Real Estate Development Accountant
Job Summary
We are seeking a detail-oriented and experienced Real Estate Development Accountant to manage financial operations across real estate development and construction projects throughout their full lifecycle. This role is responsible for project accounting construction draws cost tracking budgeting and financial reporting while also supporting audits tax preparation and lender/investor compliance.
The ideal candidate has strong experience in construction and development accounting including job costing capitalized costs draw processes and multi-entity structures.
- Track and monitor project costs across multiple developments and phases
- Ensure accurate cost allocation and capitalization in compliance with accounting standards
- Analyze actual costs versus budgets and forecasts; identify variances and recommend solutions
- Maintain detailed job cost reports and project-level financials
- Partner with project managers to ensure accurate financial tracking
- Prepare submit and track construction draws and payment applications
- Prepare settlement statements for financing closings
- Record lender draws capital contributions and distributions
- Reconcile draws to budgets contracts and loan agreements
- Ensure compliance with lender requirements and deadlines
- Coordinate with lenders contractors and internal stakeholders
- Assist in developing project budgets and financial forecasts
- Update projections based on project progress and change orders
- Provide financial insights to project teams
- Prepare and maintain project cash flow forecasts
- Maintain general ledger accounts across multiple entities (LLCs partnerships)
- Perform monthly bank reconciliations and account analyses
- Prepare journal entries and monthly financial reporting packages
- Assist in quarterly and annual financial statement preparation
- Ensure proper classification of expenses and capitalized costs
- Prepare audit workpapers and support tax return preparation
- Assist with cost certifications for contractors and owners
- Maintain documentation for financing contracts and approvals
- Ensure compliance with internal controls and partnership agreements
- Maintain accurate data in accounting and project management systems (e.g. QuickBooks Smartsheet)
- Utilize advanced Excel functions (pivot tables modeling etc.)
- Support process improvements and financial reporting enhancements
- Maintain organization across multiple development entities
- Collaborate with development construction and leadership teams
- Support reporting documentation and special projects as needed
- Bachelors degree in Accounting Finance or a related field (required)
- 37 years of accounting experience
- Experience in real estate development or construction accounting strongly preferred
- Proven experience with project-based accounting and job costing required.
- Strong knowledge of construction/development accounting principles
- Proficiency with QuickBooks or similar accounting software
- Advanced Microsoft Excel skills
- Experience with Smartsheet SharePoint and other business tools a plus
- Strong attention to detail and accuracy
- Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills
- Ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines
- Strong organizational and documentation skills
- Effective communication with cross-functional teams
- Ability to thrive in a fast-paced deadline-driven environment
- Opportunity to work on impactful real estate development projects
- Competitive compensation and benefits
- Growth and professional development opportunities