Accounting Manager Job at Walnut Valley Water District (CA) in Walnut

Overview

Walnut Valley Water District is accepting applications for the position of Accounting Manager.

The District
At Walnut Valley Water District, we believe in putting people first. We understand the importance of maintaining a healthy work-life balance while striving for excellence in everything we do. Our vision statement, “Shared Values, Shared Results,” reflects our commitment to collaboration, integrity, and success. As a member of our team, you’ll not only be part of a dedicated workforce but also enjoy a comprehensive benefits package designed to support your personal and professional growth.

Position and Responsibilities

The Accounting Manager is responsible for organizing, assigning, evaluating results, developing, and assisting in budget preparation and monitoring, conducting performance appraisals, and recommending personnel actions such as hiring, promotions, discipline, and termination. The role operates under the direction of the Director of Finance. This is the manager level classification in the Finance Department, Accounting Division. Incumbents are responsible for:

• All areas relating to financial reporting, including developing the accounting principles, practices, and procedures to ensure accurate and timely financial statements
• Plans, organizes, and supervises the work of the accounting team to ensure that the work is properly allocated and completed in a timely and accurate manner
• Addresses tight deadlines and a multitude of accounting activities, including general ledger preparation, year-end audit preparation, and support of budget activities
• Perform other related duties as assigned
• Manage the work of employees responsible for accounts payable and receivable and payroll; provide assistance to outside departments to ensure accuracy of account numbers and adequate account balances; review payroll and payroll tax reports; manage and participate in ensuring the smooth operations of the general ledger accounting and payroll computer systems
• Supervise and facilitate a timely and accurate month-end closing process for the general ledger
• Review calculations and examine supporting documentation for accuracy and completeness on monthly journal entries; prepare and maintain control and subsidiary accounting records on all asset and liability accounts, and establish general ledger accounts for new capital-related construction projects
• Obtain and maintain an understanding of the financial reporting and general ledger structure through day-to-day leadership and work with staff to ensure a high-performance work environment that supports achieving the District’s mission, strategic plan, objectives, and values
• Reconcile revenue and expenditure data with the general ledger; ensure accurate and timely reporting of all monthly financial information and year-end close
• Provide support with district annual budget and forecasting activities and assist in the establishment and enforcement of proper accounting methods, policies, principles, and internal control
• Manage the District’s financial accounting and billing systems; plan and organize the annual financial audit process; prepare audit work papers; review the Comprehensive Annual Financial Report and Financial Transaction Report; knowledge of Government Accounting Standards
• Monitor and analyze department work to develop more efficient procedures and use of resources while maintaining a high level of accuracy; establish performance requirements and personal development targets, and provide coaching for performance improvement and development
• Work closely with the Director of Finance and other finance staff on the completion of departmental responsibilities
• Work with other department managers, Legal Counsel, external auditors, and the District Board of Directors
• Work closely with consultants and vendors in the operation and assist with the management of the District’s billing, purchasing, and payroll systems
• Research information and adjust financial and statistical information; maintain and reconcile related subsidiary accounts and review bank reconciliations
• Perform other special projects as directed by the Director of Finance

Typical Physical Activities

• May occasionally travel by automobile in conducting District business
• Sits at a desk for extended periods of time
• Sufficient finger/hand coordination and dexterity to operate and adjust office equipment
• Communicates orally with District management, co-workers, and the public in face-to-face, one-on-one settings
• Works in an office environment and is able to carry, push, pull, reach, and lift supplies weighing up to 15 lbs
• Regularly uses a telephone for communication
• Uses office equipment such as computers, copiers, and FAX machines
• Occasional stooping, twisting, reaching, bending, kneeling, walking, and climbing stairs
• Hearing and vision within normal ranges with or without correction

Employment Standards

Knowledge Of:

• Purposes, methods, practices, and principles of District financial and statistical record keeping work
• Principles and practices embodied in GASB and FASB
• Basic knowledge of laws and statutes controlling payroll functions and maintenance of District financial records and statements
• Audits and auditing procedures
• Management and cost accounting practices
• Computerized management information, billing, purchasing, and fiscal systems
• Principles of work direction, coordination, and training
• District policies, procedures, rules, and regulations
• Supervision, training, and work evaluation

Ability To:

• Supervise, train, and evaluate accounting personnel
• Perform a variety of the most difficult and complex financial record-keeping and fiscal support work
• Provide training and guidance for other accounting staff
• Maintain journals and ledgers
• Make arithmetical calculations quickly and accurately
• Assist with the preparation of financial reports and statements
• Skillfully use computerized financial systems and software
• Issue, receive, and comprehend oral and written communications
• Communicate diplomatically with customers, vendors, and District personnel
• Prepare and organize a variety of information
• Maintain good relations during public contacts
• Establish and maintain cooperative working relationships
• Drive a vehicle safely

Desirable Education and Experience

Any combination of education and experience likely to provide the necessary knowledge and abilities is qualifying. A typical path would include:

Education/Training: Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting required. CPA is desired but not required.

Experience: Minimum 5 years of experience in computerized accounting with exposure to accounts payable, accounts receivable, and payroll tax reporting, and supervisory experience. Experience in local government accounting and audits with some knowledge of cost accounting is highly desirable. Strong verbal and written communication skills required.

Special Requirements

• Ability to pass a pre-employment physical
• Valid California Driver's License - Class "C"; must maintain an acceptable driving record
• Reliable telephone in service at all times
• Reliable personal transportation

Overtime Assignments

The provision of water is a vital service to the community and, as such, requires the availability of District personnel at all times. Consequently, Accounting employees, including the Accounting Manager, will be required to respond to emergency calls, accept periodic overtime assignments, and perform any other duties deemed necessary by the District. Lacking a bona fide excuse satisfactory to the District, a failure to report when called could result in termination.

Fair Labor Standards Act

For the purposes of the Fair Labor Standards Act, the Accounting Manager is considered a Mid-Management "exempt" position.

“AT WILL” EMPLOYMENT

This is an “at will” position without expectation of indefinite employment and may be terminated at any time without cause within the total discretion of the appointing authority.