Accounting Specialist

The Iowa Judicial Branch, in Polk County, seeks applicants for an Accounting Specialist to provide financial support for court operations, including receiving and processing payments from parties, applying funds to outstanding debts and court‑ordered obligations, and maintaining accurate financial records.

The successful candidate will demonstrate strong attention to detail, accuracy, and accountability when handling financial transactions and reconciling payments. This position requires the ability to learn and navigate court‑specific financial systems and computer programs, professionally communicate in person and by phone with court users, and explain payment procedures and account information clearly and respectfully. The Accounting Specialist plays an important role in ensuring the proper collection, processing, and distribution of funds, while maintaining the accuracy and integrity of court financial records.

What’s?in it for you:?

• Collaborative,?positive professional work environment?
• Opportunities to make a widespread difference in the Iowa communities??
• Excellent benefits package?
• Paid Holidays/Vacation/Sick Leave?
• Iowa Public Employees’ Retirement System (IPERS) plan?
• Employee discount program?
• Employment with the Iowa Judicial Branch may qualify for the federal student loan repayment program.??

The pay range for this position is $20.74? - $32.78 per hour. This is a contract-covered, FLSA non-exempt position. The starting salary for new state employees is expected to be at the base of the pay range. Adjustments may be made if the successful candidate has relevant experience.

Position classification is determined as the ‘best fit’ of the duties assigned to and performed by a position. This position is classified as an Accounting Specialist as summarized below.

Summary

Perform cashier and bookkeeping work, record accounts receivable and/or accounts payable transactions, and maintain accurate general ledger activity.

Examples of Duties and Responsibilities

• Record financial transactions and reconcile accounts.
• Perform disbursement transactions and record disbursement activities.
• Prepare regular, accurate financial records and reports.
• Review daily bank entries and general ledger activity.
• Ensure the integrity of accounting ledgers by practicing control procedures.
• Other duties as assigned.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Knowledge of accounting and finance principles, GAAP, laws, and best practices.
• Understanding of the Iowa Judicial Branch’s various court processes and procedures.
• Ability to secure confidential information.
• Ability to use financial software and tools.
• Ability to use 10‑key calculator.
• Effective listening and communication skills.
• Bookkeeping skills.
• Cash handling skills.
• Customer service skills.
• Attention to detail.

The Iowa Judicial Branch is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) employer. Applicants may review the Equal Employment Opportunity Utilization Report from the Iowa Judicial Branch website as part of our commitment to transparency and compliance with federal and state regulations.

Final applicants are subjected to a criminal background check. The Iowa Judicial Branch is an E‑Verify employer.

This position is covered by a Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) with American Federation of State, County, and Municipal Employees, Iowa Council 61, AFL‑CIO (AFSCME).

Positions in this class are exempt from the screening and referral requirements of the Iowa Department of Administrative Services – Human Resources Enterprise.

The incumbent must meet the minimum requirements to qualify for the position.

1. High school diploma (or high school equivalency diploma)

1. One (1) year of full‑time equivalent experience in accounting, finance, bookkeeping, or auditing.

Experience may be substituted with related education on the basis that successful completion of 30 semester hours or academic equivalent equals one (1) year of experience.

Preferred Qualifications

• Excellent communication skills and maintain a pleasant demeanor
• Strong computer applications and skills including video conferencing (GTM/Zoom) including 10 key experience.
• The ability to adapt to situations with court personnel and the public
• Passion for pursuing common goals in pursuit of public service
• Critical thinking skills
• The ability to maintain confidentiality
• Detailed oriented
• Ability to process large amounts of cash and checks efficiently, counting back change, and working with financial reports.