ACCOUNTING CLERK

Salary: $50,930.00 Annually
Location : Polk County Admin. Bldg., 111 Court Avenue, Des Moines, IA
Job Type: Full-Time Regular
Job Number: 27-1011
Department: Auditor's Office
Division: Central Accounting
Opening Date: 08/13/2026
Closing Date: 8/21/2026 11:59 PM Central
FLSA: Non-Exempt
Bargaining Unit: CA
Hours: 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM (Sat/Sun Off)
Bargaining Unit: AFSCME/Clerical
Salary Grade: 6
Location: Administration Building

Under general supervision, performs accounting duties, including reviewing financial records and processing financial transactions for an assigned County department or office. Maintains financial records in accordance with County established accounting policies and procedures.

Illustrative Examples of Work

1. Receives, verifies, codes, records, reconciles and deposits payments and/or cash received; generates and issues receipts, requisitions, payment vouchers, checks, purchase orders, invoices, billings, and other documents.
2. Performs data entry; retrieves and compiles requested data for various reports.
3. Prepares and maintains organized, accurate, and complete office records, financial transactions, reports, inventories, etc.
4. Review and verify accuracy of a variety of documents and provide assistance in resolving discrepancies.
5. Performs various administrative tasks such as filing, providing assistance to the general public over the phone or in person, and handling correspondence; assists the general public or county staff with the completion of documents and applications.
6. Performs related duties as assigned.

Required Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Knowledge of basic bookkeeping and accounting methods, accounts payable, accounts receivable, and billing procedures.
• Knowledge of pertinent federal, state, and local laws and regulations.
• Knowledge of and the ability to maintain departmental policies, practices, and standards.
• Knowledge of business English, spelling, and grammar.
• Skill in typing and proofreading.
• Ability to accurately perform moderately complex mathematical calculations.
• Ability to create and maintain basic ledgers and spreadsheets including mathematical and accounting formulas utilizing various hardware and software programs.
• Ability to operate a personal computer and other general office equipment.
• Ability to make minor decisions, in accordance with laws, rules, regulations, and departmental policies and procedures.
• Ability to research, analyze, and resolve routine problems.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with other County employees, representatives of other agencies, and the general public, fostering a collaborative and professional work environment.
• Ability to communicate effectively both verbally and in writing.
• Ability to maintain accurate and complete office records.
• Ability to frequently lift up to 10 pounds.

Training and Experience

• Graduation from high school or equivalent education, and
• Two years of experience in accounting office work, or
• Associates Degree with major course work in accounting or finance, or
• Any equivalent combination of training and experience that will have provided the required knowledge, skills, and abilities.

Special Requirements:

• A criminal background check is required.
• A drug screen is required prior to final offer of employment.

Polk County is committed to providing a work environment that is representative, at all levels, of the citizens we serve. Equal opportunities are available to all applicants and current employees regardless of race, color, national origin, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, genetic information, military or veteran status, citizenship status, mental or physical disability, or any other applicable characteristics protected by law.
Click below for a detailed overview of our benefits package.