Description

PLEASE APPLY ONLINE DIRECTLY WITH THE CITY OF TERRELL:  www.cityofterrell.org/apply

Job Summary: 
Under the direction of the Assistant Finance Director, the Accountant performs a broad range of professional accounting work in support of the City's financial operations. Responsibilities include maintaining accurate financial records, supporting the annual audit and financial reporting cycle, and assisting across multiple functional areas including accounts payable, accounts receivable, payroll, grant accounting, bank reconciliations, and budget support. The Accountant works in a small, collaborative finance team and is expected to adapt to shifting priorities and contribute wherever needed to ensure accurate and timely reporting.

This position is part of a multi-level Accountant classification series (Accountant I, II, or III) based on qualifications and experience. Placement within the classification series does not change the assigned pay grade but may result in different placement within the established pay range.

Essential Functions:
This information is intended to be descriptive of the key responsibilities of the position. The following examples do not identify all duties performed by any single incumbent.  The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related, or a logical assignment to the position.
1.    Prepares and posts journal entries; maintains general ledger accuracy and supports the month-end and year-end close processes.
2.    Performs bank reconciliations for assigned City accounts on a monthly basis; investigates and resolves discrepancies in a timely manner.
3.    Assists with accounts payable functions including reviewing invoices for proper coding, approval, and compliance with City purchasing policies.
4.    Assists with accounts receivable and cash receipting functions; records receipts, monitors outstanding balances, and reconciles to the general ledger.
5.    Supports payroll processing and reconciliation; reviews payroll registers and assists with payroll journal entries and related liability accounts.
6.    Supports grant accounting functions including tracking expenditures, preparing reimbursement requests, and ensuring compliance with grant terms and applicable regulations.
7.    Prepares monthly and quarterly financial reports, reconciliations, and variance analyses as assigned.
8.    Assists with the annual audit by gathering supporting documentation, preparing audit schedules and work papers, and responding to auditor requests.
9.    Supports preparation of the Annual Comprehensive Financial Report (ACFR) including assistance with financial statement schedules and note disclosures.
10.    Assists with fixed asset recordkeeping including additions, disposals, and annual inventory reconciliation.
11.    Provides support to the budget process as assigned, including assisting with budget data entry, departmental inquiries, and budget-to-actual monitoring.
12.    Assists with Tyler Munis ERP system maintenance including data entry, report generation, and coordination with system users.
13.    Responds to inquiries from City departments, vendors, and the public regarding financial transactions and records.
14.    Travels to attend meetings, training, and conferences as needed.
15.    Regular and consistent attendance for assigned work hours is essential.
16.    Performs other related duties as assigned.

Required Knowledge: 

   Principles and practices of accounting including double-entry bookkeeping, financial statements, and account reconciliation.
   Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP).
   Microsoft Office suite with proficiency in Excel.
   Computerized accounting or ERP systems; Tyler Munis or equivalent preferred.
   Office practices, procedures, and professional standards applicable to a finance environment.

Required Abilities:

   Communicate effectively, both orally and in writing, with a wide range of audiences including non-financial staff.
   Analyze financial data, identify discrepancies, and develop accurate solutions.
   Manage multiple assignments simultaneously and meet deadlines in a high-volume environment.
   Maintain a high degree of accuracy and attention to detail in all work products.
   Work independently and as a contributing member of a small team.
   Develop and maintain effective working relationships with coworkers, other City departments, vendors, and external auditors.
   Prepare clear and concise financial reports and schedules.
   Exercise sound judgment and discretion in handling sensitive or confidential financial information.
   Operate computers and related equipment including financial software, spreadsheet applications, and databases.

Requirements

Minimum Qualifications:
Any equivalent combination of education, training, and experience that provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities may be considered.

A Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or a closely related field from an accredited institution is required. 

Candidates will be considered and classified based on the following experience levels:   

• Accountant I: Entry-level position. New graduates or candidates with up to two (2) years of professional accounting       experience.
• Accountant II: Candidates with two (2) to four (4) years of progressively responsible accounting experience. 
• Accountant III: Candidates with four (4) or more years of professional accounting experience, with a strong preference for     governmental accounting experience. 

This position is assigned to a single pay grade. Classification as Accountant I, II, or III is used for placement within the pay range, with higher levels qualifying for consideration at higher rates within the established pay scale based on experience.

New graduates with a qualifying degree will be considered; candidates with prior accounting experience, particularly in a governmental environment, are preferred. Knowledge of Microsoft Office with emphasis on Excel is required.

Licenses and /or Certifications:
Valid Class C Texas Driver’s License required

Certification as a Public Accountant (CPA), Management Accountant (CMA), Public Finance Officer (CPFO), or Government Finance Officer (CGFO) preferred, but not required.