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Contract 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 ...

Senior Cost Accountant

Stockton, CA · On-site

$85K - $125K/yr

Government contract accounting and percentage-of-completion (POC) experience preferred * Strong Excel and data analysis skills; ERP system experience * Due to the nature of this employer's contracts ...

Lead Contract Reviews: Analyze complex, multi-element arrangements and prepare ASC 606 checklists to document Anduril's technical accounting conclusions for point-in-time and over-time revenue ...

New

Controller

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$200K - $250K/yr

Own Revenue and Contract Accounting * Lead revenue recognition and contract accounting for enterprise customer arrangements that may include hardware, subscription software, implementation, support ...

Controller

Oxnard, CA · On-site

$140 - $210/hr

That means real cost accounting, real inventory, and real government contract compliance. As we scale manufacturing and win larger programs, the infrastructure you put in place will determine how ...

New

Own Revenue and Contract Accounting * Lead revenue recognition and contract accounting for enterprise customer arrangements that may include hardware, subscription software, implementation, support ...

SAP BRIM Consultant

Irvine, CA · On-site

$67.75 - $92.25/hr

... Contract Accounting (FI-CA) or related industry solution • Subscription and Order Management (SOM) module of S/4 Service Management

Showing results 21-40

Contract Accounting information

See California salary details

$10

$35

$94

How much do contract accounting jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 4, 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.

Construction Accounting Clerk

Empire Construction

Santa Ana, CA • On-site

$29 - $32/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired 2 days ago. Applications are no longer accepted.


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.