Accountant

About the Role Join our Team! The Citys Finance Department is seeking an Accountant to support Parks and Recreation operations. In this role, youll perform professional accounting work that helps ensure the accuracy, integrity, and transparency of the Citys financial operations. Youll work across a variety of accounting functionsincluding, reconciliations, cost recovery general ledger analysis, financial reporting, and budgetingwhile supporting compliance with regulations and internal controls. This position is ideal for someone who enjoys working with numbers, solving complex problems, and contributing to the financial health of an organization. About the Finance Department TheFinance Departmentmanages most of the City's financial activities, including budgeting, accounting (including payroll), auditing and financial reporting, financial forecasting, purchasing, cash management and investing, risk management, retirement benefits administration and more. The department strives to provide information for decision-making, procure the best value for the City and ensure continued funding for City services while complying with legal and technical standards. What Youll Do Provide accounting and financial support to the Parks & Recreation Department as part of the Finance Departments shared service modelPerform professional accounting work across general ledger, budgeting, financial reporting, and financial forecastingPrepare and review journal entries, reconciliations, and financial reportsCompile and analyze financial data, including year-end reporting and auditsPrepare financial statements, cash reports, and supporting documentationOversee the integrity of accounts payable data across multiple systems by monitoring balances, identifying discrepancies, and coordinating resolutions to maintain accurate records.Assist with audits, grants, and budget preparation activitiesDevelop and maintain spreadsheets, reports, and data analysesMonitor compliance with accounting standards, City policies, and regulatory requirementsIdentify opportunities to improve accounting processes and internal controls; collaborate with Parks and Recreation to develop, document, and implement process improvements.Responding to financial inquiries from staff and the publicMaintain accurate records and prepare written reports and correspondence Your work helps ensure responsible stewardship of public funds and supports informed decision-making across the organization. Minimum Qualifications Bachelors degree in accounting, finance, or a related field Two years of professional accounting and/or payroll experience OR an equivalent combination of education and experience Knowledge of accounting principles (GAAP) and governmental accounting practices Experience with financial reporting, reconciliations, and data analysis Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and financial systems Strong attention to detail and problem-solving skills Ability to handle confidential information with discretion Effective communication and interpersonal skills Please view the full job description and requirements for more details. Pay and Benefits Hourly pay range:$28.69 $38.45, depending on qualifications experience The City of Kentwood offers acompetitive compensation package and excellent benefits, including: 10% employer retirement contribution11 paid holidays, three personal days, and 12 sick days annuallyUp to four weeks of vacation annuallyFully paid parental leave (46 weeks depending on eligibility)Medical insurance with 2% employee premium shareFree dental and vision insuranceHealth Savings Account with employer contributions of $850$1,700 annuallyEmployer-paid life insurance and long-term disabilityEmployee Assistance ProgramEmployer-paid training and professional developmentDiscounts on city recreation programs Why work for the City of Kentwood A community of more than 54,000 residents and growing, Kentwood is a safe, prosperous, and welcoming city with vibrant neighborhoods and flourishing businesses that make it a wonderful place to live and work. The City offers easy access to a variety of amenities including many of West Michigans destination shopping, dining, entertainment, and outdoor recreation options. This, along with Kentwoods outstanding public-school systems, wide variety of businesses, and career and education advancement opportunities attract a diverse population. With a mission of providing high quality services to foster a thriving community for all, Kentwood maintains a culture of excellent customer service, actively providing a responsive and responsible local government with a focus on continual improvement. The City of Kentwood is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Apply today to join our supportive, dynamic team! Applications will be accepted throughAugust 21.