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Project Accountant Jobs in Reston, VA (NOW HIRING)

M.C. Dean, Inc

Project Accountant - Manassas, VA

Manassas, VA · On-site

$61K - $80K/yr

Manage the finances, accounting, and contract compliance for several large multi-year projects and programs. Responsibilities include the following: * Produce and/or coordinate monthly billing for ...

Astrion

Project Setup Accountant

Washington, DC · Remote

$85K - $126K/yr

Overview Project Setup Accountant LOCATION: Remote, U.S. JOB STATUS: Full-time CLEARANCE: N/A CERTIFICATION: N/A TRAVEL: As Needed Astrion has an exciting opportunity for an experienced and results ...

National Capitol Contracting (NCC)

Be Seen First

Project Control Accountant

Mclean, VA · On-site

$61K - $80K/yr

The Project Control Accountant position is a mid-level position and reports directly to the Controller. Essential Duties and Responsibilities: * Monitor cash daily to ensure sufficient funds are ...

Quantum Space

Senior Accountant

Rockville, MD

$110K - $130K/yr

You will own month-end close, project accounting, and government contract compliance in a fast-paced aerospace and defense environment where financial accuracy directly supports flight programs. We ...

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All JobsProject Accountant JobsProject Accountant Jobs in Reston, VA

Project Accountant information

See Reston, VA salary details

$44.2K

$74.8K

$104.6K

How much do project accountant jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for project accountant in Reston, VA is $74,816.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $63,500.00 and $83,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What Does a Project Accountant Do?

A project accountant manages the expenses, billing, and budget for one or more projects. In most cases, the project manager sends bills and invoices to the project accountant for approval and payment, and the accountant maintains records regarding costs and project-related expenses. As a project accountant, your duties and responsibilities include investigating billing issues and overages, as well as forecasting future costs to ensure the company can complete the project within budget. You may also be expected to file tax returns and government reports, so you need excellent writing skills. Finally, you serve as the financial gatekeeper for all aspects of the project, so you need to demonstrate trustworthiness and common sense.

What is the difference between Project Accountant vs Cost Accountant?

AspectProject AccountantCost Accountant
Primary FocusManaging project-specific financials, budgets, and reportingAnalyzing and controlling costs across departments or products
Work EnvironmentConstruction, engineering, or project-based industriesManufacturing, production, or corporate finance
Required CredentialsAccounting degree, CPA preferred, project management knowledgeAccounting or finance degree, CPA or CMA often preferred
Employer UsageConstruction firms, engineering companies, project-based organizationsManufacturers, corporations, cost analysis departments

While both roles involve accounting and financial analysis, a Project Accountant focuses on managing the financial aspects of specific projects, ensuring budgets are met and financial reports are accurate. A Cost Accountant, on the other hand, concentrates on analyzing and controlling costs across the organization to improve efficiency and profitability. Understanding these differences helps professionals choose the right career path or role based on industry and skill set.

Can you make $500,000 a year as an accountant?

Project accountants typically do not earn $500,000 annually; such high salaries are rare and usually reserved for executive-level roles or highly specialized professionals with extensive experience, certifications, and management responsibilities. Most accountants earn a median salary significantly lower, though senior roles in large corporations or consulting firms can approach higher six-figure incomes. Achieving a $500,000 salary often requires advanced skills, leadership positions, or ownership of a firm.

How does a Project Accountant typically interact with project managers and other departments during the project lifecycle?

Project Accountants play a key liaison role, working closely with project managers to track budgets, monitor costs, and ensure financial compliance throughout each project phase. They often attend regular project meetings to provide updates on financial status and alert teams to potential budget risks. Collaboration with departments like procurement, operations, and finance is common, as Project Accountants reconcile invoices, process payments, and support accurate financial reporting. This cross-functional teamwork helps facilitate smooth project delivery and ensures all financial aspects align with organizational goals.

How much does a project accountant earn?

A project accountant's salary typically ranges from $60,000 to $90,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and industry. Professionals with certifications like CPA or CMA and proficiency in accounting software may earn higher wages.

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

To thrive as a Project Accountant, you need a solid background in accounting principles, financial reporting, and project cost management, typically supported by a degree in accounting or finance. Familiarity with project management software, ERP systems like SAP or Oracle, and sometimes a CPA certification are commonly required. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help ensure accuracy and collaboration with project teams. These skills enable precise tracking of project finances, compliance with regulations, and successful delivery of projects within budget.

Can you make $100,000 as an accountant?

Project accountants and other accounting professionals can earn $100,000 or more annually, especially with experience, certifications like CPA, and working in industries such as finance or construction. Salaries vary based on location, level of responsibility, and company size, with senior roles and specialized skills commanding higher pay.

What does a project accountant do?

A project accountant is responsible for managing financial aspects of specific projects, including budgeting, cost tracking, and financial reporting. They ensure projects stay within budget, analyze financial data, and often use accounting software to monitor project expenses and revenues.
More about Project Accountant jobs
What are popular job titles related to Project Accountant jobs in Reston, VA? For Project Accountant jobs in Reston, VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Project Accountant jobs in Reston, VA look for? The top searched job categories for Project Accountant jobs in Reston, VA are:
What cities near Reston, VA are hiring for Project Accountant jobs? Cities near Reston, VA with the most Project Accountant job openings:
Project Accountant jobs near you

Part-time Entry-Level Project Accountant

Terrestris Global Solutions

Springfield, VA • On-site

Full-time, Part-time

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 days ago

Job description

Are you looking for a Challenge? Looking for an innovative organization and the opportunity to learn and grow professionally? We can help! We are seeking a Part-time Entry-Level Project Accountant to support our growing team. This role is primarily on-site in Woodbridge, VA with (1) day per week at our Springfield, VA office.

I've never heard of Terrestris. What do you do?

At Terrestris, we leverage technology to create better mission outcomes through better human performance. We form strong client and team relationships through transparency and strive to create an environment where our team can let their excellence shine through. By finding, developing, and incorporating new ideas, we provide memorable services. Rooted in the USMC values of honor, courage, and commitment, Terrestris seeks to deliver extraordinary value to the American people by helping the Government become more efficient and effective.

So, what will the Part-time Entry-Level Project Accountant at Terrestris do?

As an entry-level project accountant, you will support a variety of federal programs and internal projects. This is an ideal opportunity for a recent graduate or emerging professional looking to gain experience in financial operations within the federal space. After three months, this position has the potential to transition into a full-time role based on performance and business needs.

What does a typical day look like for the Part-time Entry-Level Project Accountant?

You will:

  • Track project budgets, actuals, and forecasts.
  • Assist with maintaining state tax compliance and review travel reports.
  • Ensure costs are allowable, allocable, and reasonable per FAR (Federal Acquisition Regulation) and CAS (Cost Accounting Standards).
  • Maintain compliance with agency-specific guidelines (e.g., DCAA, DFARS).
  • Support audits and ensure audit-ready documentation.
  • Prepare and submit invoices in accordance with the contract (T&M, CPFF, FFP, etc.).
  • Reconcile billed vs. actual costs.
  • Interface with government payment systems (e.g., Wide Area Workflow (WAWF)).
  • Reconcile labor costs with timesheets and labor distribution reports.
  • Ensure accuracy of direct and indirect labor allocations.
  • Support indirect rate calculations and rate variance analysis.
  • Set up new projects in the accounting system according to contract terms.
  • Ensure proper closeout of projectsfinal invoices, audit support, and documentation archiving.
  • Generate internal financial reports and external reports for government agencies.
  • Provide project managers with real-time financial data to support decision-making.
  • Assist in preparing for and responding to DCAA or agency financial audits.
  • Maintain detailed records to ensure traceability and compliance.

What qualifications do you look for?

You might be the professional we're looking for if you have:

  • Bachelor's Degree in Business, Finance, Accounting, or a related field.
  • A minimum of one (1) year of relevant experience (internships, academic projects, or part-time work) in financial analysis or accounting.
  • Strong understanding of accounting principles and financial management within complex organizations.
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, particularly Excel; experience with SharePoint is preferred.
  • Strong attention to detail and organizational skills.
  • Ability to work collaboratively and communicate clearly with internal team(s).

We are extra impressed by folks with:

  • Experience with QuickBooks desktop.
  • Familiarity with federal agencies.

What kind of benefits does Terrestris Offer?

We offer outstanding benefits including health, life, disability, financial, and retirement benefits, as well as paid leave professional development, tuition assistance, and work-life programs. Our award programs acknowledge employees for exceptional performance and superior demonstration of our service standards. Full-time and part-time employees working at least 20 hours a week on a regular basis are eligible to participate in our benefit programs. Other offerings may be provided for employees not within this category.

Terrestris is an Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE). Qualified applicants are considered for employment without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, disability, or veteran status. Applicants must be authorized to work in the U.S.

DILBERT 2018 Scott Adams. Used By permission of ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION. All rights reserved.