Accountant I/II

Job Description:

Accountant I/II

Description

Description/Special Instructions

The City of Elk Grove is now accepting applications for the position of

ACCOUNTANT I/II

Accountant I: $70,448 - $94,420 annually
Accountant II : $77,840 - $104,327 annually

The City of Elk Grove is seeking a skilled Accountant I/II to join the Finance Department! The ideal candidate is a detail-oriented and analytical professional with a strong foundation in governmental accounting principles. They have hands-on experience in fund accounting, financial reporting, account reconciliation, and remain up to date with current GASB standards and implementation procedures. This individual thrives in a collaborative environment, demonstrates a strong commitment to public service, and takes a proactive approach to identifying and resolving issues. They possess excellent communication skills and can clearly interpret and explain financial data to both finance and non-finance audiences. They possess a strong understanding of Microsoft Excel formulas and functions that are commonly used in accounting and financial reporting. A proven ability to manage multiple priorities, meet tight deadlines, and maintain accuracy under pressure while working independently is essential. A passion for innovation, continuous improvement, and fiscal responsibility will enable this candidate to support the City’s goals with integrity and excellence.

The Department will be creating an eligibility list which will be used to fill a vacancy at either the Accountant I or II level. Placement, both at level I or II and withing the salary range, will be made dependent upon the qualifications of the candidate.

Tentative Recruitment Timeline (subject to change)
Filing Deadline: 11:59 PM on May 20, 2025
Oral Board Interviews: June 5, 2025 (virtual)
Final Selection Interviews: June 10, 2025 (in person)

The City offers a competitive salary and generous benefit package including CalPERS retirement benefits, a deferred compensation match and more.

Why work for the City of Elk Grove? Proud Heritage. Bright Future.

Community Profile
Elk Grove is a vibrant, family-friendly community of approximately 178,124 people in the Sacramento, California region, located 14 miles south of the State Capital and 60 miles east of the Bay Area. Elk Grove is a young, ethnically diverse, modern city that was incorporated in 2000. Elk Grove has low crime, excellent schools, over 100 community parks and 28 miles of trails, plentiful dining and shopping options, numerous annual events and festivals, and over 270 sunny days per year.

Representative Duties

DEFINITION

Under immediate (Accountant I) to general supervision (Accountant II) , performs a variety of professional accounting, auditing, analytical , and statistical work involved in preparing, reviewing, maintaining, verifying, and reconciling complex financial transactions, statements, records, and reports; performs a variety of grant administration duties; assists in the development and implement ation of new accounting policies, procedures and standards; and provides responsible staff assistance to assigned management staff , and performs related duties as assigned .

SUPERVISION RECEIVED AND EXERCISED

Receives general supervision (Accountant I) to direction (Accountant II) from the Accounting Manager . Exercises no direct supervision over staff.

CLASS CHARACTERISTICS

Accountant I : This is the entry level classification in the Accountant series . Initially under close supervision, incumbents learn and perform routine accounting duties, including the preparation of financial reports, analysis, and reconciliation of financial statements in support of the programs and functions of the Finance Department , and assist s in the development of financial policies and procedures. As experience is gained, assignments become more varied, complex, and difficult. Close supervision and frequent review of work lessen as an incumbent demonstrates skill to perform the work independently. Positions at this level usually perform most of the duties required of positions at the II- level but are not expected to function at the same skill level and usually exercise less independent discretion and judgment in matters related to work procedures and methods. Work is usually supervised while in progress and fits an established structure or pattern. Exceptions or changes in procedures are explained in detail as they arise.

Accountant II: This is the journey level classification in the Accountant series . Positions at this level are distinguished from the I-level by the performance of the full range of duties as assigned, working independently, and exercising judgment and initiative. Positions at this level receive only occasional instruction or assistance as new or unusual situations arise and are fully aware of the operating procedures and policies of the work unit.

Positions in the Accountant class series are flexibly staffed and positions at the II-level are normally filled by advancement from the next lower level upon management approval, after gaining the knowledge, skill, and experience which meet the qualifications for and after demonstrating the ability to perform the work of the higher-level class , subject to budgetary funds.

EXAMPLES OF TYPICAL JOB FUNCTIONS (Illustrative Only)

Management reserves the right to add, modify, change, or rescind the work assignments of different positions and to make reasonable accommodations so that qualified employees can perform the essential functions of the job.

Some duties, knowledge, skills, and abilities may be performed /e xercised in a learning capacity for entry-level (I -level ) positions.

• P repares , p roduces, and distributes the Annual Comprehensive Financial Report ( ACFR ) and supporting schedules; reviews, reconciles and prepares audit spreadsheets, reports and year end journal entries and interacts extensively with internal and external auditors.
  
• Prepare s , maintain s , analyze s , verif ies , and reconcile s complex financial transactions, statements, records, and reports; performs month end reconciliation between subledgers and the general ledger.
  
• Maintains accounting records and prepares required reports for federal, state, county, and other external funding sources in accordance with reporting requirements ; monitors and reviews accurate coding and classification of revenues and expenditures ; monitors monthly budget to actual expenditures .
  
• Performs a variety of grant administration duties; interprets grant award agreements and monitors for compliance; provides grant accounting and prepares required financial reports; maintains accounting records and documentation related to state , federal, local, and other funding sources; ensures proper billing, collection, and spending of grant funds.
  
• Assists in the implementation of new accounting systems, establishing internal controls and procedures and provid ing guidance and training to other staff and City departments; makes recommendations for changes and improvements to existing standards, policies, and procedures.
  
• Compiles and prepares financial statements and supporting schedules; reviews statements and performs analytical reviews and reconciliation of general ledger accounts to subsidiary ledgers and bank statements.
  
• Review s and interpret s contracts, agreements, and memorand a of understanding for cash receipts and payments ; c alculate s and create s any necessary policies and procedures for these new activities to ensure proper monitoring, postings, and reporting.
  
• Review s financial transactions and journal entry requests from other departments and provide s support on how to resolve issues, including developing journal entries and collaborating with budget and purchasing staff.
  
• Assist s in the preparation of the cash management process, including researching cash receipts, and posting strategies, bank reconciliations, check s , and automated clearinghouse (ACH) processing and payment review and approval.
  
• Participates in the development and maintenance of accounting policies and procedures;?coordinates the development and implementation of policies and procedures with staff.
  
• Serve s as a consultant to management and staff on accounting processes, rules and regulations and their effects on new city activities, programs, or proposed process changes.
  
• Provide s budget analytical support to management and department staff, as well as auditors and external agencies ; p rovide s reports, schedules and complete s necessary forms for external governmental agencies ; file s quarterly and annual reports required by f ederal and s tate agencies .
  
• Attend s training conferences, webinars , and meetings ; provide s information and education for management and staff on how to implement new guidance, rules, and regulations.
  
• Responds to public inquiries in a courteous manner; provides information within the area of assignment; resolves issues in an efficient and timely manner.
  
• Performs related duties as assigned.
  

Qualifications

QUALIFICATIONS

Knowledge of:

• Pertinent federal, state, and local laws, codes, and regulations and practices related to the investment of public funds, municipal budget preparation and control.
  
• Principles and practices of automated financial systems.
  
• Principles and practices of public agency fiscal management including general and governmental accounting, budgeting, auditing, and reporting functions as well as Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP) and Governmental Accounting Standards Board (GASB).
  
• Principles and procedures of record keeping.
  
• Principles of municipal budget and accounting; grants preparation and monitoring.
  
• Uses and application of electronic data processing in the maintenance of accounting records, budget preparation.
  
• Techniques for effectively representing the City in contacts with governmental agencies, community groups, and various business, professional, educational, regulatory, and legislative organizations.
  
• Recent and on-going developments, current literature, and sources of information related to the operations of the assigned division.
  
• Methods and techniques of preparing technical and administrative reports, and general business correspondence.
  
• City and mandated safety rules, regulations, and protocols.
  
• Techniques for providing a high level of customer service by effectively dealing with the public, vendors, contractors, and City staff.
  
• Diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging concepts and principles, including their significance in organizational dynamics and the functioning of the City and their impact on fostering innovation and collaboration.
  
• The structure and content of the English language, including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition, and grammar.
  
• Current equipment and communication tools used for business functions and program, project, and task coordination, including computers and software programs relevant to work performed.
  

Ability to:

• Prepare a variety of budgets, financial statements, reports, and analy s e s; a nalyze, post, balance, and reconcile financial data, ledgers, and accounts.
  
• Make accurate mathematical calculations .
  
• Make sound independent judgments within established guidelines.
  
• Manage multiple projects simultaneously and be sensitive to changing priorities and deadlines.
  
• Prepare a variety of budgets, financial statements, reports, and analyses.
  
• Review and interpret financial reports and legal documents.
  
• Understand the organization and operation of the City and of outside agencies as necessary to assume assigned responsibilities .
  
• Understand, interpret, and apply general and specific administrative and departmental policies and procedures as well as applicable federal, state, and local policies, laws, and regulations.
  
• Work independently without supervision.
  
• Effectively use computer systems, software applications relevant to work performed, and modern business equipment to perform a variety of work tasks.
  

• Communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing, using appropriate English grammar and syntax.
  

• Use tact, initiative, prudence, and independent judgment within general policy , procedural, and legal guidelines.
  
• Engage with a diverse public and workforce, facilitating inclusive service delivery, and implementing equitable city policies.
  
• Establish, maintain , and foster positive and effective working relationships with those contacted in the course of work.
  

Education and Experience:

• A ccountant I/II: Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university with major coursework in accounting, business, public administration, or a directly related field .
  
• Accountant I : One (1) year responsible accounting experience.
  

• Accountant II : Three (3) years of increasingly responsible professional accounting experience including two (2) years in a municipal or similar setting .
  

Licenses and Certifications:

• None.
  

Physical Demands and Work Environment

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

Must possess mobility to work in a standard office setting and use standard office equipment, including a computer; vision to read printed materials and a computer screen; and hearing and speech to communicate in person and over the telephone . Standing in and walking between work areas is frequently required . Finger dexterity is needed to access, enter, and retrieve data using a computer keyboard or calculator and to operate standard office equipment . Positions in this classification frequently bend, stoop, kneel, and reach to perform assigned duties, as well as push and pull drawers open and closed to retrieve and file information . Employees must possess the ability to lift, carry, push, and pull materials and objects up to 10 pounds. Reasonable accommodations will be made for individuals with disabilities who are qualified to perform essential functions of a position or positions within this classification.

ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS

Employees work in an office environment with moderate noise levels, controlled temperature conditions, and no direct exposure to hazardous physical substances. Employees may interact with upset staff and/or public and private representatives in interpreting and enforcing departmental policies and procedures.

FLSA Status:

Accountant I: Non-exempt

Accountant II: Exempt

The information listed above is subject to change and does not constitute either an expressed or implied contract. The City of Elk Grove is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to creating a work environment in which all individuals are treated with respect and professionalism. In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, should special accommodations be necessary at any stage of the selection process, please contact the Human Resources Department at (916) 478-2230.

CITY OF ELK GROVE

EMPLOYEE BENEFIT SUMMARY - NON REPRESENTED

Annual Leave (vacation/sick)
Upon Hire 176 hours 6.77 hours per pay period
5 Year Anniversary 216 hours 8.31 hours per pay period
10 Year Anniversary 232 hours 8.92 per pay period
15 Year Anniversary 256 hours 9.85 hours per pay period
20 Year anniversary 272 hours 10.46 per pay period

Deferred Compensation

Employee may participate in a 457 deferred compensation plan up to maximum allowed by law.

Deferred Compensation - City Match

The City will match up to 4% of employee's salary to a deferred compensation plan. There is a 1 year vesting period.

Employee Assistance Program

Available to employee and immediate family.

Flexible Spending Account

Covers IRS approved medical and/or approved dependent care expenses to be paid on a pre-tax basis.

• Medical spending up to $3,300.00 annually.
• Dependent care up to $5,000 annually.
• Adoption Assistance FSA up to $16,810 annually.

Health (Medical) Insurance
The City participates in the CalPERS Health Plan (PEMHCA) and offers a "cafeteria plan," which includes a monthly City contribution that an employee may apply toward premiums for medical insurance.

The City's Contribution rates for the 2025 plan year are as follows:

Single: up to $1,001.61 per month
2-Party: up to $2,003.22 per month
Family: up to $2,604.19 per month

Employees who show evidence of other group health insurance coverage and waive enrollment in a CalPERS health plan shall receive a taxable in lieu cash fringe allowance of $300 per month.

Dental Insurance
100% City paid for employee and eligible dependents if enrolled in the City's medical plan.

Vision Insurance
100% City paid for employee and eligible dependents if enrolled in the City's medical plan.

Pet Insurance
City employees are eligible to purchase pet insurance at a discounted premium rate through MetLife.

Supplemental Health Insurance
The City provides supplemental health insurance up to $15,000 per year for eligible participants.

Retirement Health savings Account

City provided defined contribution program for IRS-eligible medical expenses upon retirement.

Holidays

Twelve (12) paid holidays per year and sixteen (16) floating holiday hours per fiscal year. Employees who are assigned by the Police Chief to work shifts receive a 5% Holiday Pay Differential in lieu of paid holidays and eight (8) floating holiday hours per fiscal year.

Alternative Work Schedules
Available depending on Department

Life Insurance

City provides Life insurance at 1X base salary with a minimum of $50,000 and maximum of $300,000. Additional life insurance may be purchased by employee up to a maximum of $500,000.

Military Leave

The City will pay qualified employees any difference between his/her base salary and the amount received in military reserve pay for regularly scheduled annual training that requires the employee to take military leave from his/her regular work week.

Retirement -PERS
Your CalPERS Pension formula will be dependent upon your hire date with the City of Elk Grove and/or your status with any Public Retirement System.

• 2.7% at 55 if hired before 8/12/12.
• 2% at 55 if hired after 8/12/12 and a current Classic member of CalPERS.
• 2% at 62 if hired after 1/1/13 and not a Classic member of CalPERS.

Internal applicants will remain in their current retirement formula unless they are moving from a safety to miscellaneous classification.

Short Term/Long Term Disability

• The City provides Short-Term Disability coverage @ 66.67% of income, up to a maximum benefit of $2,300 per week and Long-Term Disability coverage @ 66.67% of income, up to a maximum benefit of $15,000 per month.
• The City also provides Paid Family Leave coverage @ 60-70% of weekly earnings up to a maximum of $,1623 per week.

City employees DO NOT contribute to the California State Disability Insurance (SDI) program.

Social Security

City offers an IRS qualifying retirement plan, therefore, employees do not currently participate in the Social Security program.

Tuition Reimbursement

80% up to $2,000/year for City related Certification programss.
80% up to 3,500/year for Associates, Bachelors or Masters Degree

Wellness Program

Amazing on-site Wellness Coordinator and multiple fitness and wellness classes such as yoga and pilates available throughout the week!

Closing Date/Time: 5/20/2025 11:59 PM Pacific

Salary:

$70,448.00 - $104,327.00 Annually