Staff Accountant - Finance Department

Municipality of Princeton•Princeton, NJ

About The Position

The Municipality of Princeton is seeking a detail-oriented and reliable Staff Accountant to support the Finance Department’s day-to-day financial operations, with an emphasis on banking and cash management, general ledger maintenance, and escrow account administration. The role contributes to the sound fiscal management of local government and also supports budgeting, financial reporting, and audits. The position requires accounting experience and proficiency with accounting or ERP software and Microsoft Office products. A bachelor’s degree in accounting, finance, or a related field is preferred; candidates with equivalent relevant municipal experience in lieu of a degree will also be considered. Candidates must meet the stated screening requirements, satisfy New Jersey residency requirements, and provide proof of U.S. citizenship or immigration status upon hire.

Requirements

Prior accounting experience is required, ideally including general ledger, bank reconciliation, and/or escrow or trust account management.
Proficiency with accounting/ERP software and Microsoft Office products is required.
Strong attention to detail and accuracy.
Excellent organizational and time-management skills.
Ability to handle confidential financial information with discretion.
Strong written and verbal communication skills.
Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a team environment.
Strong project management and time-management skills and experience.
Proactive self-starter with integrity, a strong work ethic, and sound judgment.
Positive attitude and commitment to teamwork in a dynamic, fast-paced environment.
Must satisfy an employer-paid physical examination, drug screen, and criminal background check.
New Jersey residency is required by N.J.S.A. 52:14-7 (L. 2011, Chapter 70).
Proof of U.S. citizenship or immigration status is required upon hire.

Nice To Haves

Bachelor’s degree in accounting, finance, or a related field is preferred.
Equivalent relevant municipal experience may be considered in lieu of a degree.

Responsibilities

Perform daily and monthly bank reconciliations across municipal accounts.
Monitor cash positions and assist with cash flow reporting.
Process and verify wire transfers, ACH transactions, and electronic payments.
Liaise with municipal banking institutions to resolve discrepancies.
Maintain and reconcile general ledger accounts in accordance with GAAP and applicable state and municipal accounting standards.
Prepare and post journal entries, including accruals, adjustments, and reclassifications.
Assist with month-end and year-end closing processes.
Support preparation of financial statements and schedules for internal and external reporting, including audit preparation.
Establish, track, and reconcile developer, planning/zoning, and other municipal escrow accounts.
Monitor escrow balances, process deposits and disbursements, and ensure compliance with applicable regulations and municipal ordinances.
Prepare escrow account statements and respond to inquiries from applicants, developers, and municipal departments.
Coordinate with the Finance Department, Planning/Zoning offices, and outside professionals regarding escrow-related billing and refunds.
Assist with budget preparation, monitoring, and reporting as needed.
Support external audits and respond to auditor requests.
Ensure compliance with N.J. Division of Local Government Services regulations and municipal finance requirements.
Perform other accounting and clerical duties as assigned.