ResumeToolsResources

Construction Accountant Resume Examples

By Silvia Angeloro

Jul 18, 2024

|

12 min read

Master your construction accountant resume: lay the foundation for success and build a career that measures up.

4.70 Average rating

Rated by 348 people

Crafting a compelling construction accountant resume can feel like navigating a complex blueprint. Many construction accountants face the challenge of standing out in a competitive job market. Whether you’re struggling with highlighting your unique skills or unsure how to structure your resume, the struggle is real! Employers want to know how well you manage the financial aspects of construction projects, and your resume is your first chance to prove your worth. This guide is here to help you build a resume that showcases your expertise and lands you that coveted job.

Choosing the right resume template is crucial. It can be the difference between grabbing the hiring manager's attention or getting lost in a pile of applications. A tailored template makes it easy to present your skills, experiences, and achievements in a structured and visually appealing way, ensuring you highlight the most important aspects of your professional background effectively.

We offer more than 700 resume examples to help you get started on writing a standout resume.

Key Takeaways

  • Choosing the right resume template is crucial to presenting your skills and experiences effectively to grab the hiring manager's attention.
  • A construction accountant resume should highlight expertise in managing finances specific to the construction industry, including project costing, budgeting, and compliance with industry regulations.
  • Include key sections such as contact information, professional summary, work experience, education, technical skills, and certifications, with optional sections like professional affiliations and projects.
  • Use the reverse-chronological format, modern fonts, and save your resume as a PDF to maintain formatting and ensure readability across devices.
  • Crafting a well-written experience section that highlights your achievements, rather than just responsibilities, greatly increases your chances of getting called for an interview.

What to focus on when writing your construction accountant resume

A construction accountant resume should convey your expertise in managing finances specific to the construction industry, showcasing your ability to handle project costing, budgeting, and compliance with industry regulations. It should also highlight relevant experience, such as working with construction ERP systems or managing financing for large-scale projects. Employers should easily see your ability to bring financial stability and insight to complex construction operations.

Boost Your Construction Accountant Resume:

  • Mention your experience with job costing, budgeting, and financial forecasting.
  • Highlight any certifications like CPA or CMA that showcase your expertise.
  • Detail your familiarity with construction-specific software like Sage 300 or Procore.
  • Show examples of how you have improved financial performance or operational efficiency in past roles.

Must have information on your construction accountant resume

A great construction accountant resume should feature key sections that highlight your skills and experience.

  • Contact Information
  • Professional Summary
  • Work Experience
  • Education
  • Technical Skills
  • Certifications

Consider additional sections like "Professional Affiliations" and "Projects" to further set yourself apart and showcase your expertise in construction accounting. Including these sections can give you an edge in the competitive job market.

Which resume format to choose

When crafting your construction accountant resume, the best format is the reverse-chronological format because it showcases your experience clearly, which is vital in your industry. Opt for modern fonts like Rubik or Montserrat, as these give a clean and professional look, unlike Arial or Times New Roman which can feel outdated. Always save and send your resume as a PDF to ensure the formatting stays consistent across different devices. Keep your margins to about one inch on all sides to maintain white space and readability. Make section headings clear and concise because they help Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) scan your resume effectively.

Your construction accountant resume should include the essential sections to highlight your qualifications:

  • Contact Information
  • Professional Summary
  • Work Experience
  • Education
  • Certifications
  • Skills
  • Professional Affiliations
  • References

Resume Mentor's free resume builder can handle all of this for you in just a few clicks.

How to write a quantifiable resume experience section

Writing the experience section of your resume as a construction accountant can make a big difference in whether you get a call for an interview. Here, you'll learn how to order your resume, how far back to go with your experience, which job titles to include, and how to tailor your resume to the job you want. You’ll also find out which action words to use and see concrete examples of good and bad resume content.

First, list your most recent job at the top of your experience section. Job titles should reflect your roles accurately. If you worked in a role for a short period, it’s usually better to leave it out unless it adds significant value. Typically, include experience from the past 10-15 years.

Tailor your resume for each job application. Read the job description carefully, and tweak your experience section to match it as much as you can. Use action words like "managed," "led," and "achieved" to keep your resume active and engaging.

Here is an example of a poorly written experience section:

Experience
Construction Accountant
XYZ Construction
New York, NY
Company Description
  • Managed accounts.
  • Prepared budgets.
  • Created financial reports.
Accounting Clerk
ABC Builders
Los Angeles, CA
Company Description
  • Helped with accounts receivable.
  • Reconciled bank statements.
  • Assisted with payroll.

The first example is not effective because the entries are vague and focus mainly on responsibilities without specifying any achievements. There are no numbers to show the impact of your work. This makes it difficult for potential employers to understand the value you brought to your previous roles.

Here is an example of a well-written experience section:

Experience
Senior Construction Accountant
XYZ Construction
New York, NY
Company Description
  • Reduced budget variances by 20% over 2 years.
  • Led a team of 5 accountants to close books within 5 days monthly.
  • Implemented a new accounting software that improved data accuracy by 30%.
Construction Accountant
ABC Builders
Los Angeles, CA
Company Description
  • Managed accounts for projects totaling $50M.
  • Decreased late payments by 15% through improved invoicing procedures.
  • Generated monthly financial reports that provided insights for cost-saving measures.

The second example is strong because it highlights specific achievements. Using numbers shows the impact of your work, making it clear what kind of results you can deliver. This helps employers see the value you will bring to their team. This resume is also tailored, focusing on relevant skills and accomplishments that match what the job description asks for.

Construction accountant resume experience examples

Ready to build a resume that's as strong as concrete? Here's a set of experience sections carefully structured to ensure your skills in construction accounting stand out like a skyscraper on the horizon.

Achievement-focused

Highlight your greatest achievements in the construction accounting industry. Emphasize milestones and how your efforts resulted in success.

Work Experience

Lead Construction Accountant

Precision Builders LLC

June 2016 - Present

  • Increased project profitability by 25% through detailed financial management
  • Spearheaded cost-saving initiatives, reducing overall expenses by $500,000 annually
  • Recognized as 'Employee of the Year' for exceptional performance and dedication

Skills-focused

Show off your top skills relevant to construction accounting that you bring to each project.

Work Experience

Senior Construction Accountant

BuildRight Inc.

March 2014 - April 2018

  • Expert in construction job costing and financial reporting
  • Proficient in using ERP systems and accounting software like Sage 300
  • Strong analytical skills for evaluating complex financial data

Responsibility-focused

Detail the specific responsibilities you managed, showing your capability in handling key tasks.

Work Experience

Construction Accounting Manager

UrbanEdge Constructors

January 2019 - Present

  • Managed financial statements and reconciliations for multiple projects
  • Supervised a team of junior accountants to ensure accuracy and compliance
  • Prepared and presented budget reports to senior management

Project-focused

Concentrate on projects you've worked on and your role within them, emphasizing your contributions.

Work Experience

Project Accountant

GreenBuild Partners

February 2015 - May 2018

  • Oversaw financial operations for a $50 million renovation project
  • Coordinated with project managers to track project expenses
  • Ensured that all invoices and payments adhered to the contract terms

Result-focused

Demonstrate tangible results you have achieved in your previous roles.

Work Experience

Accounting Coordinator

Skyline Constructors

August 2017 - July 2021

  • Reduced invoicing errors by 30% through process improvements
  • Achieved a 98% on-time payment record for subcontractors
  • Increased financial reporting efficiency by implementing new software

Industry-Specific Focus

Emphasize your experience and understanding of the construction industry.

Work Experience

Junior Construction Accountant

BuildTech Solutions

April 2013 - January 2016

  • Handled financial tracking for small to mid-sized construction projects
  • Knowledgeable in industry-specific regulations and compliance
  • Assisted in the preparation of annual financial reports

Problem-Solving focused

Highlight your ability to solve problems and your critical thinking skills in the construction accounting field.

Work Experience

Construction Finance Specialist

Structura Build

May 2019 - Present

  • Resolved complex billing issues, saving the company $200,000
  • Developed a streamlined process for handling late payments
  • Successfully managed financial disputes with vendors and subcontractors

Innovation-focused

Showcase your innovative approaches and improvements you've made in your roles.

Work Experience

Financial Analyst

FutureBuild Corp.

July 2016 - October 2020

  • Introduced a data-driven forecasting model, reducing budget overruns by 18%
  • Implemented a new accounting software that increased productivity by 30%
  • Pioneered a real-time financial tracking system

Leadership-focused

Describe how you've taken on leadership roles and guided teams to success.

Work Experience

Accounting Team Lead

Builders United

September 2014 - June 2018

  • Led a team of five accountants in maintaining project financials
  • Mentored junior staff, enhancing team productivity by 25%
  • Coordinated with cross-functional teams to ensure financial accuracy

Customer-focused

Highlight your focus on customer satisfaction and relationship-building in your accounting roles.

Work Experience

Client Account Manager

CementWorks LLC

January 2017 - November 2019

  • Maintained excellent relationships with key clients, leading to repeat business
  • Quickly addressed client concerns, improving satisfaction ratings
  • Provided detailed financial reports to clients upon request

Growth-focused

Illustrate how you've contributed to the growth of your company through your accounting skills.

Work Experience

Senior Financial Planner

MegaStruct Corp.

March 2018 - Present

  • Developed growth strategies that increased company revenue by 20%
  • Identified new market opportunities through financial analysis
  • Guided financial planning efforts for new projects totaling $15 million

Efficiency-focused

Demonstrate your ability to improve efficiency through accounting processes.

Work Experience

Efficiency Analyst

SwiftBuild Inc.

October 2016 - December 2020

  • Streamlined payroll processes, reducing processing time by 40%
  • Optimized internal auditing procedures for faster turnaround
  • Implemented automated invoicing systems, cutting down manual work

Technology-focused

Detail your experience with technology and accounting software in the construction industry.

Work Experience

Tech-Savvy Accountant

Constructive Insights

June 2015 - August 2019

  • Expert in using Procore and Sage for construction accounting
  • Digitized legacy financial records to enhance accessibility
  • Trained team members on new accounting software

Collaboration-focused

Show how you've worked effectively with other teams and departments.

Work Experience

Collaborative Accountant

Alliance Builders

January 2018 - Present

  • Worked closely with project managers to ensure budget adherence
  • Collaborated with procurement to manage project costs effectively
  • Facilitated communication between accounting and operations departments

Training and Development focused

Highlight your role in training and developing other team members.

Work Experience

Training Coordinator

ConstructCo

February 2016 - May 2020

  • Developed training programs for new accounting staff
  • Conducted workshops on financial best practices
  • Mentored interns and junior accountants, leading to quick skill acquisition

Write your construction accountant resume summary section

To craft a strong resume summary section for a construction accountant, focus on showcasing your skills, experience, and key accomplishments clearly and concisely. A resume summary should be a snapshot of your professional background and what makes you an ideal candidate.

For the best results, describe yourself with action words that highlight your strengths. Words like "skilled," "experienced," "detail-oriented," and "efficient" can help. Use quantifiable achievements to grab attention, such as improving budgeting processes or reducing costs.

A resume summary is different from a resume objective. A resume summary offers a quick overview of who you are and your qualifications. A resume objective focuses on what you aim to achieve in your career. On the other hand, a resume profile blends a summary and objective, giving a brief insight into your skills and ambitions. A summary of qualifications is a bulleted list that highlights top skills and achievements.

Here are examples of resume summaries:

SUMMARY
I'm a construction accountant looking for a job. I'm good with numbers and excel. I have worked in construction for a while. I like teamwork and can learn fast.

The first example is poorly written because it is too vague and lacks specifics. It does not offer any substantial information about your experiences, skills, or achievements. It also reads more like a resume objective than a summary, focusing on what you want rather than what you bring to the table.

SUMMARY
Skilled construction accountant with over 7 years of experience in managing financial records, auditing, and budget analysis. Proven track record of reducing project costs by 15% through efficient budgeting. Proficient in QuickBooks, Excel, and SAP. Known for exceptional attention to detail and strong analytical skills. Excellent communicator and team player.

The second example is well-crafted and detailed, providing clear evidence of your capabilities and achievements. It focuses on specific skills and quantifiable accomplishments that highlight your value. This summary effectively showcases your professional background and suitability for the role, making it likely to catch an employer's eye.

By investing time in crafting a detailed and impressive resume summary, you set the stage for a compelling resume that can make you stand out to potential employers.

Listing your construction accountant skills on your resume

When writing your skills section for a construction accountant resume, it’s essential to highlight your strengths and relevant skills. Skills can be presented in a standalone section, but they can also be blended into other sections such as experience and summary.

Your strengths and soft skills are personal attributes that demonstrate how well you interact with others and adapt to different situations. Hard skills, on the other hand, are specific, teachable abilities or knowledge sets acquired through practice and education, like proficiency in specific accounting software or understanding construction contracts.

Incorporating skills and strengths as resume keywords is vital because it helps your resume stand out to both hiring managers and Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS). Using keywords ensures that your resume matches the job description, increasing the chances of getting noticed.

Here is an example of a standalone skills section in JSON format:

Skills
Project Management
Cost Estimation
Budgeting
Financial Reporting
GAAP Compliance
Accounts Payable/Receivable
Microsoft Excel
QuickBooks

This skills section is effective because it includes relevant and specific hard skills necessary for a construction accountant role. It’s clear, concise, and easy to scan, which helps both hiring managers and ATS systems quickly recognize your qualifications.

Best hard skills to feature on your construction accountant resume

A construction accountant should have hard skills that highlight their proficiency in managing finances in a construction setting. These skills should communicate your ability to handle financial tasks, budgeting, and reporting specific to construction projects.

Hard Skills

  • Project Management
  • Cost Estimation
  • Budgeting
  • Financial Reporting
  • GAAP Compliance
  • Accounts Payable/Receivable
  • Construction Accounting Software (e.g., Sage 300)
  • Microsoft Excel
  • QuickBooks
  • Audit Preparation
  • Contract Review
  • Payroll Management
  • Fixed Asset Accounting
  • Tax Compliance
  • Risk Management

Best soft skills to feature on your construction accountant resume

A construction accountant should possess soft skills that demonstrate their ability to work well with a team and handle the dynamic nature of construction projects. These skills should communicate your interpersonal abilities and your adaptability.

Soft Skills

  • Communication
  • Problem-Solving
  • Time Management
  • Attention to Detail
  • Analytical Thinking
  • Organization
  • Teamwork
  • Adaptability
  • Leadership
  • Negotiation
  • Multi-tasking
  • Integrity
  • Critical Thinking
  • Stress Management
  • Customer Service

How to include your education on your resume

An education section is an important part of your construction accountant resume. It shows employers your qualifications and background in education. This section should be tailored to the job you're applying for. Don't include any irrelevant education that doesn't relate to construction accounting.

When listing your degree, write out the full name and include the institution and location. If your GPA is strong, include it. Usually, a GPA above 3.5 is worth mentioning. "Cum laude" honors can also boost your resume, so be sure to add them if you received such distinction.

Here is a badly written education section:

Education
Worked on high school diploma, didn't finish
City High

This example is bad because it includes incomplete education with no degree, lacks relevance to construction accounting, and does not add value for a potential employer. Moreover, there is no mention of GPA or honors.

Here is an outstanding construction accountant resume education section example:

Education
Bachelor of Science in Accounting
University of Arkansas
Little Rock, AR
GPA
3.8
/
4.0
  • Graduated cum laude

This example is good because it is specific, relevant, and highlights a strong GPA of 3.8. Mentioning the cum laude honor demonstrates exceptional academic performance. This information helps potential employers see your qualifications and dedication.

How to include construction accountant certificates on your resume

Including a certificates section on your construction accountant resume is vital as it showcases your specialized qualifications. Certificates demonstrate your commitment and up-to-date skills. You can choose to include this section in the header for maximum visibility.

To do that, list the name of each certificate, include the date you received it, and add the issuing organization. This makes it clear and easy for employers to spot your qualifications quickly.

For example:

CERTIFICATIONS
Certified Construction Accountant (CCA)
National Association of Construction Auditors
Certified Public Accountant (CPA)
American Institute of CPAs

This example is effective because it clearly lists credible and relevant certificates for a construction accountant. Each entry includes the title and the issuing body, both essential for validating your expertise. Keeping this section concise but detailed enhances your resume's impact, making it easy for employers to see your professional development in construction accounting.

Extra sections to include in your construction accountant resume

Crafting a standout resume as a construction accountant involves highlighting your skills and experiences, but including sections that show your personality and dedication can make a difference. You're not just a collection of numbers and ledger entries; you're a multifaceted individual with diverse skills and interests.

  • Language section — Show your proficiency in multiple languages. This can be an asset, especially if you work with diverse teams.
  • Hobbies and interests section — List your hobbies to show what you enjoy. Showing your interests paints a fuller picture of who you are.
  • Volunteer work section — Share your volunteer efforts to highlight your commitment to the community. Volunteering demonstrates your willingness to go above and beyond.
  • Books section — Mention any relevant books you've read. This shows your dedication to continuous learning and staying updated in your field.

Pair your construction accountant resume with a cover letter

A cover letter is a one-page document that accompanies your resume when you apply for a job. It's meant to introduce yourself to the hiring manager and explain why you're the best fit for the position. A good cover letter can set you apart from other applicants by providing additional details about your skills and experiences. It helps the employer understand your personality, motivation, and how you’ll contribute to their team.

For a construction accountant, the cover letter should focus on your experience with financial management and budgeting in the construction industry. Highlight your skills in cost analysis, job cost reporting, audits, and compliance with financial regulations. Mention any relevant software you’ve used, like QuickBooks or Sage, and how your education prepared you for this role. You might also detail any significant projects you’ve worked on and their financial outcomes, showing tangible results of your work.

Ready to make your cover letter? Use Resume Mentor's cover letter builder for an easy and quick process. With PDF exporting, your content and formatting will always be protected.

Oliver Davis

New York City, New York

+1-(234)-555-1234

help@resumementor.com


Dear Hiring Manager,

I am writing to express my interest in the Construction Accountant position at your esteemed company. Your commitment to innovation and excellence in construction finance aligns seamlessly with my professional background, making this opportunity particularly compelling.

During my tenure at Skanska USA, I implemented a new billing system that reduced our billing cycle time by 20%, significantly enhancing cash flow efficiency. This achievement required meticulous attention to detail, precise financial reporting, and effective collaboration with both project teams and subcontractors—skills that I am eager to bring to your organization.

I look forward to the possibility of discussing how my experience and skills can contribute to your team. Please feel free to contact me at your earliest convenience to schedule an interview.

Sincerely,

Oliver Davis

Construction Accountant
Side Banner Cta Image

Make job-hunting a breeze!

Build your resume and focus on finding the right job

Build Resume