Project Accountant

Organization:

Golden State Connect Authority (GSCA) is leading a transformative initiative to expand broadband access in underserved areas across rural California. With a substantial project budget, funded by California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) state grants, federal programs, and fixed-income bonds, and with the partnership of UTOPIA Fiber, GSCA is committed to building and maintaining a world-class Open Access fiber network. This position offers the opportunity to manage the financial and administrative foundation of a mission-critical project that will have a lasting impact on California rural communities.

Position Overview:

The Project Accountant in coordination with Finance Director will oversee all financial aspects of GSCA’s fiber network project, ensuring compliance with grant requirements, state and federal funding guidelines, and accounting best practices. This individual will manage the project budget, coordinate closely with the UTOPIA Fiber Finance and Administration Team, Outside Plant (OSP) construction teams, and prepare quarterly updates to as required by bondholders. With assistance from the UTOPIA Fiber Finance and Administration Team and Finance Director they will be responsible for maintaining financial health throughout the project lifecycle, from construction to full operation, ensuring accurate reporting of inventory, assets, and financial performance.

This recruitment is open until it is filled. GSCA is managed by Rural County Representatives of California (RCRC), and employment for this position will be with RCRC. Interested applicants should submit a resume and any relevant supporting materials for consideration to mdemelo@rcrcnet.org.

Full job description here: Project Accountant Position

• Education & Experience:
• • Bachelor’s  or Associate’s degree in Finance, Accounting, Business Administration, or a related field, or.
  • 5+ years of progressively responsible financial management experience, preferably involving large-scale infrastructure projects, public sector funding, and grant administration.
• Technical Expertise:
  • Experience with accounting best practices, inventory management, and asset tracking in capital-intensive projects.
• Communication and Reporting:
  • Strong ability to prepare and deliver clear, concise reports and presentations for executives and stakeholders.
  • Proven ability to translate complex financial data into actionable insights for diverse audiences.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience in fiber network or telecommunications projects.
• Familiarity with California funding programs and regulatory requirements.
• Advanced financial certifications (e.g. , PMP).
• Knowledge of state and federal grant compliance and public financing mechanisms, including bond management.
• Experience working closely with construction teams to align financial planning with project timelines and milestones.
• Familiarity with cost analysis and financial controls for large-scale infrastructure builds.

Key Competencies:

• Highly analytical, detail-oriented, and organized.
• Exceptional leadership and collaboration skills.
• Proactive problem-solver with the ability to anticipate and address financial risks.
• Proactively researching and educating oneself on new topics relevant to the role.
• Strong understanding of public-sector funding and infrastructure finance.