Senior Project Accountant

How to use this kit

Ground every answer in facts on this page and the original listing. We never invent Glassdoor-style reviews or salaries that are not in our data.

Interview prep

• Walk through how you report project P&L, WIP, and cost variances to non-finance managers.
• Give an example of finding control gaps, duplicate effort, or non-compliance and what you changed.
• Explain how you set investigation scope when reviewing site or project books.

Fit summary

Strong fit if you have hands-on project accounting on multi-site work and can partner with operations at a large listed services group like Downer. Auckland-based, on-site role; thin public sentiment and pay data for this listing, so validate culture and compensation directly with the recruiter.

Day in the role

As a Senior Project Accountant at Downer in Auckland, you would track project costs, reconcile ledgers, and report asset use and results to managers on live infrastructure or services work. Typical work includes inspecting accounting systems, flagging control gaps or non-compliance, preparing management reports, and conferring with project and finance leaders on financial and regulatory issues.

Skills to emphasize

Build depth in project cost control, audit-ready reporting, and systems efficiency. Free study option: Saylor Academy — Accounting & Finance courses (free).

FAQ from this listing

Is this role remote?

No. The listing is for Auckland, North Island, with remote set to on-site.

What does Downer do?

Downer Group is an ASX/NZX-listed integrated services company active in Australia and New Zealand (ticker DOW).

Where can I learn accounting fundamentals cheaply?

Saylor Academy’s Accounting & Finance courses are free at learn.saylor.org.

Occupation tasks (O*NET)

Public-domain labor data — prepare examples for 2–3 of these.

• Prepare detailed reports on audit findings.
• Report to management about asset utilization and audit results, and recommend changes in operations and financial activities.
• Collect and analyze data to detect deficient controls, duplicated effort, extravagance, fraud, or non-compliance with laws, regulations, and management policies.
• Inspect account books and accounting systems for efficiency, effectiveness, and use of accepted accounting procedures to record transactions.
• Supervise auditing of establishments, and determine scope of investigation required.
• Confer with company officials about financial and regulatory matters.
• Examine and evaluate financial and information systems, recommending controls to ensure system reliability and data integrity.
• Inspect cash on hand, notes receivable and payable, negotiable securities, and canceled checks to confirm records are accurate.

O*NET source

Company facts (cached)

Website: downergroup.com

Downer Group is an integrated services company active in Australia and New Zealand listed on the Australian Securities Exchange and New Zealand Stock Exchange

Public cache only — not an employee review.

Role overview (listing rewrite)

Senior Project Accountant at Downer in Auckland, North Island About This Position We are seeking a Senior Project Accountant to join our Utilities business supporting the Telco NZ portfolio. Reporting to the Finance Business Partner, this role plays a critical part in delivering accurate financial reporting, insightful analysis, and strong commercial support across a portfolio of projects and programs. Day-to-Day Responsibilities Partner closely with operational teams to ensure timely and accurate financial reporting. Conduct insightful analysis to provide strategic financial insights that support business decisions. Ensure compliance with all relevant accounting standards, policies, and procedures. Support the preparation of project budgets, forecasts, and variance analyses. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to identify cost-saving opportunities and improve overall financial performance. Requirements A degree in Accounting or a related field. At least 5 years of experience as a Project Accountant, preferably within the Utilities sector. Strong knowledge of accounting principles, financial reporting standards, and regulatory requirements. Experience with project management software and financial analysis tools is desirable. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to effectively collaborate with cross-functional teams. A proven track record in delivering accurate and timely financial reports. Working at Downer At Downer, we are committed to fostering a collaborative and inclusive environment where our people can thrive. Our culture values innovation, integrity, and sustainability. As part of our team, you will have the opportunity to work on exciting projects that make a positive impact in the community. Ready to Apply? To apply, complete your application directly on this page, or you'll be redirected to the employer's application platform to finish submitting there. Please ensure all required fields are filled out and submit your resume, cover letter, and any relevant certifications or references as prompted.

Full job on Get A Job.AI

Questions to ask them

• What does success look like in the first 90 days for this role?
• How is the team structured, and who would I work with most?
• What tools and systems does this role use daily?
• Is the work primarily based in Auckland, North Island, hybrid, or fully remote?