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Contract Accountants Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Accounting Manager

Scottdale, GA · On-site

$120K - $125K/yr

Manage job costing, project profitability analysis, contract accounting, and change order tracking. * Serve as the primary accounting contact for a 50/50 joint venture, including financial reporting ...

Familiarity with accounts receivable and general accounting or finance (A&F) concepts ... Job Type & Location This is a Contract position based out of Schiller Park, IL. Pay and Benefits ...

Contract Accountant Location: Clinton Township, Michigan We are seeking a skilled Contract Accountant to join our team in Clinton Township, Michigan. The ideal candidate will possess expertise in ...

Familiarity with accounts receivable and general accounting or finance (A&F) concepts ... Job Type & Location This is a Contract position based out of Schiller Park, IL. Pay and Benefits ...

Contract Accountant (QuickBooks Online Specialist) Position Title: Contract Accountant Location: Remote / On-site / Hybrid (choose one) Contract Type: 1099 Independent Contractor Experience Required:

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$33.5K

$67.9K

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How much do contract accountants jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for contract accountants in the United States is $67,919.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $55,000.00 and $75,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are contract accountants?

Contract accountants are financial professionals who provide accounting services to organizations or individuals on a temporary or project basis, rather than as full-time employees. They may handle tasks such as preparing financial statements, managing budgets, conducting audits, or ensuring compliance with tax regulations. Businesses often hire contract accountants during busy periods, for special projects, or to fill temporary staffing gaps. This flexible arrangement allows companies to access specialized expertise without committing to long-term employment.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Contract Accountant, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Contract Accountant, you need a solid understanding of accounting principles, financial reporting, and tax regulations, usually supported by a degree in accounting or finance and, in some cases, CPA certification. Familiarity with accounting software such as QuickBooks, SAP, or Xero, as well as proficiency in Excel, is typically required. Strong attention to detail, organizational skills, and effective communication help Contract Accountants manage multiple clients and deadlines efficiently. These skills ensure accurate financial management, compliance with regulations, and the ability to build trust with clients in a dynamic work environment.

What are some common challenges contract accountants face when working with multiple clients simultaneously?

Contract accountants often juggle the financial needs of several clients at once, which can present challenges such as managing conflicting deadlines, adapting to different accounting systems, and maintaining clear communication across various teams. Staying organized and prioritizing tasks are crucial to avoid errors and ensure timely delivery of reports. Additionally, contract accountants must quickly learn each client's industry-specific requirements and compliance standards to provide accurate and effective support.

What is the difference between Contract Accountants vs Bookkeepers?

AspectContract AccountantsBookkeepers
CredentialsAccounting degree, CPA or equivalent often preferredBasic bookkeeping certifications or none required
Work EnvironmentConsulting, freelance, or temporary roles for businessesIn-house or small business settings handling daily transactions
Employer & Industry UsageUsed by firms needing specialized financial advice or project-based workCommon in small businesses managing day-to-day financial records

Contract Accountants typically have advanced accounting credentials and work on a temporary or project basis, providing strategic financial services. Bookkeepers focus on recording daily financial transactions and often have basic certifications. While Contract Accountants handle complex financial tasks, Bookkeepers manage routine record-keeping, making each role suited to different business needs.

What cities are hiring for Contract Accountants jobs? Cities with the most Contract Accountants job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Accountants jobs? The most popular types of Accountants jobs are:
What states have the most Contract Accountants jobs? States with the most job openings for Contract Accountants jobs include:
Infographic showing various Contract Accountants job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 10% Locum Tenens, 85% Full Time, 3% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Summer. Highlights an 83% Physical, 6% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $67,919 per year, or $32.7 per hour.
Sr. Grants & Contracts Accountant

Sr. Grants & Contracts Accountant

Howard

Washington, DC • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

The Talent Acquisition department hires qualified candidates to fill positions which contribute to the overall strategic success of Howard University. Hiring staff "for fit" makes significant contributions to Howard University's overall mission.

At Howard University, we prioritize well-being and professional growth.

Here is what we offer:

  • Health & Wellness: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance, plus mental health support
  • Work-Life Balance: PTO, paid holidays, flexible work arrangements
  • Financial Wellness: Competitive salary, 403(b) with company match
  • Professional Development: Ongoing training, tuition reimbursement, and career advancement paths
  • Additional Perks: Wellness programs, commuter benefits, and a vibrant company culture

Join Howard University and thrive with us!

https://hr.howard.edu/benefits-wellness

BASIC FUNCTION:

Under direction of the Director of Research Operational Controls, this position prepares financial reports, approves requisitions, payroll requests, travel and travel reimbursements, P-Cards, etc. Maintains financial records in a computerized database. Incumbent will also prepare comprehensive settlement and close out reports for various grants in the University.

SUPERVISORY AUTHORITY:

None

NATURE AND SCOPE:

Internal contacts include administrators and program staff, faculty, principal investigators and students of the University. External contacts Include representatives from government and private granting agencies, external auditors and regulatory agencies.

PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTABILITIES:

  • Post award administration in the Grants and Contracts Department
  • Processes financial reports, approves requisitions, payroll requests, travel and travel reimbursements, P-Cards, etc.
  • Reviews and corrects payments requests submitted by departmental administrators, budget officers, etc. Update, maintain and correct award profile data and budget management.
  • Makes journal entries, adjusts entries, and cancels encumbrances on a regularly scheduled basis to account for billing to funding agencies and private institutions.
  • Approves and processes on-line purchase requests, travel, P-Card, etc. on a regularly scheduled basis.
  • Reviews/researches/approves travel request documents for department representative or other Accountants.
  • Prepares and submits comprehensive reports of expenditures for grants and contracts, to various governmental and private agencies.
  • Provides technical assistance on the procedures and regulations associated with preparing spending documents. Advises department representatives of problems regarding grants as well as changes or corrections required to achieve compliance.
  • Processes interdepartmental charges and issues payment to proper revenue account for services Reconciles sub-ledgers to the general ledger and resolves differences.
  • Investigation of salary discrepancies of grant employees and the preparation of variance reports.
  • Analyzes expenditures on a regular basis to determine costs allowable under the University, federal and private agency regulations.
  • Conducts collection activities on outstanding billed receivable accounts, provides customer service to department representatives and responds to telephone inquiries from students, faculty and staff.
  • Performs other job-related duties as assigned.

CORE COMPETENCIES:

  • Comprehensive knowledge of principles, practices and methodologies of accounting including grant administration and reporting, budget policies and procedures.
  • Knowledge of personal computer with accompanying spreadsheet, database, word processing, and presentation software
  • Skills in managing financial transactions and knowledge of advance mathematics
  • Competence in both oral and written English to communicate in a clear and concise manner. Ability to do budget forecasting, deficit analysis and graphical interpretation of budget functions Ability to maintain accurate hardcopy and electronic accounting records
  • Ability to apply complex analytical concepts and verify the accuracy of data presented for processing and makes recommendation for resolution
  • Ability to evaluate work issues, train, develop, make / correct assignments and meet deadlines
  • Ability to define instructions, adhere to a changing system of specific policies and procedures
  • Ability to exercise discretion and ensure a high-level of confidentiality
  • Ability to establish and maintain effective and harmonious working relations with staff, University officials and the general public

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:

Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration or closely related field and four (4) years of relevant professional experience to include supervision of a unit involved in administering grants and contracts. Experience that demonstrates comprehensive knowledge and skill in grant administration and reporting, knowledge of the Uniform Guidance for Higher Education", expertise in computerized financial accounting systems required. PeopleSoft experience desired.

Compliance Salary Range Disclosure

Expected Salary Range: $85,454 - $94,000