Finance Officer

Job Title: Finance Officer
Location: City of Hawarden, Iowa
Reports To: City Administrator

Position Summary:

The City of Hawarden is seeking a detail-oriented and strategic Finance Officer to oversee and manage the City’s financial operations. This position plays a critical role in supporting the City Administrator with the fiscal stewardship of municipal resources, ensuring compliance with financial regulations, and maintaining transparent and accurate financial reporting.

Key Responsibilities:

• Assist the City Administrator with all aspects of financial management and planning.
• Lead the preparation of the annual city budget and provide regular oversight of departmental budgets.
• Maintain and reconcile the City’s general ledger and financial records.
• Manage city investments, disbursement of funds, debt service, and grant funding.
• Prepare payroll and conduct monthly reconciliation of all city accounts.
• Attend and present financial reports at City Council meetings.
• Ensure compliance with local, state, and federal financial regulations.
• Provide leadership and direction for financial staff and city personnel involved in fiscal operations.
• Coordinate audits and work with external auditors to ensure accurate reporting.
• Analyze financial trends and provide insights to support city planning and decision-making.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in Finance, Accounting, Business, Public Administration, or a related field is preferred.
• 3–5 years of accounting or financial management experience is preferred.
• Strong understanding of municipal accounting principles and government finance regulations is a plus.
• Proficiency in financial software, spreadsheets, and accounting systems.
• Knowledge of accounting principles and practices required.
• Exceptional organizational and time management skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Demonstrated leadership and supervisory abilities.

Compensation & Benefits:

• Salary: Commensurate with qualifications and experience.
• Benefits:
• Paid health and life insurance for the employee
• Paid vacation days, sick days, and holidays
• Participation in the Iowa Public Employees’ Retirement System (IPERS)

Job Type: Full-time

Benefits:

• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Paid time off

Schedule:

• Day shift
• Monday to Friday

Education:

• Bachelor's (Preferred)

Experience:

• Accounting: 3 years (Preferred)

Ability to Relocate:

• Hawarden, IA 51023: Relocate before starting work (Required)

Work Location: In person