Assistant Finance Director

City of Brawley•Brawley, CA

22h

About The Position

Under the general direction of the Finance Director, the Assistant Finance Director oversees and coordinates the City’s financial operations, including accounting, budgeting, disbursements, utility billing, procurement, and reporting. The position implements efficient financial policies and practices, promotes collaboration within the Finance Department, and provides solutions-oriented leadership. It requires effective written and verbal communication, delegation, and commitment to the City’s financial objectives. The Assistant Finance Director acts as Department Head when the Finance Director is absent and performs related work as assigned. The role leads financial operations and staff; prepares and presents complex financial reports, including the annual budget, Annual Comprehensive Financial Report (ACFR), and grant reports; and communicates financial information to City Council, department heads, the public, and other stakeholders. The position oversees improvements to financial systems, internal controls, and processes; coordinates budget preparation and administration; ensures required filings and regulatory compliance; facilitates external audits; and manages procurement activities. It also represents the Finance Department in cross-departmental initiatives, responds to citizen requests and complaints, and may serve as Finance Director when designated. A typical qualification is five years of progressively responsible experience in governmental accounting, financial services, budget development and management, or auditing, including two years in a managerial capacity. A bachelor’s degree or equivalent in accounting, business or public administration, or a closely related field is required. A relevant master’s degree is preferred and may substitute for two years of experience. A valid California Driver’s License is also required. The work environment is usually quiet, with the physical requirements described in the posting. As a City of Brawley employee, the incumbent is a designated disaster service worker and must participate in assigned disaster service activities.

Requirements

Five years of progressively responsible experience in governmental accounting, financial services, budget development and management, or auditing, including two years in a managerial capacity.
Bachelor’s degree or equivalent from an accredited college or university, with major coursework in accounting, business or public administration, or a closely related field.
Valid California Driver’s License.
Knowledge of governmental financial services, accounting, auditing, budgeting, governmental GAAP, GASB standards, governmental financial statements and ACFRs, managerial accounting, ERP systems, grant accounting, and conflict resolution.
Ability to communicate clearly in writing and verbally; analyze complex financial issues and transactions; develop practical solutions; delegate effectively; build productive working relationships; and plan, organize, and oversee a multidisciplinary financial team.

Nice To Haves

A master’s degree in accounting, public administration, business administration, or a related field; it may substitute for two years of experience.

Responsibilities

Lead and manage the City’s financial operations, including payroll, budgeting, disbursements, procurement, utility billing, accounts receivable, and reporting, ensuring compliance with applicable regulations.
Provide strategic direction to team members across financial service areas, promoting accountability, efficiency, and collaboration.
Prepare, analyze, and present complex financial reports, including the annual budget, ACFR, and grant reports.
Communicate financial information clearly to stakeholders, including City Council, department heads, and the public.
Oversee the development and implementation of solutions to improve financial systems, internal controls, and operational processes.
Supervise and mentor staff, fostering professional growth and high performance.
Assist with coordinating, preparing, and administering the City’s annual budget in alignment with organizational goals.
Ensure timely and accurate filings with local, state, and federal agencies.
Facilitate external financial audits and ensure transparency and accuracy in financial reporting.
Manage procurement activities to support cost efficiency and compliance with City policies.
Represent the Finance Department in cross-departmental initiatives and special projects.
Ensure compliance with relevant state and federal regulations, the Brawley Municipal Code, and City administrative procedures and policies.
Respond to citizen complaints and requests for information.
Act as Finance Director during absences and when otherwise designated.
Perform related assignments as necessary.