Accountant

AccountantThe purpose of this position is the maintenance of City accounting records and the preparation of financial reports. An Accountant may be assigned responsibility for maintenance and operation of the City's accounting ledgers, for the audit of departmental accounts, and for examining the financial records of University City businesses. The Accountant receives general instructions regarding what is expected and completes assignments independently. Work is reviewed by superiors for overall accuracy and quality through spot checks and appraisal of results. Reports to the Director of Finance. Supervises the Accounts Payable Specialist as assigned by the Director of Finance.Essential FunctionsReconciles bank accounts for a variety of City fundsPrepares cash balance statements and financial reportsVerifies cash collections and checks distribution to accountsAudits accounts of all departments authorized to collect City fundsChecks numbered tickets or permits with receipts, deposit slips, and other records.Analyzes departmental accounting proceduresAudits financial records of businesses in University City to ascertain correctness of license paymentsVerifies size of gross receipts, inventories and value fees and penalties.Makes necessary follow-upsProvides support for the Collector's OfficeMaintains general and subsidiary ledgersPrepares statements of appropriations, expenditures and encumbrancesAssists superiors in such special projects as the revision of the chart of accounts or the year-end financial statementsMaintains records on individual pieces of equipmentReceives vehicle usage reportsCalculates monthly costs and posts amounts to individual equipment records.Prepares departmental billsPerforms related work as required.QualificationsBachelor's degree in Accounting or other accounting experience (preferably governmental accounting)Three years of experience in accounting and auditing theory, principles and practicesThorough knowledge of the principles of accounting, best practices, and account classificationClose attention to detailExcellent organization skillsExcellent interpersonal and communication skillsAbility to maintain complicated financial records and to prepare clear and comprehensive financial reports is essential.