The City of La Vergne
Accountant Job at The City of La Vergne in La Vergne
The City of La Vergne, La Vergne, TN, US, 37089
Position Title:
Accountant
Department:
Finance
FLSA Status:
Non-Exempt / Hourly
Salary:
Grade:
I
Starting:
$27.62
Supervision:
Director of Finance
Last Reviewed:
7/15/25
JOB SUMMARY
Under the general supervision of the Finance Director, the Accountant performs complex professional-level governmental accounting duties consistent with GASB standards, Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP), and the State of Tennessee's Municipal Chart of Accounts. Responsibilities include preparing financial statements, reconciling general ledger accounts, assisting with budgeting processes, providing audit support, and ensuring compliance with applicable regulations and internal controls. This position utilizes local government software for financial operations and reporting.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
The duties listed below reflect typical tasks; additional duties may be assigned as needed.
Education and Experience:
PHYSICAL DEMANDS
This position involves predominantly sedentary office work requiring occasional exertion of up to 25 pounds. Daily activities involve frequent sitting, standing, talking, hearing, and using hands for computer and office equipment operation. Vision requirements include close vision, distance vision, depth perception, color vision, and the ability to adjust focus.
WORK ENVIRONMENT
Office-Based Financial Operations:
The Accountant primarily works in an office environment, utilizing Local Government financial software and standard office technology to manage, process, and analyze financial transactions. This role requires frequent computer usage, document review, and data entry in a structured office setting.
Analytical and Detail-Oriented Tasks:
This role involves detailed analysis of financial data, preparation and reconciliation of financial records, and ensuring accuracy in reporting. Tasks require sustained concentration, accuracy, and attention to detail, particularly during month-end closings, annual audits, and budget preparation periods.
Teamwork and Cross-Departmental Coordination:
The Accountant collaborates regularly with departmental teams, city management, external auditors, and regulatory agencies. Effective communication, professionalism, and cooperation are essential to ensuring smooth fiscal operations and regulatory compliance.
Compliance and Continuous Learning:
Continuous education and training on governmental accounting principles, GASB standards, and regulatory changes are key components of the Accountant's work environment. The position demands staying current with financial best practices, legal requirements, and software capabilities.
Deadline-Driven and High-Accuracy Expectations:
The Accountant role is deadline-sensitive, particularly during fiscal year-end, audit preparation, and budget cycles. Ability to handle multiple priorities simultaneously and perform accurately under pressure is critical.
Public Service Orientation:
While primarily internal facing, the Accountant may occasionally participate in public meetings, provide information to city residents, and support transparency through clear and accurate financial communication. These interactions help foster public trust in the city's fiscal responsibility.
Regular Work Schedule:
This position is not remote. The Accountant works standard office hours, typically Monday-Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., with occasional extended hours required during peak financial periods, audits, or budgeting processes.
Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.
THE CITY OF LA VERGNE IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER AND DOES NOT DISCRIMINATE ON THE BASIS OF RACE, SEX, COLOR, RELIGION, NATIONAL ORIGIN, AGE, DISABILITY, OR VETERAN STATUS IN EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES.
Accountant
Department:
Finance
FLSA Status:
Non-Exempt / Hourly
Salary:
Grade:
I
Starting:
$27.62
Supervision:
Director of Finance
Last Reviewed:
7/15/25
JOB SUMMARY
Under the general supervision of the Finance Director, the Accountant performs complex professional-level governmental accounting duties consistent with GASB standards, Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP), and the State of Tennessee's Municipal Chart of Accounts. Responsibilities include preparing financial statements, reconciling general ledger accounts, assisting with budgeting processes, providing audit support, and ensuring compliance with applicable regulations and internal controls. This position utilizes local government software for financial operations and reporting.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
The duties listed below reflect typical tasks; additional duties may be assigned as needed.
- Maintains accurate general ledger accounts by preparing journal entries, conducting monthly reconciliations, and promptly correcting discrepancies.
- Prepares monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements and reports, complying with GASB standards and GAAP guidelines.
- Assists with the preparation of annual budget documents, forecasts, and periodic financial analyses.
- Provides detailed assistance during annual audit processes, including preparation of schedules, gathering supporting documentation, and responding to auditor inquiries.
- Ensures accurate classification and reporting of revenues, expenditures, and interfund transfers within the Local Government accounting system.
- Reviews bank reconciliations, verify financial data accuracy, and addresses inconsistencies promptly.
- Assists with tracking, reconciliation, and financial reporting of state and federal grants.
- Prepares necessary filings and tax-related documents, including annual IRS 1099 forms.
- Oversees fixed asset tracking, depreciation schedules, and other capital asset accounting activities in accordance with GASB standards.
- Ensures internal control compliance and financial policy adherence through regular review and reporting.
- Provides exceptional customer service and technical assistance to departments and external stakeholders.
- Assists in special projects and departmental initiatives as directed by the Finance Director.
Education and Experience:
- Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or related field required.
- Minimum of two (2) years of progressively responsible accounting experience, preferably in governmental or fund accounting.
- Equivalent combinations of education and experience may be considered.
- Valid Tennessee driver's license or ability to obtain within a reasonable timeframe.
- Certified Municipal Finance Officer (CMFO) preferred but not required. Two step (6%) increase in compensation with CMFO completion.
- Thorough understanding of governmental accounting standards (GASB), GAAP, fund accounting practices, and municipal financial regulations.
- Proficiency in Local Government accounting software and Microsoft Office Suite, especially Excel.
- Strong analytical skills with the ability to identify discrepancies, reconcile complex accounts, and provide accurate financial reporting.
- Ability to interpret financial data, prepare financial reports, and communicate information clearly to diverse stakeholders.
- Excellent organizational skills, attention to detail, and ability to manage multiple tasks within established deadlines.
- Strong verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively across departments and with external auditors.
- Commitment to ethical standards, confidentiality, and professionalism in handling sensitive financial information.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS
This position involves predominantly sedentary office work requiring occasional exertion of up to 25 pounds. Daily activities involve frequent sitting, standing, talking, hearing, and using hands for computer and office equipment operation. Vision requirements include close vision, distance vision, depth perception, color vision, and the ability to adjust focus.
WORK ENVIRONMENT
Office-Based Financial Operations:
The Accountant primarily works in an office environment, utilizing Local Government financial software and standard office technology to manage, process, and analyze financial transactions. This role requires frequent computer usage, document review, and data entry in a structured office setting.
Analytical and Detail-Oriented Tasks:
This role involves detailed analysis of financial data, preparation and reconciliation of financial records, and ensuring accuracy in reporting. Tasks require sustained concentration, accuracy, and attention to detail, particularly during month-end closings, annual audits, and budget preparation periods.
Teamwork and Cross-Departmental Coordination:
The Accountant collaborates regularly with departmental teams, city management, external auditors, and regulatory agencies. Effective communication, professionalism, and cooperation are essential to ensuring smooth fiscal operations and regulatory compliance.
Compliance and Continuous Learning:
Continuous education and training on governmental accounting principles, GASB standards, and regulatory changes are key components of the Accountant's work environment. The position demands staying current with financial best practices, legal requirements, and software capabilities.
Deadline-Driven and High-Accuracy Expectations:
The Accountant role is deadline-sensitive, particularly during fiscal year-end, audit preparation, and budget cycles. Ability to handle multiple priorities simultaneously and perform accurately under pressure is critical.
Public Service Orientation:
While primarily internal facing, the Accountant may occasionally participate in public meetings, provide information to city residents, and support transparency through clear and accurate financial communication. These interactions help foster public trust in the city's fiscal responsibility.
Regular Work Schedule:
This position is not remote. The Accountant works standard office hours, typically Monday-Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., with occasional extended hours required during peak financial periods, audits, or budgeting processes.
Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.
THE CITY OF LA VERGNE IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER AND DOES NOT DISCRIMINATE ON THE BASIS OF RACE, SEX, COLOR, RELIGION, NATIONAL ORIGIN, AGE, DISABILITY, OR VETERAN STATUS IN EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES.