Job Descriptions

DEFINITION:

To perform professional accounting and auditing work; record and report financial transactions in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP); review accounting records for accuracy; prepare financial reports, statements and special financial analyses for both internal and external customers; and review accounting transactions for accuracy.

SUPERVISION RECEIVED AND EXERCISED:

Direction is provided by the Accountant III, Principal Accountant and the Finance Director.

DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS:

This is the journey level class in the professional accounting series. Positions in this class are normally filled by advancement from the Accountant I level. The incumbent is expected to independently accomplish the full range of accounting duties and responsibilities with minimal supervision. Successful performance requires a thorough knowledge of governmental accounting policies and procedures and the ability to exercise sound independent judgment within established guidelines.

EXAMPLES OF DUTIES: - Duties may include but are not limited to the following:

• Perform a variety of accounting duties related to the operation and maintenance of City-wide and multi department accounting records.
• Participate in the posting, balancing and reconciliation of the General Ledger and subsidiary accounts; perform interest allocation accounting.
• Prepare work papers, financial statements and various reports for federal, state and county agencies to include, but not limited to, grant reporting.
• Provide assistance and information to outside auditors as required.
• Recommend or implement changes in accounting systems and procedures.
• Maintain fixed asset records; analyze expenditures for capitalization in accordance with City policy and calculate depreciation expense.
• Assist other City departments with the financial aspects of special projects.
• Assist in monitoring various accounts and classification of expenditures; research and analyze transactions to resolve problems.
• Recommend changes in accounting and auditing systems, policies and procedures.
• Perform related duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS:

Knowledge of:

• Generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP) and governmental accounting principles and standards.
• Theories, principles and practices of governmental budgeting and finance.
• Computer software applications used in the accounting office environment.
• Modern office practices, procedures, methods and equipment.
• Federal and state grant regulations and guidelines.
• Statistical concepts and methods.
• City policies and procedures.

Ability to:

• Examine and verify financial documents and reports.
• Prepare a variety of financial statements, reports and analyses.
• Maintain cooperative relationships with those contacted during the course of work.
• Interpret and apply accounting and financial management laws, rules, regulations, policies and guidelines.
• Present ideas effectively orally and in writing.
• Use computer and software programs effectively.
• Organize, analyze, manage and implement a variety of programs.

EXPERIENCE:

Two years of increasingly responsible professional municipal accounting experience similar to that of the Accountant I in the City of Turlock that would have provided the opportunity to develop the required skills, knowledge and abilities.

EDUCATION:

Equivalent to a Bachelor’s Degree from an accredited college or university with major course work in accounting, business administration, economics or a related field.

Possession of a valid California Driver’s License in the category necessary to perform essential duties of the position may be required at the time of appointment. Individuals who do not meet this requirement due to a physical disability will be considered for accommodation on a case-by-case basis. Maintenance of a valid California Driver’s license and proof of automobile liability insurance thereafter is a condition of continued employment.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

Maintain the following physical abilities: See well enough to read instructions, read fine print, view computer screen, operate vehicle and related equipment; hear well enough to converse on the telephone and in person, assist the public and other staff; use hands and fingers for use of computer keyboard, copy machine, filing, writing, drive vehicles and answer telephone.