Accountant - Washington State Ferries

State of Washington • King County - Seattle – Belltown, WA

16h • Hybrid

About The Position

The Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) is seeking an Accountant to support the financial integrity of Washington State Ferries (WSF), the nation's largest ferry system. This role is crucial for ensuring accurate and timely financial operations, including vendor payments and compliance with accounting standards, regulations, and agency policies. The position plays a vital role in providing critical financial information for informed decision-making and the efficient stewardship of public resources, ultimately supporting safe and reliable ferry service. WSF is undergoing a significant transformation to decarbonize its system, guided by core values and strategic priorities, making it a meaningful time to join the team.

Requirements

• Growth Mindset – Actively demonstrates a commitment to learning and growth.
• Service-Oriented – Demonstrates a willingness to take action to meet the needs of others.
• Fostering Respect and Equal Opportunity - Experience contributing to a work environment that fosters a culture of respect and equal opportunity.
• Customer Service & Communication - Clearly and professionally communicate, both verbally and in writing, with diverse internal and external customers; actively listen to understand needs and respond appropriately.
• Teamwork & Collaboration - Work cooperatively and respectfully with colleagues to meet shared goals, contributing to a positive and productive team environment.
• Knowledge of GAAP – ability to understand and apply Federal and State regulations to business functions
• Financial Analysis & Reconciliation – Ability to analyze and enter financial data, identify discrepancies, enter adjustments and ensure accurate reporting.
• Research applicable state laws, rules, policies and procedures related to area of responsibility.
• Technical Proficiency - Use Microsoft Office applications (Excel, Outlook, Teams) at a basic level to create, edit, and share documents, spreadsheets, and communications.
• Problem solving & Critical Thinking – Identifies financial issues and implements corrective solutions.
• Independence & Initiative - Work with minimal supervision, taking responsibility for completing tasks and proactively identifying opportunities to improve processes.
• Detail oriented and organized - Ensures fiscal accuracy, follows policies, and maintains financial integrity, ability to work in a fast-paced environment with frequent deadlines.

Nice To Haves

• System Proficiency – Demonstrate proficiency in WSDOT financial and administrative platforms, including TRAINS, Credit Card System, ILinx and other agency systems, to accurately process transactions and access information.
• Public Sector Accounting Skills – Use knowledge of public sector accounting standards and procedures to review transactions, resolve discrepancies, and ensure compliance.

Responsibilities

• Process complex vendor payments by reviewing, verifying, and entering invoices, purchase orders, receiving documents, and supporting records to ensure timely and accurate payments.
• Analyze and reconcile expenditure data, financial records, and source documents; research and resolve discrepancies.
• Maintain accounting records, spreadsheets, and supporting documentation in compliance with accounting standards and agency requirements.
• Prepare and process journal entries, accruals, tax reports, and other accounting transactions; reconcile general ledger and subsidiary accounts.
• Review and approve payment transactions, Credit Card System transactions, and journal vouchers in accordance with established policies and deadlines.
• Collaborate with WSF staff and vendors to resolve accounting and payment issues; provide fiscal guidance and training as needed.
• Prepare, analyze, and distribute financial reports to support accounting operations and management decision-making.
• Provide customer service and technical assistance regarding payment processes, Credit Card System requirements, financial procedures, and system-related issues.
• Uphold WSF’s strategic priorities (Service Excellence, Improved Communication, and Empowered People) and values (Serve, Grow, Trust, Respect, and Navigate), ensuring they are embedded in WSF’s culture through leadership actions.

Benefits

• Paid Leave – In addition to 12 paid holidays, full-time employees may earn up to 25 paid vacation days per year!
• Tuition Assistance – Permanent employees have several options for assistance with education expenses, including tuition reimbursement programs, government discounts at participating colleges throughout the state, and eligibility for federal student loan forgiveness.
• Plan For Your Future – WSDOT offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes a variety of healthcare options. Employees also have their choice of state retirement programs, and much more.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: No Education Listed