The Project Accounting Manager is responsible for overseeing project accounting functions including the invoicing process, accounts receivable, contract management, and project-related accounts payable. The Project Accounting Manager supervises Project Accountants and Project Analysts.
Attributes to support the NELSON Culture:
- Go All In. Own the Outcome. We go all in—with urgency, follow-through, and pride in the result.
- Be Direct. Be Respectful. Be Authentic. We keep it real—with clarity, candor, and care.
- Grow with Purpose. We embrace growth—through learning, coaching, and continuous improvement.
- Think Bold. Execute Smart. We think boldly—and pair ambition with discipline.
- Make Space for Everyone. We value you—and build a culture where people can thrive and do their best work.
Qualifications:
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty and responsibility satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Critical features of this job are described under the headings below. They may be subject to change at any time due to reasonable accommodation or other reasons.
Required Knowledge and Skills:
- Minimum of 6 years of project accounting experience in the Interior Design/Architecture industry preferred.
- Strong analytical skills and attention to detail.
- Ability to interact effectively with all levels of staff and management with varying degrees of financial knowledge.
- Ability to multi-task and work under pressure in a fast-paced environment.
- Strong and effective written and verbal communication skills.
- Experience with Deltek VantagePoint or SAP software preferred.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities include the following. Other duties may be assigned:
- Manage invoicing process and drive process improvements within the billing team to ensure timely and accurate invoicing.
- Coordinate and manage Accounts Payable within assigned business unit with NELSON corporate finance and local accounting support.
- Manage and mentor Project Accountants and Project Analysts.
- Act as point of escalation for Project Analysts and Project Managers for underperforming projects when needed.
- Conduct regular meetings with Project Analysts to review projects that are overbudget and develop plan to mitigate financial losses.
- Manage contract review process in conjunction with Project Analysts to ensure project setup and invoicing conforms to contract terms.
- Proactively manage unbilled time & expenses to ensure all aging balances are addressed by the Project Manager.
- Manage Accounts Receivable/ collection process with local accounting support and act as point of escalation when needed.
- Manage new vendor set-up.
- Manage consultant contracts, terms & conditions, etc.
- In conjunction with Project Accountants and Project Analysts, train Project Managers on new project set-up, project planning, and invoicing process.
- Routine review of unapplied Cash Receipts .
- Review and approve project write-offs, voids, and error corrections.
- Produce and analyze regular monthly reporting and escalate concerns to Manager/Director of Financial Operations.
Education / Experience:
- Bachelors’ degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field
- Minimum of six years’ experience in Interior Design/Architecture industry preferred, or equivalent combination of education and experience
Benefits of NELSON: (additional benefit details can be found at: nelsonworldwide.com/careers)
- 401(K) plan with company match
- Full health benefits including medical, dental, and vision
- Wellness program with rewards for healthy activities
- Pet Insurance
- Opportunities for career advancement
- Paid time off and holiday pay
- Paid parental leave
- Flexible working schedules and work from home options based on client’s needs
- Professional Development including discretionary support and reimbursement for registrations, certifications, and membership to a professional organization
NELSON and its related affiliates are an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, color, ancestry, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, transgender, national origin, status as a protected veteran, disability or any other classification protected by law.
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Skills Required
- Bachelors' degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field
- Minimum of six years project accounting experience in the Interior Design/Architecture industry (or equivalent combination of education and experience)
- Strong analytical skills and attention to detail
- Ability to interact effectively with all levels of staff and management
- Ability to multi-task and work under pressure in a fast-paced environment
- Strong and effective written and verbal communication skills
- Experience with Deltek VantagePoint or SAP software
What We Do
NELSON is an award-winning firm delivering architecture, interior design, graphic design, and brand strategy services that transform all dimensions of the human experience, providing our clients with strategic and creative solutions that positively impact their lives and the environments where they work, serve, play, and thrive.

