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Contract Accounting Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Aston Carter

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 ...

Seasats

Accounting Manager

San Diego, CA

$120K - $160K/yr

Accounting Manager Location: San Diego, CA (in-office) Salary Range: $120,000 - $160,000 / yr ... We're a venture-backed company with hardware manufacturing, software, government contracts, and ...

Seasats

Accounting Manager

San Diego, CA · On-site

$125 - $150/hr

Accounting Manager Location: San Diego, CA (in-office) Salary Range: $120,000 - $160,000 / yr ... We're a venture-backed company with hardware manufacturing, software, government contracts, and ...

New

Seasats

Accounting Manager

San Diego, CA · On-site

$120K - $160K/yr

Accounting Manager Location: San Diego, CA (in-office) Salary Range: $120,000 - $160,000 / yr ... We're a venture-backed company with hardware manufacturing, software, government contracts, and ...

New

Seasats

Accounting Manager

San Diego, CA · On-site

$120K - $160K/yr

Accounting Manager Location: San Diego, CA (in-office) Salary Range: $120,000 - $160,000 / yr ... We're a venture-backed company with hardware manufacturing, software, government contracts, and ...

Front Door Defense

Accounting Manager Growth

San Diego, CA · On-site

$125 - $150/hr

Accounting Manager Build and scale Seasats' accounting function, elevating close quality and ... We're a venture-backed company with hardware manufacturing, software, government contracts, and ...

New

Fuse

Sr. Accounting Manager

San Leandro, CA · On-site

$200 - $250/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 ...

Fuse

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 ...

Nikkiso Co.

Manager, Cost Accounting

Santa Ana, CA · On-site

$100 - $125/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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All JobsContract Accounting JobsContract Accounting Jobs in California

Contract Accounting information

See California salary details

$10

$35

$94

How much do contract accounting jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 8, 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:

Contract Accounting jobs near you
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 • On-site

$155K - $180K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 11 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Lead, mentor, and develop multiple accounting teams, including managers and direct contributors.

  • Oversee revenue recognition for government and commercial contracts in accordance with ASC 606.

  • Ensure accurate and timely financial reporting, maintain internal controls, and support audits.

Job description

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 strategy, partner with executive leadership, and drive meaningful business decisions? We're seeking a Senior Accounting Manager to lead multiple accounting functions supporting a complex portfolio of government and commercial programs.
This is a highly visible opportunity for an experienced accounting leader with deep expertise in ASC 606 revenue recognition, government contracting, and financial reporting. You'll lead a multi-layer accounting organization, partner closely with Finance, FP&A, Program Finance, and Operations leadership, and play a critical role in maintaining accurate financial reporting, compliance, and operational excellence.
San Diego, CA (Onsite)
One Work-From-Home Day Per Week
9/80 Schedule with Every Other Friday Off
✈ Relocation Assistance Available
What You'll Do
Leadership & Business Partnership
  • Lead, mentor, and develop multiple accounting teams, including managers and direct contributors
  • Serve as a trusted advisor to executive leadership on technical accounting, financial reporting, and contract-related matters
  • Partner closely with FP&A, Program Finance, Contracts, Operations, and Senior leadership teams to support strategic decision-making
  • Foster a culture of accountability, continuous improvement, and collaboration across the accounting organization

Revenue Recognition & Contract Accounting
  • Oversee revenue recognition for a diverse portfolio of government and commercial contracts in accordance with ASC 606
  • Review contract terms and evaluate accounting treatment, financial risk, cash flow implications, and reporting requirements
  • Influence accounting outcomes throughout the contract lifecycle, including proposal, capture, negotiation, and award phases
  • Provide guidance on complex accounting transactions and non-routine business events

Financial Reporting & Compliance
  • Ensure accurate and timely financial reporting in accordance with US GAAP and company policies
  • Oversee accounting functions including contract accounting, fixed assets, accounts payable, and related financial operations
  • Maintain strong internal controls and ensure compliance with FAR, CAS, and other government contracting requirements
  • Support external audits, regulatory audits, and ongoing audit readiness initiatives

Process Improvement & Operational Excellence
  • Drive accounting process improvements and operational efficiencies across multiple functions
  • Strengthen reporting processes, controls, and departmental procedures
  • Evaluate existing workflows and identify opportunities to improve scalability, accuracy, and effectiveness
  • Support organizational growth through best practices and innovative accounting solutions

Qualifications
Required
  • Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field
  • 11+ years of progressive accounting and finance experience
  • Significant experience with ASC 606 revenue recognition
  • Strong background in government contract accounting
  • Experience overseeing multiple accounting functions and teams
  • Experience managing managers and leading multi-layer organizations
  • Strong knowledge of US GAAP, FAR, CAS, and internal controls
  • Experience supporting audits and compliance activities
  • Advanced Excel skills
  • Strong leadership, communication, and presentation abilities
  • Ability to navigate complex accounting issues and influence decision-making across the organization

Preferred
  • CPA, CMA, or MBA
  • Public accounting or Big Four experience
  • Manufacturing, aerospace, or defense industry experience
  • Experience working directly with government agencies on accounting-related matters
  • Knowledge of Warranty Accounting, Offset Accounting, or Cost Share Accounting
  • Experience leading large-scale process improvement or transformation initiatives
Job Type & Location
This is a Permanent position based out of Poway, CA.
Pay and Benefits
The pay range for this position is $155000.00 - $180000.00/yr.
Individual compensation offered for this position within this range will depend on many factors, including qualifications, skills, relevant experience, job knowledge, geographic location, internal equity, and other pertinent job-related factors.
Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage401(k) + company pension planPaid time off + paid holidaysTuition reimbursement and ongoing developmentEmployee wellness programs and EAP9/80 work schedule (every other Friday off)
Workplace Type
This is a hybrid position in Poway,CA.
Application Deadline
This position is anticipated to close on Sep 9, 2026.
About Aston Carter
Aston Carter provides world-class corporate talent solutions to thousands of clients across the globe. Specialized in accounting, finance, human resources, talent acquisition, procurement, supply chain and select administrative professions, we extend the capabilities of industry-leading companies. We draw on our deep recruiting expertise and expansive network to meet the evolving needs of our clients and talent community with agility and excellence. With offices across the U.S., Canada, Asia Pacific and Europe, Aston Carter serves many of the Fortune 500. We are proud to be a ClearlyRated Best of Staffing® Platinum Award winner for both client and talent service.
The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.
If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability, please email astoncarteraccommodation@astoncarter.com for other accommodation options.
San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance: Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.
Massachusetts Lie Detector: It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.
Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI): We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.
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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

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