Assistant Finance Director

City of Elmhurst • Elmhurst, IL

6d • $122,600 - $183,900

About The Position

The Assistant Finance Director oversees and administers the Finance Department’s day-to-day financial operations, ensuring timely and accurate processing and payment of bills and City, Library, and pension payroll. The role oversees reconciliations and financial reporting, maintains the integrity of City financial systems, and provides professional assistance to City departments. It also serves as Acting Finance Director in the Finance Director’s absence.

The position supports the City’s financial and administrative operations, including budgeting, accounting, payroll, utility billing, parking system administration, annual audits, risk management, insurance procurement, general administrative services, and tax increment financing support. It supervises staff and contributes to the quality and effectiveness of Finance Department services through policy and procedure improvements, staff development, and collaboration across departments.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in finance, accounting, public administration, or a related field, and five years of professional experience in accounting operations and four years of supervisory experience; or an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience as determined by Human Resources.
• Illinois driver’s license.
• Knowledge of employee supervision, including selection, work planning, organization, performance evaluation, training, and discipline.
• Knowledge of project management principles and practices.
• Knowledge of generally accepted accounting standards and procedures, especially governmental and fund accounting, financial reporting, and financial statement preparation.
• Knowledge of capital and operational budgeting and funding.
• Knowledge of internal controls over financial reporting and financial operations.
• Knowledge of federal, state, and local laws, rules, and regulations affecting local government fiscal operations.
• Knowledge of team development, employee motivation, record keeping, and correct business English.
• Ability to collaborate with staff, the public, and elected officials.
• Ability to analyze, plan, and direct comprehensive financial operations and develop and monitor fiscal systems compliant with applicable laws and regulations.
• Ability to analyze organizational, administrative, and budgetary matters and recommend effective courses of action.
• Ability to develop and implement goals, objectives, policies, procedures, and work standards.
• Ability to develop effective teams and motivate employees to meet goals and provide cost-effective, efficient customer service.
• Ability to interpret, apply, and explain complex federal, state, and local laws.
• Ability to prepare clear and concise reports, correspondence, and other written materials.
• Ability to use initiative and independent judgment within general policy guidelines.
• Ability to use tact, discretion, and prudence and establish effective working relationships.
• Evening meetings or City events may be required.

Nice To Haves

• Certified public accountant license is preferred but not required.

Responsibilities

• Coordinate and oversee accounts payable, including supervision of the Accounts Payable Coordinator and review of invoices within purchasing policy authority and delegated limits.
• Manage and oversee City and Library payroll processing, supervise the Payroll Specialist, review payroll and monthly pension payroll, and review Form 941 returns and other tax documents.
• Oversee month- and quarter-end functions, including delegating and reviewing journal entries, reviewing and posting general journal entries, reviewing bank reconciliations and reports, and ensuring timely month-end close.
• Oversee annual financial audits and year-end reporting, including audit work papers, annual OPEB and actuarial reports, IDOI reports, year-end close in MUNIS, GATA filings, and tax forms.
• Assist with annual City-wide budget functions, including preparing and reviewing budget areas, reviewing salary and health insurance work papers, and attending budget committee and Council meetings.
• Administer finance functions in the City ERP system MUNIS and the Executime timekeeping system.
• Assist with management and coordination of City fiscal services and systems, including budgeting, accounting, payroll, utility billing, parking administration, audits, risk management, insurance procurement, general administrative services, and tax increment financing support.
• Coordinate or assist with special projects and studies.
• Plan, organize, supervise, review, and evaluate the work of professional, technical, and office support staff and supervisors.
• Develop and coordinate work teams and review, recommend, and implement improved Finance Department policies and procedures.
• Review cash balances and transfer funds as necessary to cover payroll, accounts payable, and other expenditures.
• Develop financial policies and procedures covering revenue, economic incentives, purchasing, investments, and internal audit controls.
• Analyze department programs and provide recommendations for their administration.
• Prepare written correspondence, reports, procedures, and other materials, and direct the maintenance of accurate records and files.
• Assist with staff selection, training, and professional development; interpret City policies and procedures; and support staff morale, productivity, and discipline.
• Coordinate with other departments on City-wide financial and administrative requirements, problem resolution, and coordinated policies.
• Attend and participate in Boards and Commissions, including Police and Fire Pension boards and Finance Committee meetings; prepare meeting minutes and other assigned Finance Committee materials.
• Use standard office equipment, including a computer, and drive or arrange transportation to attend off-site meetings and visit City locations.
• Interact courteously and cooperatively with the public and staff and promote a harmonious and effective workplace.
• Maintain regular and reliable attendance.
• Serve as Acting Finance Director when the Finance Director is absent.

Benefits

• Medical insurance
• Dental insurance
• Vision insurance
• Life insurance
• City contribution each year of half the cost of the deductible to the employee HSA
• Tuition reimbursement
• Paid time off
• Participation in the Illinois Municipal Retirement Fund (IMRF)

What This Job Offers

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