Accountant

Bristol Township • Bristol, PA

8d • Onsite

About The Position

The Government Accountant performs professional-level governmental accounting work that requires advanced knowledge of public-sector accounting principles, systems, and practices. Under general supervision of the Township Finance Officer, this position examines, analyzes, and interprets accounting records to prepare financial statements, reports, and budgets; evaluates financial data prepared by others; and supports audits, grants, capital projects, and financial reporting. This Government Accountant plays a key part in ensuring transparency, accountability, and proper stewardship of public funds.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, Business, or a related field; or Associate’s degree in a related field plus three (3) years of relevant accounting experience.
• Knowledge of GAAP, GASB standards, fund accounting, internal controls, budgeting, municipal finance, payroll, accounts payable, and financial reporting systems.
• Ability to analyze accounting transactions, financial data, and systems and prepare complex reports and analyses with accuracy.
• Ability to apply arithmetic and basic statistical concepts to accounting and financial problems.
• Ability to use and improve computerized accounting systems, Microsoft Office applications, and financial management software.
• Ability to identify areas for improvement and recommend and implement effective solutions.
• Ability to communicate clearly, both orally and in writing, and to train others on accounting procedures and financial reporting.
• Ability to evaluate options, apply professional judgment, and resolve complex accounting issues.
• Ability to work effectively with departments, auditors, vendors, and the public while supporting a team-based work environment.
• Ability to safeguard public funds, maintain confidentiality, and demonstrate ethical professional conduct.

Nice To Haves

• Experience in governmental accounting preferred.
• Certified Public Accountant (CPA) certification preferred.

Responsibilities

• Prepare, review, and maintain accurate governmental accounting records in accordance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP) and Governmental Accounting Standards Board (GASB) requirements.
• Prepare financial statements, schedules, work papers, projections, and supporting documentation.
• Perform monthly and year-end journal entries, reconciliations, and general ledger closing activities.
• Assist with preparation of year-end financial reports and the Township’s Comprehensive Audit.
• Maintain and reconcile bank accounts, investment activity summaries, and fund balances.
• Maintain governmental, enterprise, special revenue, clearing, and capital project fund records.
• Assist departments with operating and capital budget preparation, coding, documentation, and analysis.
• Monitor revenues and expenditures to ensure funds are available and expenditures are properly classified.
• Research and analyze transactions to resolve accounting and budget issues.
• Support internal and external audits by preparing schedules, documentation, and explanations.
• Verify accuracy of financial records and identify correcting entries as needed.
• Monitor state and federal grants for financial compliance and reporting requirements.
• Prepare grant reimbursement requests and maintain grant-related accounting records.
• Maintain fixed and capital asset records and schedules within the financial system.
• Ensure grant requirements, correcting entries, and compliance documentation are completed accurately and on time.
• Review and improve accounting systems, procedures, and internal controls.
• Recommend and help implement system and process improvements.
• Learn, interpret, and implement new or emerging accounting and financial reporting standards.
• Assist with development of structured accounting procedures and audit work paper systems.
• Advise managers and staff on financial, accounting, and operational matters.
• Review and process payments for contracts, expenses, purchase orders, and grant amendments.
• Assist with accounts receivable and follow-up on past-due accounts.
• Train employees on financial and accounting software and processes as needed.
• Respond to requests for service from departments, auditors, and external partners.
• Perform other accounting and related duties as assigned.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level