Project Accountant

At Jacobs, we push the limits of what’s possible to make the world smarter and more connected. Our clients rely on us to be strategic and practical; to help them save money while being innovative; and to be environmentally sensitive and understanding of community concerns when delivering crucial urban development projects.

Jacobs has had a strong presence in the Middle East for many years and has been assisting the region implementing visionary transitions, such as with The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s 2030 Vision. The main objective is to develop a vibrant society, a thriving economy of an ambitious nation and this can be achieved through the development of water resources and infrastructure, which are at the core of this vision.

Job Purpose

Project Accountants perform key functions that directly influence the profitability and financial performance of the company. They work closely with Project Accounting Lead and Project Management to ensure the projects reflect accurate financial position. Project Accountants evaluate progress status using parameters such as billing and budgetary information submitted by Project Delivery personnel and ensures accuracy and compliance with company and system requirements. 

 Responsibilities not limited to:

•  Review contract terms and associated information; ensure project setup generates appropriate results in ERP financial system
• Drive client invoice generation with accuracy and quality for Lump sum, Time and Material, Cost-Plus and Reimbursable contracts. Ensure client invoices are issued as per contractual terms with appropriate supporting backup documentation
• Closely monitor and control Day Sales Outstanding (DSO) for project portfolio, while partnering with project leadership to incorporate tangible measures to reduce unbilled balances and aged receivables
• Provide financial and decision-making support to Project Management and Business Unit Operations for portfolio of projects (which could be around 50 projects with multiple clients)  
• Understand and monitor percentage of completion project revenue recognition, work in progress (WIP) and timely reporting of significant risks and opportunities  
• Monitor project costs and communicate budget overruns /savings to Project Management 
• Maintain files and documentation thoroughly and accurately, in accordance with company policy and accepted accounting practices.
• Assess problems as they may arise and partner with stakeholders to evaluate robust solution that best fits the issue; work with responsible individuals for appropriate actions to be taken and follow through to ensure completion.
• Ensure internal consistency, completeness, and accuracy of project financial data including but not limited to project revenue recognition, cost, invoicing, project investment and accruals. 
• Ensure all financial activities and requirements relating to project close-outs are carried out in a timely manner. 
• Coordinate with joint venture partners, other departments, suppliers, or clients to resolve financial questions or problems.
• Assist with audits which requires Project Accountant support  
• Apply best practices in line with company requirements, audit requirements, SOX and IFRS 
• Process month-end journals relating to provision, cost accruals and other project related financial adjustments to reflect the true performance of the project  
• Coordinate and respond to project financial questions from Project Accounting Lead, Regional Accounting Manager, Regional Business Unit Managers, and other interested managers.

Here’s What You’ll Need:

Requirements / Skills

• Degree in Accountancy / Finance
• ACCA/ CA /CPA or other professional accounting qualification preferred
• A minimum of 8+ years experience in handling Accounting responsibilities with a minimum of 3 years project accounting experience in Engineering Consulting and Construction industry
• Strong proficiency in Arabic language (written and spoken)
• Must be able to apply accounting/finance knowledge to large number of diverse situations ranging from routine project setup and management to complex financial analysis
• Possess working knowledge of financial system applications, preferably Oracle
• Advanced skillset in Microsoft Excel. Have the ability to convert data to meaningful analysis using spreadsheets
• Ability to step up to lead and collaborate in a fast phased and changing business environment
• Good time management and organizational skills; ability to multitask, work to meet tight deadlines
• Strong communication skills, with the ability to interact effectively with all levels of staff and management

Jacobs. A world where you can.

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer

From our inclusive employee networks to our positive mental health champions – we are committed to driving a culture of caring where you can be you. Joining Jacobs not only connects you locally but globally – and together, our diverse perspectives and unique backgrounds power our collective strength.

We collaborate and share! By supporting one another, we all succeed.

With safety and flexibility always top of mind, we have gone beyond traditional ways of working so you have the support, means and space to maximize your potential. You will uncover flexible working arrangements, benefits, and opportunities to do good too – from participating in our global giving and volunteering program, to exploring new and inventive ways to help our clients make the world a better place. No matter what drives you, you will discover how you can cultivate, nurture and achieve your goals – all at a single global company.

Start your Jacobs career with a company that inspires and empowers you to deliver your best work so you can evolve, grow and succeed – today and into tomorrow.

At Jacobs, we’re challenging today to reinvent tomorrow by solving the world’s most critical problems for thriving cities, resilient environments, mission-critical outcomes, operational advancement, scientific discovery and cutting-edge manufacturing, turning abstract ideas into realities that transform the world for good. With $13 billion in revenue and a talent force of more than 55,000, Jacobs provides a full spectrum of professional services including consulting, technical, scientific and project delivery for the government and private sector.