Accounting Specialist

Basic Function

Under the direction of the Accounting Manager, perform complex, professional-level accounting duties including the preparation and maintenance of accounting records involving complex sets of accounts such as accounts receivable, accounts payable, payroll, customer service and cashiering functions; analyze, audit, research, and reconcile records and reports to assure accuracy and completeness. This position will assist accounts payable and payroll.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Receipt monies and run daily reports, collect deposits from other departments, balance and prepare daily bank deposit.

Perform centralized accounts receivable functions, including sending past due accounts to collections and monitoring receivables; bill and process accounts receivable on a periodic basis or as required; assure compliance with billing guidelines, ordinances and interlocal agreements.

Review and audit information entered into the payroll system for accuracy and completeness to detect and prevent errors and to ensure city policy, collective bargaining agreements, and Federal and State laws are followed.

Perform centralized payroll functions including but not limited to, auditing timesheets and entry of employee maintenance, benefits, and deductions computing payout figures, retroactive increases, adjustments, and garnishments; process payroll, including pension payments, payroll tax reporting, employment benefits, deposits, and other payroll-related matters; prepare monthly and quarterly reports as needed; sort and distribute employee payroll checks.

Respond to numerous requests for payroll information; provide explanation of calculations to employees; assist with audits; use computer programs to generate special reports on request. Research and compile payroll and staffing information quickly upon request.

Answer incoming telephone lines and provide in-person customer service at the front counter. Assist citizens and businesses with issues related to business registration and special permit requirements.

Process, maintain and distribute a variety of forms, records and documents, including non-sufficient funds checks and invoices; prepare and follow up with legal notices as required. Prepare and maintain bookkeeping records on assigned accounts such as LID and other special assessment programs as assigned.

Perform centralized accounts payable functions, review invoices and purchase orders for accuracy and process payment to vendor accounts, advance travel funds, expense claims, mileage reimbursements and other employee reimbursements; assist in check-run process; match invoice total to report totals and resolve discrepancies as required; and assist in running reports and printing checks.

Reconcile and disburse checks/wires such as direct deposits, deferred compensation plans, Department of Retirement Systems, Municipal Employee’s Benefit Trust, Social Security, deductions, benefits, garnishments, payroll taxes, W-2’s, 1095, and all related payroll reports.

Maintain confidentiality regarding sensitive information and confidential records.

Maintain regular, reliable, and punctual attendance.

Perform related duties as assigned.

Education and Experience

Any combination equivalent to: Associates degree in accounting, or closely related field, AND three (3) years increasingly responsible payroll, financial or accounting experience involving the use of automated systems; OR any combination of relevant education and experience which would demonstrate the knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform the essential functions of the job. Municipal experience preferred.

Knowledge and Abilities

Knowledge of:

• Accounting principles, practices and procedures.
• Procedures, policies, rules and practices affecting the development, maintenance and control of budgeting and accounting systems for government.
• Data processing applications to accounting and auditing functions.
• Principles of training and providing work direction.
• Methods, procedures and terminology related to accounts receivable, accounts payable, payroll and other duties as assigned.
• Payroll taxes.
• Modern office practices, procedures and equipment.
• Correct English usage, grammar, spelling, punctuation, and vocabulary.
• Oral and written communication skills.
• Interpersonal skills using tact, patience and courtesy.
• City organization, operations, policies and objectives.

• Perform complex, professional-level accounting duties including the preparation and maintenance of accounting records involving complex sets of accounts such as accounts receivable, accounts payable, and payroll. Analyze, audit, research, and reconcile records and reports to assure accuracy and completeness.
• Analyze, balance, audit, and reconcile payroll and accounting records.
• Provide technical information and assistance to others concerning payroll and related policies and procedures.
• Understand complex rules, interpret and apply regulations and contacts from IRS, State, City, and employee unions.
• Prepare clear and accurate financial records and reports.
• Record and input data and make arithmetical calculations with speed and accuracy.
• Attend to detail in the preparation of records and reports.
• Perform technical accounting duties related to assigned fiscal programs and activities.
• Work independently with little direction as well as contribute to the Finance Team as needed.
• Analyze situations accurately and adopt an effective course of action.
• Establish and maintain harmonious working relationships with those contacted in the course of work; demonstrating tact, diplomacy and patience.
• Communicate effectively both orally and in writing.
• Meet schedules and time lines with frequent interruptions.
• Maintain records and prepare reports.
• Operate a variety of office equipment, including a personal computer including spreadsheet, word processing, printer, calculator, copier and FAX machine.
• Physical ability to perform the essential job functions.
• Positively and effectively interact with diverse individuals to accomplish a common goal.

The City of Federal Way offers a complete benefits package to regular status full-time employees including health care, dental, vision, retirement, deferred compensation plans, flexible spending accounts, life insurance, long-term disability, holidays, vacation, and sick leave.

Regular status part-time employees, receive benefits on a pro-rated basis.