Project Accountant at CEC Controls Company Inc – Warren, Michigan

About the Role

CEC Controls Company, Inc, member of the global SCIO Automation company is looking for a new role on the North American finance team. We are seeking a highly organized, proactive, and detail‑oriented Project Accountant to support the lead Project Controller and assist in the financial controlling of projects group wide. This role will focus on accurate billing, project setup, financial data integrity, and collaboration with Project Managers to ensure billing readiness and clean financial records.

This position requires a self‑starter who can confidently manage responsibilities with minimal oversight, prioritize effectively, and take initiative.

Key Responsibilities

Billing & Accounts Receivable

• Prepare and submit project invoices in accordance with contract terms and project milestones.
• Perform weekly follow‑up on upcoming or projected billing items to ensure invoicing readiness.
• Process AR credits and billing reversals as needed to maintain accurate customer accounts.
• Reconcile invoicing discrepancies and support AR‑related functions.

Project Setup & Financial Maintenance

• Set up new projects in the ERP system, including budgets, labor/equipment rates, retainage settings, and required billing configurations.
• Complete new customer setup within the ERP to support billing activities.
• Maintain accurate project financial data throughout the project lifecycle.
• Process budget updates, contract modifications, and change orders.
• Prepare project closeouts by ensuring all financial components are complete and accurate.

ERP & Financial Data Accuracy

• Enter and maintain accurate project financial information in the ERP system.
• Ensure project documentation is complete, organized, and audit‑ready.
• Conduct regular ERP project reviews with Project Managers to validate billing accuracy, financial alignment, and project status.

Forecasting Support & Reporting

• Partner with Project Managers and the Project Controller to support revenue timing and provide projected billing inputs.
• Assist with validating financial accuracy within project reports and ensuring revenue aligns with project progress.

Qualifications

Education and Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, Business, or related field.
• 3–5 years of experience in project billing, project accounting, or cost analysis.
• Strong understanding of project financial workflows (billing methods, budgets, project setup, retainage, and change orders).
• Proficiency with ERP systems and the ability to maintain accurate financial data.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite, primarily with mid to high level excel formulations.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
• High attention to detail and strong organizational and documentation skills.
• Ability to manage multiple projects across varying stages and deadlines.
• Effective communication and collaboration skills.

Preferred Experience

• Experience in manufacturing, engineering, construction, or other project‑based environments.
• Experience with percent‑complete or contract‑based billing structures.
• Familiarity with WBS structures and project budget management.
• Experience with Encompix or similar project‑based ERP systems.
• Exposure to multi‑entity or multi‑segment billing environments.
• Mexico financial practices and billing experience.

Other Requirements

• In office position with remote work potential.
• Possible local travel between group offices in the Metro Detroit area, roughly 5%

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Vision insurance