Accountant

General Description

The Accountant is responsible for performing a variety of financial and accounting functions, including bank reconciliations, financial reporting, and assisting with budgetary and auditing processes. This position also serves as a backup to the Assistant Finance Director, assisting in overseeing financial operations and ensuring compliance with municipal, state, and federal regulations.

Duties and Responsibilities

The functions listed below are those that represent the majority of the time spent working in this position. Management may assign additional functions related to the type of work of the position as necessary.

• Perform monthly bank reconciliations to ensure accuracy between city financial records and bank statements.
• Investigate and resolve discrepancies in financial transactions.
• Prepare financial reports, including cash flow statements, fund balance reports, and reconciliation summaries.
• Assist in reconciling subsidiary ledgers to the general ledger.
• Record and post journal entries to the general ledger.
• Monitor and review financial transactions to ensure compliance with accounting standards and policies.
• Assist with month-end and year-end closing processes.
• Maintain accurate financial records and ensure timely reporting. Daily review is required.
• Assist in the preparation of annual budgets and financial forecasts.
• Provide support for internal and external audits, including gathering necessary documentation.
• Assist in reviewing financial policies and procedures to improve internal controls.
• Serve as a backup to the Assistant Finance Director, stepping in as needed to oversee financial operations.
• Reviews payroll finalization reports and submits to Assistant Finance Director for approval.
• Assist in financial decision-making, ensuring compliance with municipal financial policies.
• Review financial data and reports to support strategic planning and fiscal management.
• Participate in meetings and presentations related to finance and budget management.
• Performs other related duties as required.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Comprehensive knowledge of the Uniform Chart of Accounts.
• Familiarity with Georgia record maintenance and retention laws.
• Understanding of all financial modules that impact daily accounting operations.
• Expertise in municipal accounting, fixed assets accounting, finance, budgeting, and auditing principles.
• Strong knowledge of Municipal Accounting Practices and related administrative procedures.
• Proficiency in program budget development, implementation, and financial management.
• Working knowledge of City ordinances, investment policies, municipal property taxes, franchise fees, payroll taxes, and other revenue sources.
• Ability to perform complex mathematical calculations and financial analyses.
• Strong analytical skills to interpret and apply federal, state, and local financial regulations.
• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills with the ability to draft clear and effective reports.
• Ability to work with the Assistant Finance Director to develop accounting procedures manual and fiscal policies in alignment with GASB and GAAP standards.
• Strong problem-solving skills to evaluate alternative methods and solutions for financial challenges.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with City employees, officials, and the general public.
• Commitment to maintaining the highest level of confidentiality in financial matters.