Principal Accountant

The position is located in [Sells, AZ].

Position Summary:

Under limited supervision, performs complex work of considerable difficulty in accounting and financial analysis.

The work is normally reviewed upon completion to ensure compliance with general organization/department goals, policies and procedures. Major work activities are covered by procedures or guidelines permitting flexibility in selecting methods to utilize and procedures to follow, determination of work priorities, and the planning and coordination of projects.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities (Depending on area of assignment, incumbent may not be required to perform some of the duties listed below.):

• Establishes and maintains accounting records and financial documentation by making journal entries, preparing trial balances, and making bank reconciliation.
• Maintains researches, gathers information, prepares and mails out checks and per capita payouts; verifies payments and requests stop payment and/or reissues checks, as required; works closely with departments and other entities, such as Enrollment Office, Social Security Office, Department of Economic Security and other tribal entities.
• Prepares entries to accounts by compiling and analyzing financial information and prepare journal voucher entries.
• Assists in the summation and interpretation of current and projected financial position of the Nation by analyzing financial information detailing assets, liabilities, and capital; prepares balance sheets, and profit and loss statements.
• Coordinates implementation of accounting systems and accounting control procedures recommending modifications and updates in accordance with needs of the Nation and applicable regulations.
• Upon analysis prepares and presents recommendations regarding the accounting of reserves, assets and expenditures.
• Prepares and ensures accuracy of federal, state, and local reports and tax returns by collecting and analyzing appropriate data.
• Assists in the closing and adjustment of accounts by determining necessary entries to reflect information not recorded or posted to the division's accounting system. Determines and identifies sources of errors or discrepancies and initiates corrective actions as required.
• Develops forms, manuals or work procedures designed to guide the activities of accounting support staff that post data and maintain records.
• Prepares inter-fund transfers, payroll checks, or vendor checks on an as needed basis.
• Responds to questions and inquiries from departments, programs, and external entities regarding established accounting policies and procedures.
• Maintain professional and technical knowledge by attending seminars, educational workshops, classes and conferences; reviewing professional publications; establishing networks; participating in professional societies; conferring with representatives of contracting agencies and related organizations.
• Provides assistance to departments regarding accounting policies and procedures and in resolving accounting and financial problems.
• Assists in the preparation of financial reporting activities and coordination of audits.
• Reviews and approves accounting transactions for input to the various financial systems.
• Participates in complex fiscal, financial, and accounting problems which have significant impact on the Nation's financial condition and/or operations, as assigned.
• Performs other job related duties as assigned and contributes to a team effort.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Knowledge of the Tohono O'odham culture, customs, and traditions.
• Knowledge of standard fund accounting principles and practices in the areas of journal entries and vouchers, reconciliation, budgeting, taxation, auditing, and payroll.
• Knowledge of Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP) and appropriate local, state, and federal regulations and requirements.
• Knowledge of PL-638 contracts and other types of contracts.
• Knowledge of current data processing principles and applications for fiscal and financial systems.
• Knowledge of applicable federal, state, tribal laws, regulations and requirements.
• Knowledge of the principles of fiscal, financial, and accounting analyses.
• Skill in using computerized accounting software programs, i.e. Fundware, and advanced skills in word-processing, spreadsheets, and database software.
• Skill in statistical compilation and analysis.
• Skill in applying mathematical concepts to practical situations.
• Skill in providing superior customer service to external and internal customers.
• Ability to prepare clear and comprehensive fiscal analyses and reports.
• Ability to direct complex accounting systems, set work priorities and multitask.
• Ability to effectively apply data processing resources.
• Ability to communicate efficiently and effectively both verbally and in writing.
• Ability to establish and maintain positive and effective working relationships with other employees and the general public.
• Ability to maintain privileged confidential information.
• Ability to work independently and meet strict time lines.
• Ability to work extended hours and various work schedules.

Minimum Qualifications:

Bachelor's Degree in Accounting, Finance or related field, and two years professional experience in accounting or financial management, or an equivalent combination of training, education, and work experience which demonstrates the ability to perform the duties of this position.

Licenses, Certifications, Special Requirements:

• Upon recommendation for hire, a criminal background check is required to determine suitability for hire, including a 39-month Motor Vehicle Record.
• May require possessing and maintaining a valid driver's license, (no DUIs or major traffic citations within the last three years).
• If required, must meet the Tohono O'odham Nation tribal employer's insurance requirements to receive a driver's permit to operate program vehicles.
• Based on the department's needs, incumbents may be required to demonstrate fluency in both the Tohono O'odham Language and English as a condition of employment.