Description

Accountant II – Finance Department 

Position Summary 

Performs mid- to advanced-level professional municipal accounting work in the Finance Department in support of the City’s financial operations. Responsibilities include maintaining and reconciling complex financial records, performing and reviewing general ledger activities, and administering accounts payable and receivable functions. Work involves detailed analysis, financial reporting, and problem-solving to ensure accuracy, compliance, and adherence to established financial policies, procedures, and applicable regulations.

This position exercises independent judgment in applying accounting principles, assists with month-end and year-end closing processes, and supports audit and budget preparation activities. The Accountant II may review transactions for accuracy, resolve discrepancies, recommend process improvements, and provide guidance to less experienced staff.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Essential and other important duties may include, but are not limited to, the following: 

• Performs mid- to advanced-level professional accounting work including general ledger, fund accounting, financial reporting, and related functions for the City and its departments; assumes responsibility for assigned funds, accounts, or functional areas.
• Researches, interprets, and applies applicable accounting standards, including Governmental Accounting Standards Board (GASB), Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP), and other relevant professional standards.
• Maintains, reconciles, and analyzes complex general ledger accounts; prepares, reviews, and posts journal entries to ensure accuracy and integrity of financial data.
• Performs and reviews monthly bank, investment, and balance sheet reconciliations; monitors and resolves discrepancies and banking exceptions.
• Assists in monitoring cash balances and supporting cash management activities, including proper recording of financial transactions.
• Leads or coordinates month-end and year-end closing processes for assigned areas, including preparation of adjusting entries, account analyses, and supporting schedules.
• Reviews, analyzes, and approves financial transactions, including accounts payable, accounts receivable, and purchasing-related activities, to ensure compliance with established policies and procedures.
• Prepares and reviews financial, statistical, and regulatory reports, statements, and schedules for internal and external use; contributes to the preparation of the City’s Annual Comprehensive Financial Report (ACFR), including preparation of audit schedules, reconciliation of accounts, and response to auditor inquiries.
• Conducts detailed financial research and analysis; compiles and reconciles data and prepares supporting documentation, including tables, charts, and schedules.
• Assists in the development, monitoring, and reporting of the annual budget; performs budget-to-actual variance analysis and supports forecasting activities.
• Evaluates, maintains, and supports internal controls; identifies process risks and recommends improvements to accounting procedures and workflows.
• Reviews and approves work products of other accounting staff, including journal entries, reconciliations, and financial transactions, ensuring accuracy and compliance.
• Provides guidance, training, and technical support to accounting staff; may coordinate workflow and review work within assigned functional areas.
• Coordinates with departments, vendors, and external agencies to resolve complex accounting issues, respond to inquiries, and support departmental financial operations.
• Processes and reviews payroll to ensure accuracy, timeliness, and compliance with applicable policies, procedures, and regulations; provides backup support for utility billing and other finance-related functions as needed.
• Maintains financial records in accordance with records retention requirements and assists with public information requests, reporting requirements, and regulatory filings.
• Utilizes financial systems and reporting tools to analyze data, generate reports, and support decision-making.
• Participates in special projects, financial studies, and process improvement initiatives.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Essential Personnel Designation

This position may be designated as essential personnel. The employee may be required to remain on duty or report to duty during emergency or disaster situations, including hurricanes or other declared emergencies, as directed by the City.

Requirements

Education and Experience:

• A high school diploma or equivalent is required. A Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or a closely related field from an accredited college or university is preferred; an Associate’s degree with additional relevant experience may be considered.
• A minimum of two (2) years of progressively responsible experience in accounting or a related field is required, including experience with general ledger, financial reporting, account reconciliations, and financial analysis; municipal or governmental accounting experience is preferred.
• Minimum of two (2) years of experience working with computerized accounting systems and financial software, including spreadsheets and reporting tools, is required.
• Minimum of two (2) years of experience supporting or performing financial reporting, month-end and year-end closing processes, audit preparation, or budget support is required.
• Experience with fund accounting, budgeting, financial reporting, and compliance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP) and Governmental Accounting Standards Board (GASB) standards is preferred.
• A combination of education, training, and experience that provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities may be considered.

Licenses, Certifications, and Equipment:

• A valid Texas driver’s license and acceptable driving record are required.
• Professional certification in accounting, finance, or a related field (e.g., Certified Public Accountant (CPA), Certified Government Finance Officer (CGFO), or similar) is preferred.
• Ability to proficiently operate standard office equipment, including personal computers, calculators, and related accounting and financial software systems.

Disclaimer

This job description is intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed by an employee assigned to this position. It is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities, or qualifications. The City reserves the right to modify, add, or remove duties and responsibilities as operational needs require.

At-Will Employment Statement

Employment with the City of Cleveland is at will and may be terminated by either the employee or the City at any time, with or without cause or notice, in accordance with applicable law. Nothing in this job description or any City policy creates or is intended to create a contract of employment.

Salary and Classification

• Salary Range: $50,057 - $72,582
• FLSA Status: Non-Exempt

Hours of Work

• Monday through Thursday, 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.; Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.

Position Status

• This position is open until filled.

Equal Opportunity Employment

The City of Cleveland is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate in employment on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable law.

E-Verify Employer

The City of Cleveland participates in the federal E-Verify program to confirm the employment eligibility of all newly hired employees.