Senior Accountant

Position Summary

Mustang Special Utility District (“Mustang”) is a local governmental entity providing water and water reclamation utility service in Denton, Collin, and Grayson Counties of North Texas. We are the largest Special Utility District in Texas and in one of the fastest-growing areas of the country. Comprising over 38,000 connections over 220 sq. miles. Our motto is Second to None! Providing Life’s Precious Resource. We’re looking for a key person to join our team as a Senior Accountant

The following consists of a general description of the expectations of this position and is not intended to be all-inclusive, but rather, to highlight and describe the general nature and level of work to be performed. This document should not  be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of the incumbent. The incumbent will be required to follow any other instructions and to perform any other reasonably related job duties and responsibilities requested by their supervisor. Mustang reserves the right to revise or change the job duties and responsibilities, and this Job Description may be updated accordingly. This position is at-will, and this Job Description does not constitute a written or implied contract of employment.

The Senior Accountant is a critical member of the Finance Department, responsible for performing advanced accounting functions that support Mustang Special Utility District's financial stability and operational excellence. Reporting directly to the Financial Services Manager, this role oversees general ledger reconciliations, accounts payable and receivable functions, and financial reporting. The Senior Accountant plays a key role in maintaining accurate financial records, analyzing financial data, and ensuring compliance with applicable regulations. This position also provides essential support for the preparation of annual budgets and audits, contributing to the overall financial strategy of Mustang Special Utility District. A detail-oriented mindset, exceptional analytical skills, and a proactive approach to problem-solving are essential for success in this role.

Essential Functions, Duties, and Responsibilities:

The following “Essential Functions” are the primary job duties that incumbent must be able to perform unassisted or with some reasonable accommodation by the employer.

Essential Functions: 

• Financial Reporting and Analysis: Prepare and analyze monthly and annual financial statements to ensure accuracy and compliance with regulatory standards.  Monitor financial performance by highlighting trends, variances, and actionable insights for decision-making. Assist with external audit and preparation of the Annual Comprehensive Financial Report (ACFR) in accordance with GASB standards.
• General Ledger Maintenance and Account Reconciliation: Oversee the maintenance and reconciliation of the general ledger, ensuring all financial transactions are accurately recorded. Prepare and review journal entries, ensuring proper documentation and adherence to accounting principles. Reconcile key accounts, such as cash, investments, receivables, payables, and fixed assets, on a regular basis to maintain financial integrity. 
• Accounts Payable and Accounts Receivable Oversight: Oversee the processing of accounts payable and accounts receivable to ensure timely and accurate payment cycles. Review and approve invoices, ensuring proper coding and compliance with procurement policies. 
• Collaboration and Cross-Departmental Support: Work closely with department leaders to address financial needs, resolve issues, and improve reporting processes. Provide guidance to staff on accounting policies, coding requirements, and financial documentation standards. Serve as a resource for department heads, assisting with budget preparation and financial forecasting.

• Special Projects and Continuous Improvement: Lead or participate in special projects aimed at improving financial processes, reporting, or operational efficiency. Provide financial analysis and support for strategic initiatives, grants, or funding opportunities. Foster a culture of continuous improvement within the finance department.

Position Specifications:

This position is classified as Exempt under the provisions of the Fair Labor Standards Act and is not subject to the organization’s policies and procedures pertaining to overtime hours.

Education:

Required:

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field from an accredited institution.

Preferred:

• Coursework or certifications in governmental accounting or public sector finance.

Experience:

Required:

• At least 3 years of progressive experience in accounting or financial management, including general ledger maintenance, reconciliations, and financial reporting.

Preferred:

• Experience in governmental or utility accounting with knowledge of GASB standards.
• Familiarity with managing financial systems and software used in the public sector.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Advanced Accounting Knowledge: Thorough understanding of accounting principles, practices, and standards, including Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP) and Governmental Accounting Standards Board (GASB) guidelines.
• Financial Analysis and Reporting Expertise: Strong ability to analyze financial data, prepare comprehensive reports, and provide insights to support decision-making.
• Proficiency in Financial Software and Systems: Skilled in utilizing accounting software, enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems, and Microsoft Excel for financial management and reporting.
• Attention to Detail and Accuracy: Exceptional focus on detail to ensure accuracy in financial records, reconciliations, and reporting.
• Problem-Solving and Critical Thinking: Ability to identify financial discrepancies, assess risks, and implement practical solutions.
• Strong Communication Skills: Capable of effectively presenting financial information and explaining complex financial concepts to non-financial stakeholders.
• Time Management and Organization: Ability to prioritize tasks, meet deadlines, and manage multiple responsibilities in a fast-paced environment.
• Collaboration and Teamwork: Proven ability to work collaboratively with cross-functional teams, department heads, and external auditors to achieve organizational goals.

Training/Professional Development Requirements:

• Continuing Education in Accounting Standards: Participate in training programs and seminars focused on updates to GASB, GAAP, and other relevant accounting standards.

• Technology Training: Stay current with financial software, ERP systems, and advanced Excel features through online courses or in-person training.

• Leadership and Communication Development: Attend workshops or seminars that strengthen leadership, communication, and presentation skills for effective cross-departmental collaboration.

Visual Acuity, Hearing, Speaking, Manual Dexterity:

• Visual Acuity: Ability to read and analyze detailed financial reports, spreadsheets, and regulatory documents both in digital and printed formats.

• Hearing and Speaking: Requires clear verbal communication skills to interact effectively with department heads, auditors, and external stakeholders. Must be capable of active listening during discussions and financial presentations to accurately address questions or concerns.

• Manual Dexterity: Proficient use of computers, financial software, calculators, and other office tools for extended periods. Ability to prepare financial documents and manipulate data in spreadsheets efficiently.

Mental Demand:

• Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving: Requires the ability to analyze complex financial data, identify discrepancies, and develop actionable solutions.

• High Attention to Detail: Must maintain a high degree of focus to ensure accuracy in financial reporting, reconciliations, and compliance tasks.

• Decision-Making Under Pressure: Ability to prioritize tasks and make informed decisions within tight deadlines during audits or critical financial cycles.

• Adaptability and Resilience: Requires flexibility to adjust to changing priorities and financial challenges, maintaining composure in high-pressure situations.

Environment/Working Conditions:

• Office-Based Role: Primarily operates in a professional office setting, requiring extended periods of sitting, typing, and focus on detailed tasks.

• Collaborative Work Environment: Involves frequent interaction with team members, department heads, and external auditors in a structured, collaborative workspace.

• Technology-Driven: Heavy reliance on computers, financial software, and virtual communication tools to manage and report financial data.

• Occasional Overtime: May require extended hours during peak financial periods, such as audits or year-end reporting.

Conditions Of Employment:

• Must have a valid Class "C" Driver's License before employment (must obtain Texas Class "C" driver's license within 30 days of hire per state law).
• Must pass a drug test, criminal history background check, and social security number verification check.

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of this job. Mustang SUD is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Applicants are considered for positions for which they have applied without regard to any characteristics protected by law. These general guidelines do not constitute an exhaustive list of qualifications or essential functions of the position. All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to color, race, religion, national origin, age (over 40), physical or mental disability, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity, and sexual orientation), citizenship, veteran’s status, genetic information or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state or local laws.