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Contract Accounting Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Accounting Manager

Poway, CA · On-site

$155K - $180K/yr

Senior Accounting Manager Revenue Recognition & Government Contract Accounting Leadership | 9/80 Schedule | Every Other Friday Off Looking for a leadership role where you can influence accounting ...

Accounting Manager IV

Poway, CA · On-site

$174K - $195K/yr

Lead Financial Accounting Services and Systems, including contract accounting, accounts payable, cash management, fixed assets, and travel & expense accounting * Manage, mentor, and develop ...

Sr. Accounting Manager

San Leandro, CA · On-site

$135K - $180K/yr

Government contract accounting for Fuse Federal -- DoD and DOE work, including the cost accounting standards, allowability rules, and reporting cadence that come with it. * Internal controls ...

Sr. Accounting Manager

San Leandro, CA · On-site

$180 - $240/hr

Government contract accounting for Fuse Federal -- DoD and DOE work, including the cost accounting standards, allowability rules, and reporting cadence that come with it. * Internal controls ...

Manager, Cost Accounting

Santa Ana, CA · On-site

$100 - $130/hr

Manage contract-related accounts, including unbilled revenue (contract assets) and deferred revenue ... Drive cost accounting activities, including standard cost updates and variance analysis (labor ...

Manager, Cost Accounting

Santa Ana, CA · On-site

$100 - $130/hr

Manage contract-related accounts, including unbilled revenue (contract assets) and deferred revenue ... Drive cost accounting activities, including standard cost updates and variance analysis (labor ...

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Contract Accounting information

See California salary details

$10

$35

$94

How much do contract accounting jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for contract accounting in California is $35.61, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.87 and $36.06 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is contract accounting?

Contract accounting is a specialized area of accounting that focuses on tracking, managing, and reporting financial transactions related to contracts between businesses and their clients or vendors. This process involves monitoring contract revenue, costs, billing, and compliance with contractual terms. Contract accountants ensure that financial records accurately reflect the performance and obligations of each contract, often in industries like construction, government, and consulting. Their work is crucial for auditing, financial planning, and meeting regulatory requirements.

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 background in accounting principles, knowledge of contract law, and typically a degree in accounting or finance. Familiarity with accounting software like QuickBooks, SAP, or Oracle, as well as understanding of compliance regulations, is often required. Strong attention to detail, analytical thinking, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for accurately managing contracts and collaborating with stakeholders. These skills ensure compliance, minimize financial risk, and support sound decision-making in contract management.

What are some common challenges faced in contract accounting roles, and how can they be managed effectively?

Contract accounting professionals often face challenges such as interpreting complex contract terms, ensuring compliance with revenue recognition standards (like ASC 606), and maintaining accuracy under tight deadlines. Managing these challenges requires strong attention to detail, regular collaboration with legal and sales teams, and ongoing professional development to stay updated on accounting standards. Utilizing robust accounting software and establishing clear communication channels across departments can significantly improve efficiency and reduce errors.

What is the difference between Contract Accounting vs Accounts Payable Specialist?

AspectContract AccountingAccounts Payable Specialist
CredentialsAccounting degree, CPA or similar certifications often preferredHigh school diploma or associate's degree, some accounting knowledge beneficial
Work EnvironmentCorporate finance, project-based, often in accounting or finance departmentsFinance or accounting departments, processing invoices and payments
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in industries with project-based work like construction, engineering, or consultingCommon across various industries handling vendor payments and invoice processing

Contract Accounting focuses on managing financial records for specific projects or contracts, requiring accounting expertise. Accounts Payable Specialists handle invoice processing and payments, often with less emphasis on complex accounting principles. While both roles involve financial data, Contract Accounting is more specialized and analytical, whereas Accounts Payable is more transactional and operational.

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

The most popular types of Accounting jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Contract Accounting jobs in California?

For Contract Accounting jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

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

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

What cities in California are hiring for Contract Accounting jobs?

Cities in California with the most Contract Accounting job openings:

Infographic showing various Contract Accounting job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 6% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 7% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $74,079 per year, or $35.6 per hour.

Accounting Manager

Aston Carter

Poway, CA

Full-time

Posted 7 days ago


Job description

Senior Accounting Manager


Aston Carter logo

About Aston Carter

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At Aston Carter, we're dedicated to expanding career opportunities for the skilled professionals who power our business. Our success is driven by the talented, motivated people who join our team across a range of positions - from recruiting, sales and delivery to corporate roles. As part of our team, employees have the opportunity for long-term career success, where hard work is rewarded and the potential for growth is limitless. Established in 1997, Aston Carter is a leading staffing and consulting firm, providing high-caliber talent and premium services to more than 7,000 companies across North America. Spanning four continents and more than 200 offices, we extend our clients' capabilities by seeking solvers and delivering solutions to address today's workforce challenges. For organizations looking for innovative solutions shaped by critical-thinking professionals, visit AstonCarter.com. Aston Carter is a company within Allegis Group, a global leader in talent solutions.

Industry

Recruiting and staffing services

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Hanover, MA, US