Operations/Accounting Specialist

Are you an accounting professional looking for meaningful work with excellent benefits, a stable schedule, and a supportive team environment?

Whatcom County is seeking an Operations/Accounting Specialist to join our Treasurer’s Office in beautiful Bellingham, WA. This is a great opportunity for someone who enjoys financial analysis, attention to detail, and contributing to the efficient operation of local government.

In this role, you'll:

• Apply your accounting knowledge in a professional and public-service-oriented setting.
• Analyze and maintain complex financial data across multiple funds and systems.
• Work closely with an experienced team that values accuracy, collaboration, and accountability.

Whether you're transitioning from private sector work or have public finance experience, we welcome candidates who are ready to bring their skills to a dependable and mission-driven workplace. As an Operations/Accounting Specialist, you’ll play a vital role in maintaining the financial accuracy and integrity of Whatcom County’s accounting systems. 

Your primary responsibilities will include:

• Prepare complex audit and financial information including schedules, balance sheets, income statements, cashflow and other financial reports.

• Analyze fiscal data to support strategic decisions, provide projections, and offer well-grounded financial recommendations.

• Serve as a project lead for system updates and integrations, working with financial software and emerging technology.

• Maintain and improve internal controls to support transparency, accuracy, and accountability in public funds.

• Ensure financial accuracy and compliance with policies, laws, rules, regulations, internal controls and other requirements.

• Support audits and reviews by preparing and explaining detailed financial documentation.

Supervisor: Chief Deputy Treasurer

For more information please review the job description. 

Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in accounting or a closely related field.
• Two years of progressively responsible experience in accounting.
• One year of advanced experience with financial software applications including database and spreadsheet design and maintenance.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Knowledge of governmental accounting standards and JD Edwards integrated financial management system.
• Experience in local government accounting and integrating financial software applications.
• Completion of the course work requirement for a CPA, including 36 quarter hours of course credit in each of the following: (1) accounting and (2) business.
• College-level courses in management, supervision and training principles and practices.

 At its sole discretion, Whatcom County may consider combinations of education, experience, certifications, and training in lieu of specifically required qualifications contained herein. 

 

Salary Range: 

• MCBA - Range 150.0
  Anticipated Hiring Range:  $30.31 -  $32.72 per hour 

See link for full Salary Range. Hiring rate depends on qualifications.  Hiring rate typically is limited to entry to mid of the posted salary range (posted above), subject to required approvals. This position receives annual pay increases to the next step in the associated salary range (apx. 3.8%) subject to satisfactory performance, in addition to any negotiated Cost of Living Adjustments (COLA).   

Why Join Whatcom County?

• Work-life balance: Regular 8-hour workdays, no overtime expectations
• Outstanding benefits at no cost to employees, including:
  • Full medical, dental, and vision coverage for you and your family
  • Lifetime pension through Washington State PERS
  • Paid vacation, sick leave, and 13 holidays per year
• Professional stability with predictable raises and cost-of-living adjustments
• A chance to make a real impact in your community

Distinguish yourself in public service and make a commitment to our future. 

 Whatcom County, WA is truly special and a great place to call home!

Salary : $30 - $44