At SG Elite Ltd, we are driving innovation in civil engineering across the UK and Ireland.
With a strong focus on the railway sector, we are proud to deliver high-quality infrastructure projects which help shape and positively impact communities and industry.
Job Summary
We are seeking a proactive and detail-oriented Accounts Assistant to join the finance team in our growing civil engineering company. In this role, you will assist with the financial operations and ensure smooth accounting processes related to projects, client billing, vendor payments, and internal financial reporting. The ideal candidate will have a strong understanding of both basic accounting principles and the unique financial needs of the construction and civil engineering industry.
Key Accountabilities
* Invoice Management:
Prepare and process invoices for clients and subcontractors, ensuring timely billing and accuracy in project costs
* Project Accounting Support
: Assist in tracking project budgets, costs, and revenue to ensure project financials align with company forecasts
* Accounts Payable & Receivable:
Handle day-to-day accounts payable and receivable transactions, including processing payments to suppliers and ensuring client payments are received on time
* Reconciliation:
Reconcile supplier accounts, credit card transactions, and bank statements to ensure all financial data is accurate
* Cost Tracking:
Support project managers by helping to maintain detailed records of project expenses, including materials, labour, and subcontractor costs
* General Ledger Entries:
Assist in posting journal entries and updating the general ledger as required
* Financial Reporting:
Help prepare financial reports related to cash flow, project performance, and budget variance. Support month-end and year-end close processes
* Tax and Compliance Support:
Support the finance team with tax calculations and ensuring compliance with tax regulations, particularly around VAT and subcontractor CIS payments
* Payroll Assistance:
Provide support for payroll processing, including timesheet data entry for project staff
* Audit Assistance:
Aid with the preparation of documents for audits and compliance reviews
* Compliance:
Ensure compliance with company policies and accounting regulations
* Admin Support:
Perform general finance-related administrative duties such as filing, document organization, and updating financial databases
Experience & Qualifications
* Previous experience in an Accounts Assistant or finance support role (ideally within the construction or civil engineering sector)
* Basic understanding of construction project financials and cost management
* Familiarity with accounting software (e.g., Sage, QuickBooks, Xero)
* Microsoft Office/Microsoft 365
* Strong attention to detail, accuracy, and organizational skills
* Ability to prioritize tasks and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment
* Knowledge of basic accounting principles, particularly VAT, CIS (Construction Industry Scheme), and project-based accounting
* Excellent communication skills, with the ability to collaborate with internal teams, clients, and suppliers
* Ability to work independently and handle multiple projects simultaneously
* AAT qualification or equivalent (or working towards it) is a plus
Desirable experience
* Operational/working knowledge of Xero financial software
* Understanding of civil engineering contract types (e.g. lump sum, time & materials, etc.)
* Previous experience with construction project costings, contract management, and reporting
* Knowledge of industry-specific regulations and compliance standards
Hours
Monday to Friday - 38 hours per week
Benefits
* Competitive Salary
* Annual leave entitlement of 30 days including public holidays
* Flexible working hours
* Ongoing training and personal development opportunities