Senior Accountant

City of Gig Harbor•Gig Harbor, WA

2d•$105,696 - $132,217

About The Position

The City is seeking an experienced and detail-oriented Senior Accountant with strong expertise in governmental financial reporting to join our Finance team. This key leadership position plays a critical role in ensuring the accuracy, integrity, and transparency of the City’s financial records and reports. The ideal candidate will bring substantial experience preparing complex monthly, quarterly, and annual financial reports, supporting audits, and ensuring compliance with GAAP and Washington State BARS requirements. In addition to advanced technical accounting skills, we are looking for a collaborative professional who can provide daily oversight of finance operations, guide staff, and serve as a trusted resource to leadership, departments, and external partners. POSITION OVERVIEW The senior accountant coordinates and performs a variety of complex accounting, administrative, reporting, and finance functions in maintaining the fiscal records and systems of the city. The position provides daily oversight for activities of the finance department, including the city’s accounting and financial reporting systems, accounts payable and receivable, cash management and investments, and customer service. The senior accountant establishes and maintains effective working relationships with the mayor, city council, department heads, finance department staff, peers, vendors, and the general public.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in business, accounting, or related field.
Five (5) years of progressively responsible professional accounting work in a municipal environment.
Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite.
GAAP and practices of public finance, accounting, auditing and Washington State BARS accounting system.
Computers, computerized accounting systems, and spreadsheets
Communicate effectively with other employees and the public, individually and in groups, verbally in-person and by phone, and in writing.
Perform basic mathematical calculations including addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division.
Analyze and draw actionable conclusions from financial information.
Apply judgment and discretion in resolving problems and interpreting policies.
Manage assigned responsibilities with competing demands, shifting priorities, and strict deadlines.
Understand, interpret, and apply legal and financial documents, rules, and regulations.
Work independently from general instructions and broad work expectations.
A valid Washington State driver’s license (or ability to obtain one within 30 days of hire).
A history of and ability to maintain safe and responsible driving that meets the city’s motor vehicle record minimum driving requirements.
Ability to pass position relevant pre-employment screening.

Nice To Haves

Certified Public Accountant (CPA) license or Certified Government Financial Manager designation preferred.

Responsibilities

Assists the finance director with evaluating and monitoring department workflow and allocates work assignments to staff.
Leads the work of the finance technicians; recommends training and development; and offers technical and procedural assistance as required.
Assists the finance director with preparation of the city’s biennial budget and financial report, ensuring accurate representation of financial information and compliance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP) for governmental agencies, as well as other federal, state, and local reporting requirements.
Consults with and assists other city departments regarding financial data interpretation, internal control systems and issues regarding interface with the city’s accounting system.
In conjunction with the finance director, serves as city liaison to the State Auditor’s office; responsible for coordinating, facilitating, planning, and providing information for the annual state audit.
Prepares a variety of complex financial reports including monthly, quarterly, and annual finance reports.
Monitors accounting and control systems of department; reviews and implements improvements to system and controls.
Assists and acts on behalf of the finance director as required.
Serves as the lead for finance technicians and may review results of their work.
May support in leading part-time, temporary, or intern personnel within the division.
Maintains punctual and reliable attendance.