Accounting Technician

Accounting Technician

The Housing Authority of Thurston County (HATC) is seeking a detail-oriented and dependable Accounting Technician to support the financial operations of our agency. This position is ideal for candidates who are early in their accounting career, experienced accounting technicians, or individuals with governmental, nonprofit, affordable housing, or Housing Choice Voucher (Section 8) accounting experience.

This role works closely with the Finance Manager and supports multiple agency divisions including Rental Assistance, Housing Stability, Development, Administration, and Executive functions.

We are looking for someone who is organized, analytical, collaborative, and committed to accuracy in financial reporting and customer service.

Why Join HATC?

At HATC, our work directly supports affordable housing and housing stability services within our community. Employees are part of a mission-driven organization that values teamwork, integrity, accountability, and continuous learning.

Position Summary

Under the direction of the Finance Manager, the Accounting Technician performs a variety of accounting and financial support functions for agency programs and operations.

Primary responsibilities include:

• Accounts payable and accounts receivable processing
• Bank reconciliations and cash tracking
• Journal entry preparation and posting
• Financial report preparation and review
• Spreadsheet development and financial analysis
• Audit support and documentation preparation
• Communication with landlords, vendors, clients, and staff regarding financial matters
• Compliance with accounting standards, HUD regulations, and internal controls

The ideal candidate understands the importance of accuracy, confidentiality, customer service, and accountability in a public-sector environment.

Ideal Candidate Background

We encourage applicants with experience in any of the following areas to apply:

• Governmental accounting
• Housing authority accounting
• Affordable housing finance
• Housing Choice Voucher (Section 8) administration
• Nonprofit accounting
• Municipal or public-sector finance
• General ledger accounting
• Payroll, AP/AR, or bank reconciliation work

This position may also be a strong fit for:

• Accounting Technicians
• Staff Accountants
• Junior Accountants
• Fiscal Specialists
• Bookkeepers transitioning into governmental accounting
• Candidates with strong Excel and reconciliation experience

Minimum Qualifications

Education

Associate degree or higher in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or a related field.

Relevant professional accounting experience may substitute for portions of the educational requirement.

Experience

Minimum of two (2) years of professional accounting or bookkeeping experience beyond educational requirements.

Preferred experience includes:

• Governmental accounting
• Housing authority or affordable housing accounting
• HUD-funded programs
• Housing Choice Voucher (HCV/Section 8) programs
• Public-sector financial reporting

Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

Successful candidates will demonstrate:

• Strong attention to detail and accuracy
• Knowledge of accounting principles and financial processes
• Ability to identify and resolve discrepancies
• Strong organizational and time management skills
• Ability to prioritize multiple assignments and deadlines
• Strong spreadsheet and Microsoft Excel skills
• Ability to learn financial systems and changing regulations
• Strong verbal and written communication skills
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively
• Professional customer service skills
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and professionalism

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

The Accounting Technician may perform duties including, but not limited to:

• Process invoices, payments, and reimbursement requests
• Review transactions for accuracy and proper coding
• Prepare and post journal entries
• Reconcile bank accounts and financial records
• Monitor cash balances and transfers
• Assist with month-end and year-end close processes
• Prepare financial reports and supporting schedules
• Maintain organized accounting records and documentation
• Assist auditors during annual audits and monitoring reviews
• Track receivables, billing, and collections activity
• Develop and maintain spreadsheets and financial tracking tools
• Analyze financial data and identify discrepancies or trends
• Respond to landlord, vendor, and staff financial inquiries
• Support compliance with HUD regulations and agency policies
• Assist with internal control improvements and process efficiencies
• Participate in required agency training
• Perform related duties as assigned

Other Requirements

• Ability to pass criminal background check
• Bondable
• Completion of agency-required Public Records Act, Open Public Meetings Act, and Cybersecurity training within two weeks of hire

Work Environment and Physical Requirements

Work Environment

• Shared office environment
• Primarily in-person position
• Limited telework opportunities may occasionally be available based on operational needs

Physical Requirements

• Sitting and standing for extended periods
• Occasional lifting up to 10 pounds
• Frequent computer and keyboard use
• Ability to communicate effectively in person and by telephone

Equal Opportunity Employer

The Housing Authority of Thurston County is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to creating an inclusive and respectful workplace. HATC prohibits discrimination and harassment of any kind and provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants.

Benefits

Employees receive a comprehensive benefits package including:

• Up to 12 vacation days accrued during the first year
• 12 paid sick leave days annually
• 11 paid holidays plus 3 floating holidays annually
• Washington State Health Care Authority medical, dental, vision, and life insurance
• Washington Public Employees Retirement System (PERS II or PERS III)

• Optional deferred compensation participation with employer matching equivalent to Social Security contribution
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Mileage and approved travel reimbursement
• Professional development and training opportunities

Pay & Benefits

• $30–$36 per hour DOE
• Washington PERS retirement
• Medical, dental, vision, and life insurance
• Paid vacation, sick leave, holidays, and floating holidays
• Professional development opportunities