Assistant Project Accountant

Job Purpose

The Project Accounts Assistant will assist in budget monitoring, compliance with financial policies, and maintaining internal controls to ensure the project’s financial integrity. This position requires a detail-oriented individual with strong analytical skills and experience in project accounting.

Key Responsibilities

Financial Transactions & Record-Keeping

• Process invoices, payments, and reimbursements related to the project.
• Maintain accurate and up-to-date financial records.
• Prepare and post journal entries in the accounting system.
• Assist in reconciling accounts (bank, supplier, and ledger reconciliations).

Budget Monitoring & Expense Tracking

• Assist in preparing project budgets and forecasts.
• Monitor project expenditures against budgets and report variances.
• Ensure expenses align with the project’s financial plan and approvals.

Compliance & Internal Controls

• Ensure all financial transactions comply with internal policies and funding requirements.
• Support audit preparations by maintaining well-documented records.
• Assist in enforcing internal controls to prevent fraud and errors.

Reporting & Documentation

• Prepare periodic financial reports for project managers, donors, and stakeholders.
• Maintain documentation for project expenses, receipts, and approvals.
• Assist in preparing financial statements related to the project.

Tax Compliance

• Support tax filings, including VAT, withholding tax, and other statutory payments.

Coordination & Support

• Liaise with vendors, clients, and funding agencies on financial matters.
• Support procurement by reviewing financial aspects of purchase requests.
• Assist in responding to financial queries from project stakeholders.

Problem Solving

• Identify and resolve issues related to project finance and inventory management.
• Propose and implement process improvements to enhance efficiency and accuracy.

Qualifications

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Accounting, Business Administration, Mathematics, or a related field.

Experience

Minimum of 3 years of experience in project accounting, preferably in the construction or engineering industry.

Skills and Competencies

• Strong understanding of financial and accounting principles.
• Proficiency in accounting software (e.g., QuickBooks, SAP, Oracle) and Microsoft Office Suite, especially Excel.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Strong organizational and time-management abilities.
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment.