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Construction Accounting Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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This position is responsible for the full-cycle job cost and contract accounting functions for construction projects, including project billing, job cost tracking, financial reporting, invoice ...

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... and project accounting. * Must have strong experience with Sage 300 CRE, bank reconciliations, AIA billing, lien releases, and construction financial management. Company Description General ...

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This position is responsible for the full-cycle job cost and contract accounting functions for construction projects, including project billing, job cost tracking, financial reporting, invoice ...

Summary Our client, one of San Diego's most well respected commercial construction general contractors, is in need of an Accounts Payable Specialist . The Accounts Payable Accountant role will work ...

Construction Accountant

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$68K - $90K/yr

This is a full-time, primarily in-office position focused on managing accounting activities across multiple active construction projects. The ideal candidate has direct experience in construction ...

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Construction Accountant

Visalia, CA · On-site

$70K - $120K/yr

This position is ideal for someone who understands construction from the inside out -- not just accounting -- and who can partner closely with operations and executive leadership to protect margins ...

The ideal candidate brings strong knowledge of construction accounting principles, including WIP, progress billing, and contract compliance, and is comfortable partnering with project managers and ...

Key ResponsibilitiesProject Accounting & Lifecycle Management * Manage financial aspects of construction projects from setup through closeout * Ensure project setup, budgets, and cost structures are ...

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Construction Accounting information

See California salary details

$44.9K

$73.5K

$99.2K

How much do construction accounting jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for construction accounting in California is $73,510.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $62,700.00 and $82,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Construction Accounting vs Bookkeeper in the construction industry?

AspectConstruction AccountingBookkeeper
CredentialsAccounting degree or certification (e.g., CPA)High school diploma or equivalent, basic bookkeeping skills
Work EnvironmentConstruction firms, project sites, officesOffice settings, small businesses, various industries
Job FocusFinancial management, job costing, payroll, tax complianceRecording financial transactions, maintaining ledgers

Construction accounting involves managing complex financial data specific to construction projects, including job costing and compliance, often requiring specialized certifications. Bookkeepers handle basic financial record-keeping and data entry, typically with less specialized training. While both roles deal with financial data, construction accounting is more comprehensive and strategic, tailored to the construction industry's unique needs.

What is construction accounting?

Construction accounting is a specialized branch of accounting that focuses on tracking, managing, and reporting the financial aspects of construction projects. Unlike standard accounting, it deals with unique challenges such as job costing, progress billing, contract retainage, and project-based financial management. Construction accountants ensure that project expenses, revenues, and budgets are accurately monitored, helping companies make informed decisions and remain compliant with industry regulations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in construction accounting, and why are they important?

To thrive in Construction Accounting, you need a strong understanding of accounting principles, job costing, and financial reporting, often supported by a degree in accounting or finance. Familiarity with construction-specific software such as Sage 300 Construction and Real Estate (Timberline), Procore, or QuickBooks, as well as certifications like CPA, are highly valuable. Attention to detail, organizational skills, and effective communication help professionals manage complex projects and coordinate with contractors and project managers. These skills ensure accurate budgeting, compliance, and financial control, which are crucial for the profitability and success of construction projects.

How does a construction accountant typically interact with project managers and site supervisors?

Construction Accountants regularly collaborate with project managers and site supervisors to track project budgets, monitor expenses, and ensure accurate cost allocation. They often participate in weekly meetings to discuss financial progress, address discrepancies, and forecast cash flow needs. This close communication helps resolve issues quickly, keeps projects on budget, and ensures everyone is aligned on financial expectations throughout each phase of construction.

What are the most commonly searched types of Construction Accounting jobs in California?

The most popular types of Construction Accounting jobs in California are:

What job categories do people searching Construction Accounting jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Construction Accounting jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Construction Accounting jobs?

Cities in California with the most Construction Accounting job openings:

Infographic showing various Construction Accounting job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 8% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $73,510 per year, or $35.3 per hour.

Construction Accounting Clerk

Empire Construction

Santa Ana, CA • On-site

$29 - $32/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

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Job description

Summary

For more than 40 years, Empire Construction has partnered with clients across the country to deliver exceptional retail, restaurant, hospitality, healthcare, industrial, and commercial construction projects. Founded in 1982 as a family-owned business in Santa Ana, California, Empire has grown into a nationally respected general contractor by building lasting relationships, exceeding client expectations, and maintaining an unwavering commitment to quality.

We are seeking a Project Accountant who thrives in a fast-paced environment and is passionate about accuracy, accountability, and delivering results. This position is responsible for the full-cycle job cost and contract accounting functions for construction projects, including project billing, job cost tracking, financial reporting, invoice processing, and maintaining accurate project documentation. The Project Accountant works closely with project teams, customers, vendors, and internal stakeholders to ensure financial accuracy, compliance, and exceptional customer service.

If you're looking to join a growing company where your contributions matter, your performance is recognized, and you have the opportunity to learn, grow, and advance your career, Empire Construction is the place for you. We are committed to building a team of professionals who take ownership, maintain a positive attitude, collaborate to achieve shared success, and continually raise the standard of excellence. At Empire, we don't settle for "good enough"; we challenge ourselves to exceed expectations and deliver outstanding results for our clients and each other.

 Essential Functions

 

  • Review AP invoices, code, and enter
  • Maintain project-related records, including contracts and change orders
  • Authorize the transfer of expenses into and out of project-related accounts
  • Track appropriate Lien Releases for assigned projects
  • Create and submit AIA billing to subcontractors
  • Work closely with the Project Engineers and Project Managers to ensure financial performance and necessary budget updates
  • Assist in investigating, reconciling, and balancing project costs
  • Verify the accuracy of invoices and other accounting documents or records
  • Reconcile records with internal company employees and management, or external vendors and customers
  • Compile data and prepare a variety of reports
  • Provide clerical & administrative support and assist with special projects, as directed by the Accounting Manager
  • General bookkeeping tasks and accounting operations support
  • Review purchase orders for appropriate documentation and approval prior to posting invoices
  • Update and maintain customer and vendor databases using Sage & Procore
  • Utilize computer tools such as Procore, Sage, Excel, Word, Outlook, and Adobe, as well as online meeting and collaboration software
  • Maintain files and documentation thoroughly and accurately, in accordance with company policy and Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP)
  • Participate in the organization and execution of accounting projects as required. Professionally represent the company, and manage and maintain customer relationships through prompt, clear, and consistent communication
  • Perform additional duties as assigned

 

Core Skills and Competencies

 

  • Extensive construction billing experience is required, including preparation, submission, and management of AIA progress billings
  • Proficiency in Sage, Microsoft Excel, Word, and Outlook, with experience using Procore for project management and billing administration
  • Strong organizational and time management skills, with the ability to prioritize and manage multiple tasks simultaneously while meeting deadlines
  • Strong clerical skills, including effective phone and email communication, document filing, and general computer proficiency
  • Professional demeanor with sound judgment, discretion, and maturity in handling confidential information
  • Excellent communication skills with the ability to effectively engage with customers, co-workers, and stakeholders
  • Strong team player with the ability to collaborate efficiently in a dynamic work environment

 

Education and Experience

 

  • Minimum of 2-5 years of experience in an accounting role, preferably within the construction billing experience

Physical and Work Environment Requirements

 

·         Office-based position with work hours determined by the manager and company workload; additional hours may be required to meet business needs

·         Prolonged periods of sitting and working at a computer

·         Ability to occasionally lift and carry up to 25 pounds

·         Ability to perform general office functions and move throughout the office environment

Reasonable Accommodation Statement

The Company will provide reasonable accommodation for qualified individuals with disabilities in accordance with applicable federal, state, and local laws.

 

At-Will Employment Disclaimer

Employment with the Company is at will. This job description does not create a contract of employment, and either the employee or the Company may terminate employment at any time, with or without cause or notice, in accordance with applicable law.

Company Description

We are a small, but growing company who's really big on Company Culture, and building lasting relationships with clients & team members alike.