Accountant II

POSITION SUMMARY: Under the general direction of the Finance Director, the Accountant II oversees key accounting functions within the City of Cleveland's Accounting Division, which is part of the Finance Department. The Accountant II performs duties in core accounting areas such as accounts receivable, accounts payable, and bank reconciliations, and supports critical financial processes like annual audits, budget preparation, and monthly financial reporting. Essential responsibilities include applying accounting principles and practices within a computerized municipal accounting system to maintain accurate records, monitor expenditures, and prepare financial statements and administrative reports. The role requires close collaboration with city employees, external agencies, and the public to interpret financial regulations, address budgetary and expenditure matters, and facilitate information exchange as needed. This is not a full list of job duties; additional responsibilities may be assigned as needed.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Assist in year-end audit preparation and create the Citys Annual Comprehensive Financial Report (ACFR) along with other financial reports; may prepare or assist with audit work papers, accruals, reconciliation, journal entries, ACFR schedules, and annual reporting.
• Monitor and analyze accounting data and produce financial reports and statements.
• Provide recommendations for policy and procedural improvements within the accounting system.

• Ensure accurate coding of transactions to general ledger accounts; review daily ledger balances and activities.
• Enter routine journal entries and process bank transactions.
• Perform month-end and year-end closing and reconciliation procedures.
• Reconcile, investigate, correct, and adjust accounting information as needed.
• Provide backup for Accounts Payable and Payroll processing when necessary.
• Perform and/or assist with various accounting tasks such as capital assets, grant accounting, revenue tracking, assessment billing, monitoring internal controls, and similar responsibilities.
• Assist in preparing 1099 forms as required by law.
• Monitor and manage accounting for all City capital projects.
• Support the Finance Director in maintaining records consistent with Governmental Accounting Standards Boards (GASB) and Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP).
• Train interdepartmental staff in accounting procedures, internal controls, and finance-related matters; assist other departments/divisions with staff training as needed.
• Research and address department inquiries about account status, payments, account numbers, balances, and correct posting errors; distribute relevant information to department directors.
• Attend meetings and seminars as directed.
• Assist in all finance-related matters as delegated by the Director of Finance.
• Perform special projects and other duties as assigned.

Skills:

• Proficiency in analyzing and interpreting financial data.
• Competency in handling large quantities of data with accuracy.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Proficient computer skills, especially in Microsoft Excel, email, and Word.
• Customer service skills for interacting with customers and vendors.

Abilities:

• Ability to ensure accuracy and timeliness in work output.
• Ability to maintain accurate, legible accounting records.
• Aptitude for numbers with strong attention to detail.
• Excellent problem-solving and conflict resolution skills.
• Capacity to work independently, with minimal supervision.
• Ability to interpret invoices and documents accurately.
• Punctuality and regular attendance are required.
• Ability to understand and follow oral and written instructions.
• Fluency in reading, writing, and speaking English.

Pay Grade: 7

Salary Range: $45,506.24 - $65,984.04, paid bi-weekly, based on experience and qualifications.

Location: City Hall Status: Full- Time, at-will, non-exempt

Hours: Monday to Thursday, 8:00 AM 6:00 PM and Friday, 8:00 AM 12:00 PM

Education and Experience Requirements

Education:

• Bachelors degree in Accounting, Finance, or a closely related field preferred. Equivalent experience of a minimum of 4 years in accounting, preferably within municipal government, may be considered in lieu of a degree, provided the candidate has a high school diploma or GED.

Experience:

• At least four years of experience in accounting, bookkeeping, record-keeping, or accounts receivable/payable/payroll processing, including journal entries and bank reconciliations.
• Prior experience with accounts payable software preferred (such as Incode, QuickBooks, etc.).
• Proficiency with office software including Microsoft Word, Excel, email, and other record-keeping tools.
• Governmental accounting experience is preferred.

Additional Requirements:

• Valid Texas drivers license with an acceptable driving record.
• Successful completion of a pre-employment drug screening, physical examination, and background check.

Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

Knowledge:

• General understanding of Governmental Accounting Standards Boards (GASB) and Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP).
• Familiarity with accounting concepts, techniques, and principles.
• Knowledge of document retention and records management practices.
• Knowledge of general accounting principles and practices.