Project Accountant/Cost Engineer (EPCM/SMPP Projects) - Sandton

SUMMARY:
The Project Accountant/Cost Engineer will play a key role in the financial operations of the company. This position involves preparing financial statements, analysing financial data, monthly reporting and ensuring compliance with accounting standards. The Senior Accountant will collaborate with various departments to support financial planning, budgeting, and strategic decision making processes.

POSITION INFO:
Bachelor’s degree in accounting, finance, or related field.
Minimum of 5 years of experience in Management or project accounting, preferably within the metallurgy or engineering industry.
Experience with financial software and ERP system (experience with MSD2018 is

Strong proficiency in financial analysis and financial reporting.
Advanced proficiency in MS Excel and other Microsoft Office applications.
Excellent attention to detail and accuracy.
Strong analytical and problem –solving skills.
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.

Accuracy and attention to detail: to ensure precision in financial reporting, analysis, and reconciliation. Should be meticulous in reviewing financial data and documentation to identify any errors or discrepancies.
Analytical thinking: To interpret complex financial data, identify trends, and draw meaningful insights. Should be able to analyse financial information, detect anomalies, and provide recommendations based on data – driven analysis.
Must adhere to high ethical standards, demonstrate integrity, confidentiality and professionalism in their work.
To prioritise work effectively, meet deadlines, and ensure timely and accurate financial reporting.
Communication and collaboration: With various stakeholders, including team members, management, auditors, and other departments. Should be able to explain financial concepts and reports clearly and collaborate with cross –functional teams to resolve accounting related issues.
Problem solving orientation: Should possess strong problem solving skills to identify the root causes of issues, propose effective solutions, and implement process improvements to prevent future occurrences.
Adaptability and flexibility: In embracing changes, learning new systems and processes and keeping up with industry developments.
Time management: Essential to prioritize tasks, allocate resources efficiently, and meet deadlines without compromising accuracy and quality of work.

Financial reporting and analysis:
Preparation of Management accounts and project reporting, and project cash flow statements, ensuring accuracy and adherence to accounting standards.
Perform financial analysis, including variance, profitability, and trend analysis, to provide insights and recommendations to management.

Prepare monthly, quarterly, and annual financial reports for internal and external stakeholders.
Assist with the preparation of regulatory and compliance filings, such as tax returns and government reports.

Management accounting and project reporting and reconciliation:
Maintain the general ledger, Management accounting and project reporting and ensure the accuracy and integrity of financial data.
Perform monthly and year-end closing activities, including journal entries, accruals, and reconciliations.
Conduct periodic account reconciliations to identify and resolve discrepancies or issues in a timely manner.
Assist with the implementation and improvement of accounting processes and internal controls.
Collaborate with the finance team to develop bi-annual budgets and periodic financial forecasts.
Monitor actual financial performance against budgeted targets and provide variance analysis.
Assist with the preparation of budget presentations and reports for the Executive Committee and key stakeholders.
Submit bi-annual budgets to the group company.
Provide insights and recommendations for cost control and expenditure optimization.
Verify bi-monthly payments for approval and release.
Perform Forward Exchange Contract revaluation for review by the manager.
Prepare and issue debtor invoices and statements.
Perform monthly and year-end closing activities for Accounts Receivable.
Perform monthly accounts receivable revaluations within the ERP system.
Prepare weekly and monthly debtor reports for internal stakeholders.
Perform project cost accounting activities, including budgeting and cost tracking for review by the manager.
Collaborate with project managers and cross-functional teams to prepare project budgets and cost estimates based on project requirements and objectives.
Prepare monthly analyse on project costs, comparing actual expenditure against budgeted amounts, and provide regular variance analysis reports to project stakeholders.
Update contract costing within the ERP system.
Ensure compliance with relevant accounting principles, standards, and regulations.
Assist with internal and external audits by providing requested documentation and explanations.
Support the implementation and maintenance of internal controls to safeguard company assets.
Assist in the development and implementation of accounting policies and procedures.
Collaborate with cross-functional teams, such as finance, engineering, commercial, and drawing office, to resolve accounting-related issues and improve financial processes.
Stay up to date with changes in accounting regulations and apply them to accounting practices as required.