Staff Accountant

State of Oregon•Salem, OR

5d•$4,519 - $6,904•Hybrid

About The Position

We are seeking a Staff Accountant (Accountant 1) to join our Office of Finance Administration (OFA) team at the Oregon Department of Education. This is a permanent position represented by the Service Employees International Union (SEIU). This position follows a hybrid work model. Onsite presence will be required when business or operational needs are best supported in person, such as collaboration, training, or work that requires access to onsite resources. Employees approved to work remotely must have a reliable and secure internet connection and maintain a professional work environment that supports productivity. While working remotely, employees are expected to maintain the same level of performance, responsiveness, communication, and availability as they would in the office. Within the CFO Accounting Unit, you will work independently to improve unit processes; use accounting theory to interpret laws, rules, regulations, policies and procedures; and compile and analyze data for federal and state compliance reports. This role offers a unique opportunity to join a supportive and experienced team that values collaboration, continuous learning, and process improvement. You can enjoy a hybrid work environment while contributing to meaningful financial operations that support education programs across the state. You will have the opportunity to independently analyze data and improve processes by solving problems and ensuring accurate reporting.

Requirements

Possession of a Certified Public Accountant or Certified Government Financial Manager certificate; OR A bachelor’s degree in accounting; OR Successful completion of the State of Oregon Accounting Career Mobility Program or equivalent accounting certificate program from an accredited college or university; OR 32 quarter (21 semester) credit hours in Accounting from an accredited institution AND two years of technical, para-professional accounting experience to include: a) classifying, analyzing, and reconciling financial data and records; b) designing, recommending, and installing modifications of accounting methods, procedures, forms, and records; c) preparing financial statements and reports; d) analyzing and interpreting laws, regulations, codes, and ordinances to ensure the legality of financial transactions; and e) analyzing, interpreting, and making recommendations related to accounting transactions, accounts and account relationships resulting in accounting entries.

Nice To Haves

Demonstrated experience analyzing, reviewing, and verifying data to identify discrepancies and ensure accuracy in reporting, using query and reporting tools.
Demonstrated experience creating or reviewing job aids, procedures, templates, or process guides.
Demonstrated experience interpreting and applying accounting laws, rules, policies, and procedures to ensure compliance.
Demonstrated proficiency using Microsoft Excel at an intermediate level or higher.
Demonstrated ability to communicate complex or technical information clearly and effectively to a variety of stakeholders, both verbally and in writing (e.g. reports, summaries, and training).
Demonstrated ability to independently manage workload, prioritize competing deadlines, and complete tasks accurately and on time, as evidenced by examples of meeting multiple deliverables or managing concurrent responsibilities.

Responsibilities

Independently reviews accounting processes and uses accounting principles to understand policies and regulations.
Identifies strengths and areas for improvement, recommends process changes, updates procedures, and provides training and guidance to staff.
Reviews and analyzes financial data to prepare and submit accurate and timely federal, state, and internal reports.
Responds to data requests and completes ad hoc reporting as needed to support compliance requirements.
Reconciles accounts and resolves discrepancies within grant and accounting systems.
Prepares adjusting entries and reviews transaction corrections for accuracy, appropriate justification, and proper authorization.
Performs position duties in a manner which promotes customer service across the agency and collaborates with team members to ensure work is performed accurately, completely, and timely.