Our client located in San Diego is seeking a highly motivated Lead Senior Accountant to play a key role in managing a small portfolio of project books while supervising a Staff Accountant. Under the direction of the Senior Accounting Manager, you'll ensure the accuracy and integrity of project accounting records in accordance with GAAP and the company's internal policies. You'll also act as a bridge between the Accounting department and our Property and Asset Management teams to promote alignment and deliver consistent, high-quality financial reporting.
This role is ideal for an experienced accountant with a strong background in project accounting, job costing, and team leadership. The ideal candidate is detail-oriented, proactive, and thrives in a fast-paced environment with the ability to manage competing priorities.
Compensation: $100k to 110k base +bonus opportunities + competitive benefits package
Please note this range is an estimate and actual pay may vary based on qualifications and experience.
Key Responsibilities:
- Supervise and mentor a Staff Accountant, providing regular feedback and professional development support
- Review and verify financial reports from third-party property accountants; communicate and resolve discrepancies in a timely manner
- Partner with the Senior Accounting Manager on the proper accounting treatment of complex transactions such as acquisitions, dispositions, and reorganizations
- Support and coordinate audits related to funds, assets, and financial statements
- Serve as the primary escalation point for accounting issues; work cross-functionally to develop solutions and prevent recurrence
- Assist in preparing and submitting required financial reports to investors, lenders, housing authorities, and other stakeholders
- Review and validate monthly bank draw packages, including invoices and lien releases
- Run project reports and verify contract commitments; communicate inconsistencies to the Contracts Team or management
- Provide key financial data to the Asset Management team to support cash flow and budget decisions
- Monitor and confirm cash balances; calculate and communicate funds available for quarterly distributions
- Review relevant agreements (operating, management, legal) to maintain a strong understanding of each project's structure and requirements
- Collaborate with internal departments to streamline processes and support company-wide initiatives
- Identify and resolve accounting or processing errors; follow through to ensure long-term solutions
- Perform ad hoc analysis and contribute to special projects as needed
Requirements:
- Bachelor's degree in Accounting or related field
- 4+ years in public accounting/audit with real estate clients or 5+ years as a senior accountant with hands-on property accounting experience in a multifamily real estate firm
- Solid understanding of GAAP and experience managing junior staff
- Proficient in Microsoft Office, with advanced Excel skills preferred
- Familiarity with ERP systems like Sage 300 CRE or Yardi is preferred
- Strong communication, organization, and ability to manage multiple priorities
- Knowledge of multitiered partnership structures is a plus
- Professional, dependable, and team-oriented
Sayva Solutions is an accounting, finance, and technology professional services firm whose focus is on long-term relationships created through teamwork and doing what is in the best interest of others. By working with Sayva to identify your next career move, you will get the benefit of working with an experienced team who not only has a strong network of trusted clients but expertise in the markets and functions we serve. We can provide insight on what your market value is, what companies have to offer, and what opportunities align best with your professional and personal goals. We are your trusted advisor throughout your search process and can help ensure you are prepared for interviews, have the information to make the best decisions, and receive a strong offer to land you that perfect job. Making a career move is not easy and can be stressful; Sayva can be your partner in making the process smooth, transparent, and rewarding.