Join Our Skilled Workforce
PENN is always seeking talented professionals for our steel erection, fabrication, and rebar installation teams. Open positions span a variety of skill levels, from entry-level ironworkers to experienced fabricators and site supervisors.
Current Opportunities
Penn is on the search for talent. If any of these positions appeal to you, contact us for more information on available positions in Chicago and St. Louis. We encourage candidates to explore positions in:
Location: St Louis, MO or Palatine IL
Status: Full-Time
We are seeking a hands-on Senior Accountant / Accounting Manager to join our growing team. This role combines day-to-day accounting leadership with the opportunity to help implement new ERP and payroll systems, improve processes, and support financial strategy.
Position Summary
The Senior Accountant / Accounting Manager is a key member of the Finance team responsible for overseeing core accounting operations, payroll, financial reporting, compliance, and system implementations.
This individual will play a critical role in ensuring accurate financial reporting, regulatory compliance, and operational efficiency while supporting growth initiatives, including new ERP implementations and reporting enhancements.
Key Responsibilities
Accounting & Financial Reporting
· Manage general accounting functions including GL, AR, AP, and account reconciliations
· Prepare monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements and reports
· Lead consolidation processes across entities and divisions
· Support budgeting, forecasting, and variance analysis
· Assist in the preparation of Board of Directors and management reporting packages
· Ensure compliance with GAAP, including lease accounting under ASC 842
Payroll, Benefits & Compliance
· Monitor end-to-end payroll processing (administrative and field/fabrication) ensuring accuracy and compliance
· Maintain payroll records with strict confidentiality
· Ensure compliance with multi-state payroll tax regulations and filings (federal, state, local)
· Administer and account for employee benefits including 401(k), health insurance, garnishments, and deductions
· Maintain and support compliance with HR regulations, company policy, and reporting requirements
· Assist with interpretation and administration of Union Collective Bargaining Agreements
Construction Accounting & Project Support
· Manage construction accounting functions including:
o Job costing and cost tracking
o Work-in-Progress (WIP) reporting
o Progress billings (AIA and non-AIA) with supporting documentation such as lien waivers, affidavits, and labor reports
· Maintain job matrix by reviewing contracts to determine billing terms, reporting requirements, and payment structures
· Track and allocate inventory costs and project expenses
Cash Management & Accounts Receivable
· Manage cash flow, bank reconciliations, and cash forecasting
· Monitor and maintain AR aging schedules; lead collection efforts
· Confirm payments and manage external reporting systems (e.g., compliance or contractor systems)
· Prepare credit applications and support credit management activities
Tax & Regulatory Compliance
· Ensure accurate and timely filing of:
o Payroll taxes (multi-state)
o Sales and use tax
o Tangible property / business taxes
o Other state and federal filings
· Support audits (financial, tax, workers’ compensation, and external audits)
· Perform weekly workers’ compensation calculations and required submissions
ERP Systems & Process Improvement
· Serve as a key resource in ERP implementation and optimization for accounting and forecasting systems
· Assist with selection and implementation of payroll/timekeeping/union reporting systems
· Design and develop financial and operational reports within ERP systems
· Identify process inefficiencies and implement improvements to enhance accuracy and scalability
Team Collaboration & Leadership
· Collaborate closely with Finance, HR, Operations, and Project teams
· Act as a subject matter expert across accounting, payroll, and compliance functions
· Support training of internal stakeholders on financial systems and processes
· Contribute to a team-oriented environment while also working independently
Qualifications & Experience
· Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field (CPA preferred)
· 7+ years of progressive accounting experience, preferably in construction or project-based environments
· Strong knowledge of:
- GAAP and financial reporting
- Construction accounting (WIP, job costing)
- Payroll processing and multi-state tax compliance
· Experience with audits, budgeting, and financial analysis
· Proficiency with ERP/accounting systems (e.g., Sage, or similar platforms)
· Advanced Excel skills (pivot tables, reporting, analysis)
· Experience working with union environments and CBAs preferred
Key Competencies
· Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
· High attention to detail and accuracy
· Self-starter with a hands-on approach
· Ability to meet tight deadlines and manage competing priorities
· Strong communication and interpersonal skills
· High level of integrity and ability to handle confidential information
Work Environment & Expectations
· Ability to work both independently and collaboratively
· Flexibility to meet payroll, reporting, and project deadlines
· Willingness to support system implementations and process changes
· Comfortable operating in a dynamic, growth-oriented environment
Supports project execution by assisting with planning, scheduling, documentation, submittals, and coordination between the field, vendors, and management. Works closely with Project Managers to help ensure projects are delivered efficiently, safely, and in accordance with contract requirements.
Responsible for the overall planning, execution, and successful completion of construction projects. Manages schedules, budgets, subcontractors, and client communication while ensuring quality, safety, and performance standards are met from project start through closeout.
Develops accurate and competitive cost estimates for steel fabrication and erection projects. Reviews drawings and specifications, performs quantity takeoffs, evaluates material and labor costs, and collaborates with vendors and project teams to support successful bids.
Leads the company’s safety program by developing policies, conducting training, and performing jobsite inspections. Ensures compliance with safety regulations while promoting a proactive safety culture that protects employees, partners, and clients.