Accountant III

Accountant III

The City of Turlock is currently accepting applications for the position of Accountant III. Under direction performs professional accounting 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. This classification is assigned to the Turlock City Employees Association bargaining unit for labor relations purposes and is subject to overtime assignments. Distinguishing Characteristics This is the working lead/advanced journey-level class in the professional accounting series. Incumbents are expected to independently accomplish more complex accounting duties and responsibilities. Successful performance requires considerable knowledge of governmental accounting policies and procedures, as well as the ability to exercise sound independent judgment within established guidelines. Supervision Received and Exercised Direction is provided by the Principal Accountant and the Finance Director.

Essential Functions - Include But Are Not Limited To The Following:

• Perform a variety of complex accounting duties related to the operation and maintenance of City-wide and multi department accounting records.
• Coordinate, assign, and review the work of others; participate in the selection, training, and evaluation of assigned staff; may provide input to the Principal Accountant on performance and discipline issues.
• 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 related to a variety of reporting requirements including, but not limited to, grant reporting to various agencies as well as reporting to the State Controller's office.
• 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: Basic leadership principles and practices. Generally accepted accounting principles 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: Plan, direct, and review the work of assigned professional and support staff. Train others in work procedures. Examine and verify complex financial documents and reports. Prepare a variety of complex 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 and Training Guidelines Any combination of experience and training that would likely provide the required knowledge and abilities is qualifying. A typical way to obtain the knowledge and abilities would be: Experience: Two years of professional journey level accounting experience similar to that of the Accountant II in the City of Turlock that would have provided the opportunity to develop the required skills, knowledge and abilities. Training: 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. Licenses: 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.