Senior Accountant

POSITION OVERVIEW

The senior accountant coordinates and performs a variety of complex accounting, administrative, reporting, and finance functions in maintaining the fiscal records and systems of the city. The position provides daily oversight for activities of the finance department, including the city’s accounting and financial reporting systems, accounts payable and receivable, cash management and investments, and customer service. 

The senior accountant establishes and maintains effective working relationships with the mayor, city council, department heads, finance department staff, peers, vendors, and the general public.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

The job duties and responsibilities represented in this job description do not imply that these are the only duties to be performed. Employees will be required to follow any other job-related instructions and to undertake other projects consistent with the role as requested by a supervisor.

• Assists the finance director with evaluating and monitoring department workflow and allocates work assignments to staff.
• Leads the work of the finance technicians; recommends training and development; and offers technical and procedural assistance as required.
• Assists the finance director with preparation of the city’s biennial budget and financial report, ensuring accurate representation of financial information and compliance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP) for governmental agencies, as well as other federal, state, and local reporting requirements.
• Consults with and assists other city departments regarding financial data interpretation, internal control systems and issues regarding interface with the city’s accounting system.
• In conjunction with the finance director, serves as city liaison to the State Auditor’s office; responsible for coordinating, facilitating, planning, and providing information for the annual state audit.
• Prepares a variety of complex financial reports including monthly, quarterly, and annual finance reports.
• Monitors accounting and control systems of department; reviews and implements improvements to system and controls.
• Assists and acts on behalf of the finance director as required.
• Serves as the lead for finance technicians and may review results of their work. 
• May support in leading part-time, temporary, or intern personnel within the division.
• Maintains punctual and reliable attendance.

KEY COMPETENCIES

Knowledge of:

• GAAP and practices of public finance, accounting, auditing and Washington State BARS accounting system.
• Computers, computerized accounting systems, and spreadsheets

Ability to:

• Communicate effectively with other employees and the public, individually and in groups, verbally in-person and by phone, and in writing.
• Perform basic mathematical calculations including addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division.
• Analyze and draw actionable conclusions from financial information.
• Apply judgment and discretion in resolving problems and interpreting policies.
• Manage assigned responsibilities with competing demands, shifting priorities, and strict deadlines.
• Understand, interpret, and apply legal and financial documents, rules, and regulations.
• Work independently from general instructions and broad work expectations.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job.

Work is primarily performed in a climate-controlled office or conference room setting with a moderate/minimal noise level.

Schedule: Typical business hours are Monday-Friday from 8am-5pm with a one-hour meal break. Alternative work arrangements may be available as decided by the finance director following the probationary period.

Driving and Travel: Driving would typically be less than 1 hour per workweek. Travel may be required to visit other work sites in the area and to attend meetings, trainings, and/or conferences as needed. 

QUALIFICATIONS

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

Any combination of education, training and experience that indicates the individual can successfully perform the job may be considered.

• Bachelor’s degree in business, accounting, or related field.
• Five (5) years of progressively responsible professional accounting work in a municipal environment.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite.

CERTIFICATES AND LICENSES

The following certifications and licenses are required for the position (or must be obtained within the timeframe stated) and must be maintained for the duration of employment.

• A valid Washington State driver’s license (or ability to obtain one within 30 days of hire).
• Certified Public Accountant (CPA) license or Certified Government Financial Manager designation preferred.

PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTICS 

The physical attributes described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.

Sitting and/or standing for extended periods of time. Performs close computer work with repetitive motion for long periods of time; talk, listen, and hear. Required to stand, walk, and use hands to finger, handle, or feel. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus. Occasionally they may be required to kneel, reach, bend, crouch, twist, squat, and lift up to five pounds. 

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS

• A history of and ability to maintain safe and responsible driving that meets the city’s motor vehicle record minimum driving requirements.
• Ability to pass position relevant pre-employment screening.

The requirements outlined in this job description may be modified to reasonably accommodate individuals with disabilities who are otherwise qualified for employment.

This job description does not constitute an employment agreement between the employer and employee and is subject to change by the employer as the needs of the employer and requirements of the position change.