Utilities Department Accountant

Reporting to the Supervisor, Utilities Accounting, the Utilities Department Accountant I is responsible for the department’s financial accounting and reporting functions. This includes analyzing, tracking, and reporting of department revenues and expenditures, performing month end journal entries, and preparing recurring and non-recurring receivables invoices for utilities customers. This position plays a key role in maintaining internal controls over cash and cash handling procedures by reconciling and recording Utilities cash deposits. This position provides expertise to the department in managing the annual operating budget by providing information to the Department Managers and Supervisors.

The Accountant I is responsible for ensuring financial planning, monitoring and reporting functions occur effectively and confirm to applicable policies and procedures. This position provides expertise to the department in managing the annual operating budget by providing information and advice of a financial nature to the Department Managers and Supervisors. 

 This posting is for 1 temporary full-time position up to 18 months

Key Responsibilities:

• Assist with the preparation of the department operating budget and financial reporting activities
• Prepare and input complex accruals and journal entries for various utilities revenue and expense activities
• Prepare and reconcile accounts receivable billing invoices for utilities customers
• Prepare weekly cash deposits and review/update/advise on cash handling procedures
• Review budget information to meet deadlines and comply with approved policies, procedures and guidelines 
• Measure actual to budget variances to predict and recommend future operational targets and budgets 
• Monitor, reconcile and maintain operations accounts to ensure expenditures are in line with approved budget, policies and procedures 
• Provide monthly, quarterly, and annual financial reporting for Managers and Supervisors 
• Assist with month end and year end procedures, including account reconciliations and various working papers 
• Compile and update various accounting reports, provide analysis and recommendations 

Qualifications and Skills: 

• Minimum of an accounting diploma and three years of related experience 
• A professional accounting designation is considered an asset
• Advanced knowledge of accounting, budgeting, and financial principles
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills using accounting principles and Strathcona County policies
• Strong organizational, interpersonal, and leadership skills
• Exceptional time management skills with the ability to maintain quality work, meet tight deadlines, and manage multiple priorities
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills Criminal record check
• Ability to work confidently with senior levels of management
• Skilled in collaborating with team members and working independently
• Advanced proficiency in MS Excel (Xlookup, IF statement, pivot tables)
• Familiarity with MS365, Teams, and Oracle
• Knowledge of cash management and controls is an asset

Conditions of Employment:  

• Submission of a satisfactory criminal record check

Who We Are: 
Strathcona County is a specialized municipality located in the heart of Alberta.  Our vision is to become Canada’s most livable community, where our workplace culture and identity are supported by our people plan and values of integrity, respect, safety, collaboration, and accountability. 

Why Join Strathcona County: (depending on position)

• Competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package, which includes:
  • Extended health and dental coverage   
  • Health and wellness spending account   
  • Life and disability insurance
  • Retirement and pension programs 
  • Earned day off program
  • Employee and family assistance program
• Commitment to employee development, through internal and external training and development opportunities
• Well-being programs and a safety culture focused on physical and psychological health in the workplace

Equivalencies of education and experience may be considered. This role may be eligible to participate in our hybrid work program.

This competition may be used to fill future vacancies for similar positions within the next 6 months.  

Strathcona County is committed to an inclusive, respectful, and equitable workplace that represents the community we serve. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds who can contribute diverse perspectives and experiences.

We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.