Accountant III - Government Accounting Washington District Perm Career $ 115K

Title: Accountant III - Government Accounting Washington District Perm Career $ 115K

Company: Leading public sector organization

Salary: Upto $ 115k base + bonus + benefits

Based: Hybrid working based in City of Ellensburg

Type: Full time permanent position

Job Description:

We are recruiting on behalf of a leading public sector organization seeking a Senior Accountant to join its Finance Department. This is an excellent opportunity for a highly motivated financial professional to take on a leadership role in managing accounting operations, compliance, financial reporting, and audits.

This position offers a dynamic environment where you will provide financial oversight across various city operations while mentoring accounting staff. If you are a detail-oriented professional with a passion for public finance and a strong background in accounting, we encourage you to apply.

Key Responsibilities:

· Financial Reporting & Analysis

o Prepare and oversee monthly and annual financial statements, ensuring accuracy and compliance with GASB and BARS.

o Conduct financial analysis to support decision-making and provide recommendations based on data insights.

o Manage the debt service fund budgets and ensure compliance with bond revenue and expenditure guidelines.

· Audit & Compliance

o Act as the primary liaison with auditors and oversee the annual financial audit.

o Serve as the organization’s Audit Officer, ensuring adherence to financial policies, internal controls, and state/federal regulations.

o Implement and enforce fiscal controls and procedures across all departments.

· Accounting & Financial Management

o Supervise all accounts payable, receivable, payroll, journal entries, and other accounting functions.

o Monitor city projects using project accounting methods and ensure proper documentation of grant expenditures.

o Oversee all disbursements, bank reconciliations, and cash flow management.

o Maintain compliance with grant funding requirements and prepare financial reports for grant applications.

· Leadership & Team Development

o Provide guidance and mentorship to accounting team members, including Accounting Specialists and Accountant II staff.

o Assist in policy development, process improvements, and financial best practices implementation.

o Provide training on accounting software systems and coordinate with IT teams/vendors to troubleshoot issues.

· Strategic Planning & Operations

o Collaborate with leadership on budget preparation and capital improvement plans.

o Develop and update financial policies and procedures, ensuring they align with regulatory changes.

o Lead fixed asset inventory tracking, including depreciation schedules and year-end reconciliations.

Benefits Package:

· Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance.

· Washington State Public Employees Retirement System (PERS) participation.

· Paid Time Off (PTO) + Exempt Leave + Paid Holidays.

· Professional development, training opportunities, and career growth pathways.

If this role is of interest, attach a copy of your CV for review.

Requirements

Required Qualifications:

· Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field.

·5+ years of experience in public sector accounting, financial reporting, or municipal finance.

·3+ years of supervisory experience, managing accounting teams.

· Strong knowledge of GASB and BARS reporting standards.

· Proficiency in financial software systems and ERP platforms.

· Excellent analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills.

Preferred Qualifications:

· CPA, CGFM, or CPFO certification (or willingness to obtain).

· Prior experience in municipal finance or government accounting.

· Familiarity with grant management and intergovernmental funding.

· Bilingual (English/Spanish) is a plus.

Additional Requirements:

· Must possess a valid driver’s license (or obtain one before hire).

· Ability to pass a credit and background check (must be bondable).

· Must obtain First Aid/CPR/AED certification within six months of hire.