Interview with Project Accountant - Assignment Example

1- Describe your job. Many times people outside your field have misconceptions, so try and explain what you do. Also, what kind of schedule, days off, etc. do you have?I am a project accountant. I work with a non-governmental organization. My daily duties include maintaining project-related records, including contracts and change orders, authorizing access to project accounts and transfer of expenses into and out of project-related accounts. Reviewing and approving supplier invoices related to the project, time sheets for work related to the project, overhead charges to be applied to the project and account totals related to project assets and expenses.

I also investigate project variances and submit variance reports to management. I work five days a week. I rest during all public holidays.2- What is your favorite part of your job?I enjoy most when I find out that my actual expenditure on the project is in tandem with the projected expenditures. Funds we have for the project are sourced as per the budget.3- What is your least favorite part?Sourcing for more funds when there are large shortfalls in the project is a problem. One has to vary out a lot of convincing.

4- Is there anything that you didn’t expect, something you hadn’t thought about before choosing your present career?Yes, I didn't know that my job will involve meeting with so many different people and a lot of travelling.5- How important is professionalism in your chosen career field? Explain what professionalism means to you and your job.Professionalism is the skill or competence expected from a professional. My job involves observing so many Generally Accepted Accounting Standards, and I have to be professional in observing that.

6- How does your career field interact with other members of the finance industry? What other members do you interact with the closest?Every accountant is bound to follow the international accounting standards meaning that there is a lot of interaction. We also interact with auditors who audit our accounts.7- How do you stay up to date on changes in the industry? How important are seminars and continuing education opportunities?International accounting standards keep on changing, and we are bound to change as they change.

We also have to maintain and keep track of the changing government regulations.8- Where does safety fall in priority in your chosen career field? How does your department continue to improve safety?Safety rules and regulations are vital nowadays in any department. If you come to my office, the first poster on the wall is that of safety.9- Would you recommend your career to others just completing their degree?Of course, it’s a very exciting career path that I will recommend, especially those who want to work with the communities.

10- Do you have any recommendations about how someone new to the industry can get the experience needed to get a job in your field?Most people who are employed are those with community service experience and those who have gone for community-based attachment.