Accountant

Accountant 1The Accountant 1 performs professional accounting work in the application of established accounting principles and methods in the preparation, maintenance, analysis and control of financial records. Employees in this class are responsible for preparation, maintenance, analysis and control of fiscal records and statements in a departmental or central fiscal operation, or for assisting superiors with more complex accounting activities and the resolution of problems, applying professional accounting principles and methods to a variety of accounting procedures and problems. Emphasis of the work is on the maintenance of controls and balances of fiscal records through standard relationships of subsidiary ledgers to general ledgers or other accounting control methods. Account classifications and operational standards are determined by established county and departmental regulations or statutory requirements. Supervision may be exercised over subordinate clerical personnel who assist in accounting, collection and related activities. Supervision is received from an administrative or professional superior who reviews progress and completed work for adherence to professional accounting standards and program guidelines, and completed work is also subject to periodic internal or external audit.Minimum QualificationsBachelor's degree in Accounting; OR Bachelor's degree to include 9 semester credits in Accounting; OR completion of 9 semester credits in Accounting and four years of Accounting experience are required; OR Additional Accounting experience may substitute for the required education on a year-for-year basis.Preferred QualificationsExperience in account reconciliation and financial reports creation. Experience in governmental accounting.Essential Duties and ResponsibilitiesGather data and prepare periodic routine and/or comprehensive reports. Perform professional accounting work involving the review, and reconciliation of financial transactions. Assist with journal entries, reconciling activities, and the preparation of recurring and ad hoc financial reports. Review cashiering transactions and supporting documentation for accuracy, completeness, and compliance with departmental policies and internal controls. Use financial applications and Microsoft Office, to track transactions, analyze data, and support departmental operations. Responds to inquiries from management, staff, agencies, and the public regarding accounting-related matters, as appropriate. Performs other related duties as required.Knowledge, Skills, and AbilitiesKnowledge of professional accounting principles and procedures. Some knowledge of management principles and supervisory practices and procedures. Knowledge of office methods and procedures and familiarity with the use of standard office equipment. Knowledge of Microsoft Office and familiarity with financial applications. Ability to prepare complete and accurate accounting reports and statements. Ability to perform detailed work involving written and numerical data. Ability to make arithmetic calculations rapidly and accurately. Ability to interpret and apply accounting procedures and guidelines to a variety of accounting operations and problems.Work Environment and Physical RequirementsWork is primarily performed in office environment, with extended periods at a computer. May involve light lifting (up to 10 lbs). Note this description is a representative summary of major job duties. Additional responsibilities may be assigned as necessary.