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Project Cost Accountant

Company Description

KPFF, a multi-office, multi-discipline engineering firm, champions Excellence, Trust, Relationships, Stability, and Passion. With over 60 years of experience, we foster a dynamic environment for creative solutions across diverse projects and scales. Our decentralized structure empowers our 1,300 team members in 27 nationwide offices, offering abundant flexibility and growth opportunities. Rooted in Seattle since 1960, KPFF excels as a collaborative team of consulting professionals driving innovative solutions and sustainable design. Join us to shape the built environment and drive impactful engineering solutions with your creativity and passion.

With over 1,400 professionals across 27 offices nationwide, KPFF’s decentralized structure allows each office the flexibility to pursue projects aligned with their regional strengths. Learn more at www.kpff.com.

In our Portland Civil + Survey office, we work on a wide variety of project types, serving public and private clients in land development, transportation, and municipal projects. This includes architectural-led building projects for higher ed campuses, sports facilities, schools, medical campuses, and mixed-use housing. In addition, we work on parks, trails, master planning, and include stormwater management and a sustainability focus on everything we do. We believe in encouraging personal and professional growth, and we work hard at providing a solid structure with minimal organizational restrictions. We have a great group of collaborative and dedicated engineers in a family-friendly, business casual environment located in downtown Portland.

Job Description

We are seeking a full-time Project Cost Accountant for our Portland Civil + Survey office. This position will work alongside experienced Project Cost Accountants to provide financial project support to Project Managers and Principals. We seek individuals who enjoy challenging work and who are motivated to improve the work environment to make it more efficient and collaborative.

Core Responsibilities (including, but not limited to)

  • Create and maintain all projects in project cost accounting system (BST11)
  • Work closely with Project Managers for project set-up, budget tracking and analysis, client billings and collections
  • Prepare and process monthly client billings
  • Run A/R inquiries to monitor and manage collections
  • Accounts payable back-up
  • Update contract information, budgets and tasks in BST11
  • Provide Project Managers with project financial information as requested
  • Work in collaboration with corporate accounting group to meet expectations/deadlines

Qualifications

  • Minimum 3 years prior cost accounting experience with progression of responsibilities in a professional office environment
  • AA degree with accounting emphasis
  • Proficient in MS Office programs specifically Excel but including Outlook, Word and PowerPoint
  • Desire to learn and able to take direction and also work independently
  • Strong organizational, multi-tasking and problem-solving skills
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills
  • Positive attitude and demeanor
  • Experience in A/E/C industry (desired, not required)
  • Prior software experience with BST11 (desired, not required)

Additional Information

Ideal Candidate

You understand that success requires more than handling the task at hand – it requires the ability to think beyond the task and consider ‘big picture’ process and effects. You don’t wilt under pressure, are excited to problem solve, and are passionate about attention to the details. You seek to work collaboratively, do not hesitate to raise questions, and desire to be part of the solution. You take pride and ownership in your work and understand your role in our company’s success.

Compensation

The base salary for this role is competitive and will be determined based on the candidate's experience, education, and skills. The expected range for a qualified candidate for this Project Cost Accountant position is $74,000 to $80,000. Additionally, we offer performance-based bonuses to recognize and reward outstanding contributions in each Reporting Center. KPFF is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer.

KPFF Employee Benefits

  • Medical Plan Options: Choice of Traditional PPO or HDHP with HSA, covering preventive care and prescriptions.
  • Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA): Tax-advantaged accounts for healthcare and dependent care expenses.
  • Dental & Vision: Full preventive care, plus coverage for major dental services and vision allowances.
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP): Free, confidential support for personal, family, and work challenges.
  • Life & AD&D Insurance: Company-provided life insurance equal to one year’s salary, plus AD&D.
  • 401(k) Retirement Plan: KPFF contributes 3% of salary, with no match needed. 
  • Disability Insurance: Short-term and long-term coverage at 60% income, fully covered by KPFF.
  • Paid Time Off: Generous PTO, two floating holidays, and paid company holidays.
  • Paid Family Leave: Six weeks at 60% pay, with options to use PTO for full income.

Other Perks

  • Hybrid work schedule
  • Free secure bike parking
  • Public transportation 50% subsidy
  • Free use of on-site gym + locker facilities
  • Team sports (HTC relay race, co-ed softball)
  • Reimbursement for professional association dues
  • Office social events, including annual Winter party and Summer picnic
  • Office committee opportunities
  • Community projects participation

KPFF Consulting Engineers participates in E-Verify and will provide the federal government with your Form I-9 information to confirm that you are authorized to work in the U.S.

KPFF Consulting Engineers is an equal opportunity employer and considers all qualified applicants for employment without regard to race, color, creed, ethnicity, national origin, religion, marital status, sex/gender (including sexual orientation or gender identity), pregnancy, veteran status, citizenship status, physical or mental disability, or any other protected basis.

Average salary estimate

$77000 / YEARLY (est.)
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$74000K
$80000K

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What You Should Know About Project Cost Accountant, KPFF Consulting Engineers

Are you ready to join a dynamic team at KPFF, a leading multi-office engineering firm based in Portland, OR? We’re looking for a full-time Project Cost Accountant who can dive into the financial aspects of diverse projects while collaborating closely with our amazing Project Managers and Principals. In this role, you'll be responsible for setting up and maintaining project cost details in our specialized accounting system, BST11, which means you’ll play a crucial part in our project success from the start. The importance of budget tracking, client billings, and collections cannot be overstated, and you’ll be at the forefront of these activities! Your expertise will help ensure that KPFF continues to foster excellence and innovative solutions in all our projects. If you have at least 3 years of cost accounting experience, preferably in an A/E/C environment, and are proficient in Excel, we want you to bring your skills and positive attitude to our family-friendly downtown office. With KPFF, you will have the chance to grow both personally and professionally within a supportive structure, and enjoy perks like a hybrid work schedule and generous paid time off. If you're passionate about driving impactful engineering solutions, come join KPFF and be a part of a team that's shaping the built environment with creativity and dedication!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Project Cost Accountant Role at KPFF Consulting Engineers
What are the responsibilities of a Project Cost Accountant at KPFF?

As a Project Cost Accountant at KPFF, your primary responsibilities will include managing all project cost data within our accounting system, BST11. You'll collaborate closely with Project Managers to set up projects, track budgets, handle client billings, and manage collections. Monitoring accounts receivable inquiries and providing financial insights to support project efficiency will also be key aspects of your role.

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What qualifications do I need to apply for the Project Cost Accountant role at KPFF?

To apply for the Project Cost Accountant position at KPFF, you need a minimum of three years of cost accounting experience within a professional office environment, along with an AA degree with an accounting emphasis. Proficiency in MS Office, especially Excel, is crucial. The ideal candidate should also demonstrate strong organizational skills and a proactive attitude towards learning.

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How does the Project Cost Accountant role contribute to KPFF's success?

The Project Cost Accountant role at KPFF is essential for ensuring financial accuracy and efficiency in project management. By keeping track of financial data, budgets, and client relationships, you will help Project Managers make informed decisions that enhance project outcomes and contribute to the overall success of KPFF as a leader in innovative engineering solutions.

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What is the work culture like for Project Cost Accountants at KPFF?

KPFF boasts a collaborative and supportive work culture for Project Cost Accountants, fostered by a dedicated team of professionals in a family-friendly environment. Employees enjoy flexibility in their roles, opportunities for personal and professional growth, and a relaxed, business-casual setting located in downtown Portland.

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What benefits can I expect as a Project Cost Accountant at KPFF?

As a Project Cost Accountant at KPFF, you can expect a comprehensive benefits package that includes medical, dental, and vision plans, retirement contributions, generous paid time off, and hybrid work options. Additional perks include team sports, social events, and reimbursements for professional dues, making KPFF a fantastic place to grow your career.

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Common Interview Questions for Project Cost Accountant
Can you describe your experience with project cost accounting?

When answering this question, detail your previous roles in cost accounting, specific projects you managed, and the tools you used. Highlight how your experience has prepared you for the Project Cost Accountant role at KPFF, emphasizing your attention to detail and ability to work collaboratively.

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How do you ensure accuracy in your financial reporting?

Discuss the processes you follow to verify the accuracy of your work, such as double-checking data entries, using automated tools for calculations, and reviewing financial reports with team members. Mention how you communicate financial information to project stakeholders to maintain transparency.

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What do you believe is the most challenging aspect of project cost accounting?

Identify a common challenge such as budget overruns or changes in project scope. Explain how you’ve dealt with these issues in the past and emphasize your problem-solving skills, focusing on a specific instance where you found a successful resolution.

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How do you prioritize tasks when managing multiple projects?

Provide an example of how you handle competing priorities, such as setting deadlines, breaking tasks into manageable parts, and using project management software. Highlight your organizational skills and how you ensure that all project costs are tracked effectively.

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Can you explain your experience with billing clients?

Discuss any experiences you have with preparing invoices and tracking receivables. Explain the processes you followed to ensure clients were billed correctly and on time, emphasizing your role in maintaining positive client relationships.

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What software are you familiar with, and how do you use technology in your accounting work?

Mention your proficiency in BST11 if applicable, and discuss other software tools you’ve used, such as Excel or accounting databases. Highlight how you use technology to streamline processes, improve accuracy, and enhance collaboration with team members.

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How do you handle tight deadlines in your role?

Explain your approach to working under pressure, such as maintaining a calm demeanor, prioritizing tasks, and communicating with your team when challenges arise. Provide an example of a time when you successfully met a tight deadline.

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What steps do you take to stay updated on accounting regulations and best practices?

Share how you pursue continuous learning through professional development opportunities, workshops, or industry associations. Emphasize your commitment to staying informed about changes in accounting standards that may impact your work at KPFF.

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How do you approach collaboration with Project Managers?

Illustrate your communication style and willingness to work closely with Project Managers. Share how you assess their needs for financial information and support their decision-making processes with data-driven insights.

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What motivates you as a Project Cost Accountant?

Talk about your passion for helping teams succeed through accurate financial oversight and your desire to contribute to successful projects. Share how this motivates you to maintain high-quality work and build positive relationships within your team.

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Founded in 1960, KPFF Consulting Engineers is a multi-discipline engineering firm specializing in architecture, transportation, and infrastructure. They are headquartered in Seattle, Washington with locations throughout the United States.

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Full-time, hybrid
DATE POSTED
April 16, 2025

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