Account Clerk II

Accounting ClerkUnder supervision, to compile, verify, and summarize moderately complex accounting and financial data from a wide variety of sources for an accounting operational unit. NOTE: Candidates who meet the employment standards will be invited to take the Written Examination tentatively scheduled for the week of November 9, 2026. The exam date(s) may change based on the number of applicants and room availability.Typical TasksThe following are the duties performed by employees in this classification. However, employees may perform other related duties at an equivalent level. Each individual in the classification does not necessarily perform all duties listed.Balances cash book figures;Corrects imbalance errors by initiating journal entries within strict guidelines;Assists in finding reasons for imbalances;May perform timekeeping functions, including collecting and tracking hours worked, implementing labor agreements and applicable laws and ordinances involving payments, deductions, differentials, overtime, reimbursements, etc., assigning costs to appropriate cost centers, researching imbalances and errors in posting and initiating corrective action, and reviewing and releasing payroll to the Controller-Treasurer Department;Performs accounts payable functions; conducts research, such as checking invoices against services rendered and contractual agreements, completing appropriate forms and documentation, and ensuring sales tax is properly charged or accrued;Performs accounts receivable functions; researches files for payment responsibility from other County departments, bills appropriately, adjusts invoices, and applies payments; collects revenue received, accepts and records payments from clients, departments, and agencies; reviews and researches accounts where overpayments or underpayments have been received, initiates appropriate corrective action, and maintains records;Manages accounts assigned to a department or division, including monies received for services provided to clients;May offer orientation and answer procedural questions for new employees and coworkers;Creates and maintains databases necessary to track accounting functions; collects and summarizes activity data from several sources;Checks journal entry detail, deposit information, and other hard-copy materials against computer printout for accuracy; researches and balances discrepancies;May gather statistical information on units of service provided or persons served by a department;Verifies payments for compliance with Federal and State laws, grant requirements, and County ordinances;Furnishes public, departments, and agencies with information by searching for and explaining applicable laws, regulations, policies, and procedures covering specialized fiscal processes or rules, including explaining fiscal services provided by the County, and explaining Federal and State regulations as they apply to specialized fiscal functions;Disburses payments to appropriate accounts and prepares summary reports for revenue distribution;Operates financial management and/or accounting software and other computer systems or applications;Orient new system users;May be assigned as a Disaster Service Worker (DSW), as required*;Performs other related duties, as required.Employment StandardsSufficient education, training, and experience to demonstrate the ability to perform the above tasks, plus the possession and direct application of the following knowledge and abilities:Training and Experience Note: The required knowledge and abilities are attained through training and experience equivalent to the possession of a high school diploma,andTwo (2) years of work experience performing accounting clerical dutiesOROne (1) year of work experience equivalent to an Account Clerk I in the County of Santa Clara.Twelve (12) semester units (fifteen (15) quarter units) in accounting and/or auditing may substitute for one year of the experience performing accounting clerical duties. Units may not substitute for the experience equivalent to Account Clerk I in the County of Santa Clara.Special Requirements*As a condition of employment, pursuant to California Government Code Sections 3100-3109 and Local Ordinance, all County of Santa Clara employees are designated Disaster Service Workers. A DSW is required to complete all assigned Disaster Service Worker-related training, and in the event of an emergency, return to work as ordered.Knowledge of:Clerical accounting principles, terminology, and methods, including general bookkeeping procedures;Office practices and procedures, including accounting systems;Customer service principles, including effective communication and the handling of irate and distressed people;Common computer systems and applications;Business mathematics to perform calculations and create statistical reports.Ability to:Prepare and maintain moderately complex financial or statistical data and records;Prepare accurate accounting reports and summaries;Understand departmental controls, procedures, and various County contracts pertaining to clerical maintenance of varied sets of budget accounts;Reconcile accounts and reconstruct moderately complex accounting record trails to locate and correct errors or ascertain reasons for imbalance;Work independently, establish work priorities, and meet deadlines while utilizing sound judgement in performing duties;Perform computations rapidly and accurately;Identify and notify supervisor and manager of potential discrepancies or violations of generally accepted accounting and financial management practices and procedures;Operate standard office equipment, including 10-key, calculators, and computers, with speed and accuracy;Establish and maintain effective working relationships with those contacted in the course of work, at all levels, including colleagues, the public, and representatives of other agencies;Communicate effectively, both orally and in writing;Create and maintain databases.BenefitsThe County offers comprehensive first-class medical, dental, and vision benefits plans for County employees and their dependents, including plans with no deductibles, no co-pays, no co-insurance, and no prescription drug co-pays. The County also offers generous paid time off with significant vacation, sick time, and 13 paid County holidays annually! Details are included in the Memorandum of Understanding/Agreement with the bargaining unit applicable to the job classification. In addition to the amazing perks above, the County also offers the additional benefits below.Retirement Benefits The County offers robust retirement plans including a 457(b) Deferred Compensation Plan (similar to the private sector's 401(k) plan) and the CalPERS pension plan. In addition to lifetime retirement income available through the CalPERS pension plan, the 457(b) Deferred Compensation plan provides a great way to save for retirement and supplement the defined benefit pension available to employees.Health Flexible Spending Account The Health Flexible Spending Account (HFSA) empowers employees to manage healthcare expenses efficiently with tax-free contributions (up to $3,200 for the 2024 calendar year).Dependent Care Assistance Program (DCAP) The Dependent Care Assistance Program (DCAP) enables employees to utilize tax-free funds for dependent care services, facilitating a convenient and cost-effective approach for managing your dependent care expenses. The County also offers the Employee Childcare Assistance Plan, an employer-funded DCAP, for employees with annual income under $120,000.Life and AD&D The County offers life and disability benefits including Life Insurance, Accidental Death and Dismemberment (AD&D) Insurance, Long-Term Disability insurance, California State Disability Insurance, and Integration with Leave.Employee Assistance Program (EAP) The County prioritizes employee mental health and well-being and offers a top-tier Employee Assistance Program (EAP) through Concern providing confidential counseling sessions covering stress, anxiety, relationships, grief, as well as financial/legal services, personal coaching, child and elder care referrals, and comprehensive crisis support.Employee Wellness The Employee Wellness Program offers free wellness programing, fitness classes and resources; including Elevate My Wellness an all-in-one platform designed to elevate your well-being journey.Education Reimbursement A generous Learning and Employee Development program is available, including Education Reimbursement for employees seeking additional training and professional development.