Senior Accountant - Controller's Office

Senior Accountant – Controller’s Office at County of San Mateo seeks experienced professionals to oversee complex accounting functions within a government organization. The role requires independent judgment, advanced accounting knowledge, and leadership of staff and processes. Ideal Candidate Three to five years of journey-level accounting experience. Excellent verbal and written communication skills. Strong technical skills in accounting, internal controls, and research analysis. Knowledge of GAAP. Experience with day‑to‑day governmental accounting and reporting. Experience supervising fiscal staff. Experience with project management. Ability to identify and implement process improvements. Ability to work independently, problem‑solve, and exercise sound judgment within established guidelines. Experience with accounting, including financial statements and auditing. Examples of Duties Recommend selection of professional staff and provide direction, supervision, training, and evaluation of fiscal support staff. Train fiscal staff of other departments in accounting and system procedures. Coordinate and calculate month‑end and year‑end closings. Prepare journal entries and periodic reconciliations of general ledger, journal, subsidiary accounts, and bank statements. Compile and prepare financial statements, general and subsidiary ledgers, and supporting schedules; maintain expenditure and budgetary control accounts. Maintain varied departmental cost accounting records and disburse funds as required. Provide technical support to internal auditors and governmental program auditors. Analyze programs and legislation to determine fiscal impact. Review and recommend improvements to accounting systems and procedures; implement changes upon approval. Coordinate development of updated procedures and procedural manuals. Review documentation for accuracy and conformance to legal and procedural requirements. Maintain current knowledge of accounting and reporting requirements, policies, and procedures. Recommend accounting and report changes to ensure compliance with governmental requirements and regulations. Represent the department in responding to inquiries concerning accounting methods and procedures. Make verbal presentations and conduct trainings regarding accounting policies and procedures. Perform related duties as assigned. Qualifications Experience and Education Any combination of education and experience that would likely provide the required knowledge and skills is qualifying. Typically, this includes a bachelor’s degree or equivalent in accounting, finance, business administration, or a related field with one year of journey‑level accounting experience. Knowledge Basic supervisory principles and practices. Principles, practices, and terminology of general, fund, and governmental accounting. Principles and practices of business data processing related to accounting information. Principles of public finance. Applicable laws regulating public fiscal operations. Budgeting principles and terminology. Auditing and financial reconciliation principles and methods. Skills / Abilities Plan, direct, review, and evaluate the work of assigned support staff. Train others in work procedures. Review, analyze, post, balance, interpret, and reconcile complex financial data and accounts. Develop and implement accounting systems and procedures. Verify the accuracy of financial data and information. Ensure proper authorization and documentation for disbursements. Interpret and apply complex financial procedures and legal documents. Exercise sound independent judgment within established policy guidelines. Prepare and direct the preparation of clear, concise, and complete financial reports and statements, audit reports and audit work papers. Make accurate mathematical and statistical calculations. Establish and maintain effective working relationships. The County offers competitive salaries and benefits, including an extensive wellness program and a solid pension plan. Location: Position is onsite only; remote work is not available. #J-18808-Ljbffr SupportFinity™