WW Utility Accounting Technician

Class specifications are intended to present a descriptive list of the range of duties performed by employees in the class.  Specifications are not intended to reflect all duties performed within the job.
 
DEFINITION
This position performs clerical and para-professional accounting work in support of utility accounting functions. Positions may be assigned to different functional work groups (such as accounts payable, accounts receivable, general accounting, payroll accounting, or related financial area) but the nature and scope of the work, specific procedures/processes applied and general knowledge requirements will be comparable. In general, work involves checking, matching, researching data, and verifying accuracy of accounting documents in order to process, record, balance, and/or reconcile transactions, data, and/or input/output in accordance with established internal guidelines, procedures, and practices. Much of the work is executed through computer systems with system edits in place to flag improper entries and facilitate the review process. Job duties range from clerical and administrative to para-professional and require basic knowledge of accounting concepts and practices.  Job duties include customer service in person and over the phone.
 
SUPERVISION RECEIVED AND EXERCISED
Receives general supervision from assigned supervisory or management staff.
 ESSENTIAL AND MARGINAL FUNCTION STATEMENTS   Essential and other important responsibilities and duties may include, but are not limited to, the following:
Essential Functions:
 
Performs duties and responsibilities commensurate with assigned functional area which may include any combination of the following tasks:

1. Entering pre-reviewed data in computer or manual accounting system(s) to process transactions relative to assigned accounting support function in a timely, comprehensive, and error-free manner. 
2. Updating data by executing appropriate corrections, additions, and deletions. 
3. Balancing and/or reconciling transactions, accounts, and/or data entry in accordance with standard practice.
4. Processing work in a manner that results in a complete and evident audit trail. 
5. Preparing comprehensive and accurate documentation of transactions and adjustments. 
6. Maintaining files in a timely and complete manner and ensuring that all documentation is filed appropriately and is accessible as required. 
7. Receiving continuous on-the-job training to identify tools, resources, and other sources of information that will be relevant to the type/nature of accounting-related activities and assignments. 
8. Attending periodic training sessions designed to impart updated information for use as reference/resource in performing job duties. 
9. Ensuring that personal reference materials are maintained in timely and comprehensive manner to forestall the application or dissemination of inaccurate information. 
10. Maintaining positive customer relationships by providing prompt and appropriate responses to inquiries/issues/concerns. 
11. Following through with respect to commitments and corrections, providing customer with confirmation of actions taken, and referring matters outside personal scope of authority to appropriate individual/s. 
12. Reviewing routine finance/accounting-related transactions. 
13. Inputting/outputting records, reports, invoices, vouchers, journal adjustments and ledgers with timeliness, completeness, and reasonableness. 
14. Validating accuracy of data and compliance with explicit internal requirements, coding conventions, procedures, and guidelines. 
15. Identifying questionable and/or potentially non-compliant data/matters. 
16. Initiating prompt action to correct/resolve independently where a standard course of action is clearly prescribed, seeking the assistance of more experienced employees in the handling of non-routine or precedent-setting matters. 
17. Contacting internal and external customers in order to explain procedural requirements, question/validate data provided, gather additional information, request clarification/backup documentation, correct inaccuracies, and/or to address other needs/issues prior (or subsequent) to the initiation of processing activities; following up to ensure pending issues are resolved. 
18. Keeping supervisor informed of non-routine issues and recommendations made.

 
Marginal Functions:
Provide support as a team member when needed, such as back up during absences and assistance with projects as assigned.

Knowledge of:

• Principles of accounting including fundamentals relating to debits/credits and their relationship to the general ledger.
• Standards and practices for establishing and maintaining valid accounting documentation and a credible audit trail.
• State and/or local regulations affecting the assigned accounting function.
• Accounting practices relating to the proofing and balancing of accounts, transactions, and/or data entry.

 Ability to:

• Participate and work effectively in an organization committed to advancing principles and practices of equity and anti-racism.
• Source information relevant to the assigned function and the nature of questions typically received.
• Competently use modern office procedures, practices, and equipment. 
• Develop and maintain current knowledge of the functionality, operation, and application of internal computer systems sufficient to effectively complete work assignments.
• Establish and maintain effective working relationships as required by job responsibilities.
• Gain and apply knowledge of daily operating procedures and internal standards, processes, and procedures as they relate to the assigned accounting function.
• Comply with documentation standards relative to the assigned accounting function.
• Provide customer service with courtesy and professionalism; in person, by email or over the phone.

Experience and Training Guidelines

Any combination of experience and training that would likely provide the required knowledge and abilities is qualifying.  A typical way to obtain the knowledge and abilities would be:

Experience

Two years of increasingly responsible finance, purchasing or accounting experience.

Training:

Equivalent to the completion of the twelfth grade supplemented by college level course work in finance, accounting, or purchasing or a related field.

The City's mission is to fulfill the community’s vision through highly valued public service. Our employees work relentlessly to achieve organizational goals while embracing the City’s values. City Mission, Values, and Goals.

Application Process: 

To demonstrate skills and interest, please complete the application and provide answers to the Supplemental Questions which will help us determine your qualifications for the job. (This application does NOT allow for attachments.)

Conditions Of Employment:

• All candidates will be required to establish employment authorization and identity at the time of hire. The City is not able to sponsor work visas.
• All positions require the completion of reference checks, including at least one prior supervisor.

WORKING CONDITIONS:

Environmental Conditions:

Employees Working Remotely:

The City has implemented a remote work policy that allows staff to work up to three remote days a week, however during the 6-month orientation period it is expected that all work will be performed at City Hall. Full-time remote work is not an option. Once hired, employees must reside in the State of Washington. 

Salary : $32 - $41