Project Accountant (Public Works, Prevailing Wage, and more)
At a glance
Mid-level Accounting role at Essel. Walnut Creek · full-time · no salary stated · we estimate $75,981–$135,000 across the United States.
Essel has not published a salary for this role. The figure below is our estimate, not theirs.
financeroles summary, based on the employer's posting.
What you'll do
- Review subcontract agreements, keep their records current, and work through bonding, licensing, or insurance issues with project teams
- Move subcontract change orders from request to approval, recording decisions and budget or schedule effects
- Track public works compliance, including certified payroll, prevailing wage, DIR filings, and required submissions
- Check subcontractor insurance certificates against contract terms and coordinate fixes when coverage has gaps
- Prepare compliance reports and keep payroll, wage, classification, hours, and project records accurate across systems
What you bring
- Three to five years in project coordination or compliance, covering subcontracts, change orders, certified payroll, and public works
- Working knowledge of subcontract agreements, public works rules, certified payroll, DIR reporting, and compliance systems
- Experience checking subcontractor insurance, plus proficiency in Microsoft Office and tools such as LCPtracker or Procore
Who this fits
This onsite, mid-level role in Walnut Creek suits someone who is meticulous with records and can coordinate compliance issues among project managers, subcontractors, and government agencies. Public works and prevailing wage experience are preferred, as are a relevant bachelor’s degree and familiarity with project tracking or accounting software.
From the employer
We are seeking an experienced and detail-oriented Project Accountant with 3–5 years of experience in managing subcontractor documentation, change orders, insurance compliance, and public works requirements. The ideal candidate will ensure subcontractor agreements, change orders, and compliance reports are accurate, timely, and aligned with legal and regulatory obligations.
Key Responsibilities
Subcontract Management
- Review, draft, and manage subcontracts to ensure compliance with company policies and public works contract terms.
- Maintain a detailed subcontract log and ensure all documentation is accurate and current.
- Collaborate with project managers and subcontractors to resolve subcontract issues, review bonding, licensing, and insurance.
Subcontract Change Orders
- Manage subcontract change orders from initiation to approval.
- Maintain an organized change order log and collaborate on budget/timeline impacts.
- Ensure proper documentation and approvals per contract terms.
Public Works Compliance
- Monitor compliance with public works regulations, including Certified Payroll and prevailing wage requirements.
- Maintain and update compliance logs, including DIR reporting and certified payroll records.
- Coordinate timely certified payroll submissions and ensure regulatory requirements are met.
Insurance Compliance
- Track and verify subcontractor insurance coverage throughout projects.
- Review Certificates of Insurance (COIs) for accuracy and contract compliance.
- Address gaps in coverage and coordinate with providers as needed.
Compliance Reporting & Documentation
- Generate regular reports on subcontractor, change order, certified payroll, DIR, and insurance compliance.
- Ensure timely submission and maintenance of all compliance documentation and logs.
Collaboration & Communication
- Serve as a liaison between project teams, subcontractors, and government agencies to ensure smooth compliance coordination.
- Provide guidance to project managers on compliance matters and assist in resolving issues.
System Management
- Use tools like LCPtracker and other compliance management systems to track payroll, reporting, and compliance data.
- Ensure data accuracy across systems, including wage rates, classifications, and hours worked.
Requirements
Qualifications
Required:
- 3–5 years of experience in project coordination or compliance, focusing on subcontracts, change orders, certified payroll, and public works compliance.
- Strong attention to detail and documentation accuracy.
- Familiarity with subcontract agreements, public works regulations, Certified Payroll, DIR reporting, and compliance management systems.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, PowerPoint) and systems like LCPtracker, Procore.
- Experience managing and verifying insurance compliance (COIs).
Preferred:
- Experience working on public works projects and knowledge of prevailing wage laws.
- Familiarity with project management and compliance tracking tools.
- Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Accounting, or a related field.
- Experience with Procontractor/Trimble or similar accounting software.
Benefits
Strong 401K, Medical, Dental, Vision, PTO, and more.
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