*ACCOUNTANT
Pay Range GC 23

INTRODUCTION

This classification performs data processing, auditing and fiscal management for a departmental budget and oversees the budgets of those entities comprising the department.  Accountant will develop, implement and administer policy and procedures for control systems; develop materials, forms and other support systems and perform fiscal audits of programs.

EXAMPLES OF PRINCIPLE DUTIES

(Duties assigned to this classification include, but are not limited to, the following examples.)

1.  Develop policies, procedures, materials, forms, and other support systems and controls to ensure efficient fiscal operations for staff performing multiple functions in all factions of the department.  Develop, implement and administer control procedures throughout the department.  Perform fiscal reviews/audits of all programs.

2.  Using generally accepted governmental accounting practices:
        a)     negotiate, develop and monitor contracts, grants and leases;
        b)     conduct reviews/audits of contractors
        c)      track progress and develop related reports;
        d)     develop indirect cost rate proposal and costing of services.

3.   Independently research, compile and summarize information for a variety of financial reports that address or resolve issues, or provide statements of financial health.

4.  Provide project and program management as assigned, which includes coordination with other agencies.

5.  Coordinate and support departmental material management and inventory control processes, initiating and designing policies and controls as necessary.

6.  Share leadership role in the development, preparation and monitoring of division (program) / department budget and budget adjustments.  Maintain a variety of departmental accounting records and logs.

7.  Provide technical assistance and supervision to accounting section staff and accounting/fiscal positions in each division (program) of department.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITY REQUIRED BY THIS POSITION

Knowledge of: Thorough knowledge of generally accepted governmental accounting principles and practices of fiscal management, budget preparation, and auditing practices; considerable knowledge of fiscal monitoring and budget coordination techniques and procedures; considerable knowledge of database development, statistical data collection and research techniques and procedures; considerable knowledge of record keeping and reporting. Skill in:  Collecting and analyzing data for department operations and programs; report writing and composing correspondence; processing information utilizing automated equipment; leadership, delegation and evaluation of staff. Ability to:  Communicate effectively in both oral and written forms; formulate and implement operational and administrative policies; plan, develop and evaluate funding requirements; review contracts for compliance with County policy and legal requirements; perform short and long-range planning; analyze and evaluate operations and develop and implement corrective action to resolve problems; establish and maintain record keeping systems and reports; conduct research and compile and analyze statistical and financial data; utilize problem identification and resolution techniques; make decisions independently in accordance with established policies and procedures, establish new policies when applicable, and use initiative and judgment in completing tasks and responsibilities; effectively meet and deal with department head, division (program) heads, other employees, auditors, vendors, contractors, and the public.

Education, experience and training: Bachelor’s degree in accounting, business administration, finance or a related field and four years progressively responsible work experience, which includes two years experience with a governmental agency OR any satisfactory equivalent combination of experience and training.  At time of appointment, must possess a valid Oregon driver's license.

Desirable qualifications: Certified Public Accountant, Certified Internal Auditor and/or undergraduate degree in accounting with Master’s of Business or Public Administration.

SUPERVISORY CONTROLS OF THIS POSITION

The employee works independently in administering a complex area of responsibility and confers with supervisor for professional advice.  Discretion is required in applying general goal and policy statements, in development of recommendations, policies and procedures and in resolving program problems.  Work is accomplished within a broad framework, with authority and responsibility in area of service.  Periodic reviews of work performance are conducted in terms of expected results.

GUIDELINES

Work is performed within departmental policy and procedures; federal, state and county statutes, rules, regulations and ordinances; established accounting and auditing theories, principles and practices.  Accountant uses seasoned, independent judgment in interpreting and using appropriate guidelines.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS AND WORK ENVIRONMENT

Regular and consistent attendance is required.  Work is performed in an office environment; work is generally sedentary and requires hearing voice conversation and keyboarding.  A minimal amount of driving is required.