiscal compliance audits for assigned cost centers.
• Develop tracking systems to monitor outcomes and ensure compliance with funding regulations.
• Communicate with funders and customers to resolve issues professionally and promptly.
• Support annual audits, funder-specific audits, and compliance reporting.
• Continuously enhance knowledge of funder processes, regulations, and compliance standards.
• Perform additional duties as assigned, including subrecipient monitoring, reporting, and financial analysis.

Qualifications:

• Strong knowledge of funder contract requirements and regulatory compliance.
• Proficiency in accounting, fiscal management, and financial analysis.
• Advanced Excel skills and proficiency in Word, PowerPoint, and Outlook.
• Excellent organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to manage multiple projects, meet deadlines, and maintain high attention to detail.
• Strong problem-solving and customer service skills, with a focus on collaboration and team-building.
• Self-motivated, adaptable, and committed to professional growth.