City of Tumwater
Overview
Tumwater is a vibrant community rooted in history and opportunity. Located at the southern gateway to the Seattle-Tacoma metro area, Tumwater offers small-town charm with a big-picture vision. Surrounded by Puget Sound, prairies, rivers, and evergreen forests, we’re just over an hour from ocean beaches, the Olympic Peninsula, and Mount Rainier. We’re committed to a highly livable, connected, and inclusive future with safe neighborhoods, excellent schools, and strong civic pride. The Opportunity This is a key leadership role at the heart of Tumwater’s financial operations. As the Finance Manager, you’ll shape the City’s financial future, lead a talented team, guide complex projects, and ensure finances are managed with transparency, accuracy, and innovation. In this role, you’ll oversee day-to-day financial activities, from reconciling accounts and preparing reports to managing grants and loans with precision. You’ll be a trusted partner to the Finance Director, helping develop and implement policies that keep the City running efficiently. You’ll work collaboratively across departments, providing expert advice and creative solutions to support our shared mission to serve the community. If you’re a strategic thinker with a passion for public service and the skills to keep a City’s financial heartbeat strong, this is your opportunity to make a meaningful impact. The Finance Manager consists of two leadership positions: Billing, receipting, customer service, project accounting, asset management, B&O tax, violations, treasury, and preparing the Annual Consolidated Financial Report. Payroll, accounts payable, benefit vendor reconciliation, procurement card program, general ledger, investments, debt, and the biennial budget. Important:
The City will begin reviewing applications on January 26, 2026. The position will remain open until filled; however, applicants submitting materials by the review date will receive priority consideration. This is not intended to be a comprehensive listing of all activities, duties, and responsibilities required of the job. Other duties may be assigned and/or performed. The essential functions of this position include but are not limited to: Trains, develops, directs and evaluates Fiscal Services staff to help expedite workflow and improve efficiency and effectiveness of department operations; achieve individual goals; foster teamwork; and ensure employees' growth and accountability for their actions. Assesses and monitors workload; identifies opportunities for improvement and implements changes. Selects, motivates and evaluates personnel; provides or coordinates staff training; works with employees to correct deficiencies; makes recommendations regarding discipline and termination. Oversees the City's financial reporting, including the preparation and production of the Annual Comprehensive Financial Report (ACFR) and State of Washington Budgeting, Accounting and Reporting System (BARS) reports. Manages the investment and cash position of all City funds, maximizing returns while adhering to the City's investment policies. Plans and directs complex and highly visible financial projects, collaborating with internal and external stakeholders and ensuring compliance with regulations and policies. Leads the development and maintenance of the City's utility billing, cash receipting and disbursement systems ensuring accurate and timely billing and collections. Oversees accounting functions, including accounts receivable, payable, payroll and grant accounting, maintaining internal financial controls and compliance with GAAP and GASB standards. Manages the City's business tax and licensing programs and oversees local tax administration including complex tax determinations, compliance efforts and collection activities. Prepares and reviews financial statements, annual budget documents and special financial analyses. Maintains and develops financial policies, procedures and programs including internal controls and audit procedures to ensure the accuracy and completeness of financial reports. Provides technical guidance and training to finance staff on accounting, software use and regulatory compliance. Provides financial support, advice and guidance to all City departments. Leads fiscal studies and rate analyses; may communicate recommendations to the City Council and community. Oversees administration of City fleet business including capital replacement model; parts and fuel inventory control; capital, maintenance and fuel rate setting and billing; training; and other fleet-related assignments. Acts as a custodian of the City's accounting structure and maintains confidentiality of financial information. Manages debt issuance, repayment, and ongoing compliance. Assists in preparing and monitoring the City's annual operating and capital improvement budgets including revenue projections. Punctual, regular and reliable attendance is essential for successful job performance. Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities: Thorough knowledge of BARS and state and federal laws regulating the financial activities of Washington municipalities. Thorough knowledge of GAAP, GASB pronouncements, auditing practices and financial analysis and research techniques. Thorough knowledge of municipal accounting and budgetary principles, practices, operations and procedures. Thorough knowledge of the principles, practices, methodologies and techniques utilized to effectively manage and motivate a diverse workforce. Skill in the use of Microsoft Office products (Word, Outlook and Excel) and applicable department and organization specific software and ability to learn and become proficient in the use of other specialized software as may be required. Skill in the use of databases and financial reporting software. Ability to analyze complex and interrelated financial functions. Ability to coordinate the management of the City\'s investment portfolio to maximize the City\'s financial return within an acceptable level of risk and liquidity. Ability to effectively present information and technical advice to top management and relevant individuals. Ability to manage multiple complex financial assignments and allocate resources effectively. Ability to prepare budgets, analyses, reports and recommendations. Ability to effectively lead, delegate and manage direct reports and their assignments. Ability to identify potential issues, modify processes and resolve conflict as the need arises. Minimum Qualifications: Candidates must meet one of the following combinations of education and experience: High school diploma or GED and ten (10) years of increasingly responsible experience in governmental or municipal accounting, auditing, or financial management, including at least two (2) years in a supervisory or management capacity; Associate degree in accounting, finance, business administration, public administration, or a related field and eight (8) years of relevant experience as described above, including two (2) years in a supervisory or management capacity; Bachelor’s degree in accounting, finance, business administration, public administration, or a related field and six (6) years of relevant experience as described above, including two (2) years in a supervisory or management capacity; Any equivalent combination of education, experience, certification, and training that demonstrates comprehensive knowledge of municipal financial operations and the responsibilities of the position. Preferred Qualifications: Certified Public Accountant (CPA), Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE), Certified Public Finance Officer (CPFO), or a master’s degree in a relevant field; Ten (10) or more years of professional experience in governmental accounting, with three (3) or more years in a supervisory or management role; Strong proficiency in Microsoft Excel and experience with Tyler Munis/eERP or comparable financial systems. Training/Licenses/Certifications:
Possession of a valid Washington State Driver’s License and an insurable driving record may be required. Must pass a background investigation. Must be bondable. Please submit a letter of interest and current resume for consideration Contacts : The Finance Manager has daily contact with department staff and other City staff for the purpose of information sharing and problem resolution. May make presentations of financial analysis or issues before the City Management Team, the City Council, and public groups. Will have contacts for the purpose of responding to complaints or service-related questions, sharing information, gaining compliance, enforcement, and resolving both technical and interpersonal issues. Will have contact with external auditors. Effective communication skills are necessary for success in this position. Supervision:
As a manager in charge of daily department financial operations, the Finance Manager directly supervises assigned clerical, technical and professional accounting staff as determined by the Finance Director. Accountability:
The Finance Manager is accountable to the Finance Director for the successful daily operations of the department and assigned programs and functions. In the absence of the Director, the incumbent may serve in an acting capacity. Working Conditions:
Positions in this class require regular attendance and are located in an office setting. Normal working conditions include repeated keyboard operations, long periods of sitting at a defined workstation, occasional lifting of objects up to 20 lbs., mobility within a building and exposure to numerous, distractions, noises and interruptions. Physical requirements:
Work is often performed in an office setting. Specific physical requirements and typical working conditions for this position are on file in the Administrative Services Department. The City of Tumwater is an Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE) and does not discriminate in employment on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy and gender identity), national origin, political affiliation, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, genetic information, age, membership in an employee organization, retaliation, parental status, military service, or other non-merit factor. The City of Tumwater is committed to wellness, safety, the environment and racial equity.
#J-18808-Ljbffr
Tumwater is a vibrant community rooted in history and opportunity. Located at the southern gateway to the Seattle-Tacoma metro area, Tumwater offers small-town charm with a big-picture vision. Surrounded by Puget Sound, prairies, rivers, and evergreen forests, we’re just over an hour from ocean beaches, the Olympic Peninsula, and Mount Rainier. We’re committed to a highly livable, connected, and inclusive future with safe neighborhoods, excellent schools, and strong civic pride. The Opportunity This is a key leadership role at the heart of Tumwater’s financial operations. As the Finance Manager, you’ll shape the City’s financial future, lead a talented team, guide complex projects, and ensure finances are managed with transparency, accuracy, and innovation. In this role, you’ll oversee day-to-day financial activities, from reconciling accounts and preparing reports to managing grants and loans with precision. You’ll be a trusted partner to the Finance Director, helping develop and implement policies that keep the City running efficiently. You’ll work collaboratively across departments, providing expert advice and creative solutions to support our shared mission to serve the community. If you’re a strategic thinker with a passion for public service and the skills to keep a City’s financial heartbeat strong, this is your opportunity to make a meaningful impact. The Finance Manager consists of two leadership positions: Billing, receipting, customer service, project accounting, asset management, B&O tax, violations, treasury, and preparing the Annual Consolidated Financial Report. Payroll, accounts payable, benefit vendor reconciliation, procurement card program, general ledger, investments, debt, and the biennial budget. Important:
The City will begin reviewing applications on January 26, 2026. The position will remain open until filled; however, applicants submitting materials by the review date will receive priority consideration. This is not intended to be a comprehensive listing of all activities, duties, and responsibilities required of the job. Other duties may be assigned and/or performed. The essential functions of this position include but are not limited to: Trains, develops, directs and evaluates Fiscal Services staff to help expedite workflow and improve efficiency and effectiveness of department operations; achieve individual goals; foster teamwork; and ensure employees' growth and accountability for their actions. Assesses and monitors workload; identifies opportunities for improvement and implements changes. Selects, motivates and evaluates personnel; provides or coordinates staff training; works with employees to correct deficiencies; makes recommendations regarding discipline and termination. Oversees the City's financial reporting, including the preparation and production of the Annual Comprehensive Financial Report (ACFR) and State of Washington Budgeting, Accounting and Reporting System (BARS) reports. Manages the investment and cash position of all City funds, maximizing returns while adhering to the City's investment policies. Plans and directs complex and highly visible financial projects, collaborating with internal and external stakeholders and ensuring compliance with regulations and policies. Leads the development and maintenance of the City's utility billing, cash receipting and disbursement systems ensuring accurate and timely billing and collections. Oversees accounting functions, including accounts receivable, payable, payroll and grant accounting, maintaining internal financial controls and compliance with GAAP and GASB standards. Manages the City's business tax and licensing programs and oversees local tax administration including complex tax determinations, compliance efforts and collection activities. Prepares and reviews financial statements, annual budget documents and special financial analyses. Maintains and develops financial policies, procedures and programs including internal controls and audit procedures to ensure the accuracy and completeness of financial reports. Provides technical guidance and training to finance staff on accounting, software use and regulatory compliance. Provides financial support, advice and guidance to all City departments. Leads fiscal studies and rate analyses; may communicate recommendations to the City Council and community. Oversees administration of City fleet business including capital replacement model; parts and fuel inventory control; capital, maintenance and fuel rate setting and billing; training; and other fleet-related assignments. Acts as a custodian of the City's accounting structure and maintains confidentiality of financial information. Manages debt issuance, repayment, and ongoing compliance. Assists in preparing and monitoring the City's annual operating and capital improvement budgets including revenue projections. Punctual, regular and reliable attendance is essential for successful job performance. Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities: Thorough knowledge of BARS and state and federal laws regulating the financial activities of Washington municipalities. Thorough knowledge of GAAP, GASB pronouncements, auditing practices and financial analysis and research techniques. Thorough knowledge of municipal accounting and budgetary principles, practices, operations and procedures. Thorough knowledge of the principles, practices, methodologies and techniques utilized to effectively manage and motivate a diverse workforce. Skill in the use of Microsoft Office products (Word, Outlook and Excel) and applicable department and organization specific software and ability to learn and become proficient in the use of other specialized software as may be required. Skill in the use of databases and financial reporting software. Ability to analyze complex and interrelated financial functions. Ability to coordinate the management of the City\'s investment portfolio to maximize the City\'s financial return within an acceptable level of risk and liquidity. Ability to effectively present information and technical advice to top management and relevant individuals. Ability to manage multiple complex financial assignments and allocate resources effectively. Ability to prepare budgets, analyses, reports and recommendations. Ability to effectively lead, delegate and manage direct reports and their assignments. Ability to identify potential issues, modify processes and resolve conflict as the need arises. Minimum Qualifications: Candidates must meet one of the following combinations of education and experience: High school diploma or GED and ten (10) years of increasingly responsible experience in governmental or municipal accounting, auditing, or financial management, including at least two (2) years in a supervisory or management capacity; Associate degree in accounting, finance, business administration, public administration, or a related field and eight (8) years of relevant experience as described above, including two (2) years in a supervisory or management capacity; Bachelor’s degree in accounting, finance, business administration, public administration, or a related field and six (6) years of relevant experience as described above, including two (2) years in a supervisory or management capacity; Any equivalent combination of education, experience, certification, and training that demonstrates comprehensive knowledge of municipal financial operations and the responsibilities of the position. Preferred Qualifications: Certified Public Accountant (CPA), Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE), Certified Public Finance Officer (CPFO), or a master’s degree in a relevant field; Ten (10) or more years of professional experience in governmental accounting, with three (3) or more years in a supervisory or management role; Strong proficiency in Microsoft Excel and experience with Tyler Munis/eERP or comparable financial systems. Training/Licenses/Certifications:
Possession of a valid Washington State Driver’s License and an insurable driving record may be required. Must pass a background investigation. Must be bondable. Please submit a letter of interest and current resume for consideration Contacts : The Finance Manager has daily contact with department staff and other City staff for the purpose of information sharing and problem resolution. May make presentations of financial analysis or issues before the City Management Team, the City Council, and public groups. Will have contacts for the purpose of responding to complaints or service-related questions, sharing information, gaining compliance, enforcement, and resolving both technical and interpersonal issues. Will have contact with external auditors. Effective communication skills are necessary for success in this position. Supervision:
As a manager in charge of daily department financial operations, the Finance Manager directly supervises assigned clerical, technical and professional accounting staff as determined by the Finance Director. Accountability:
The Finance Manager is accountable to the Finance Director for the successful daily operations of the department and assigned programs and functions. In the absence of the Director, the incumbent may serve in an acting capacity. Working Conditions:
Positions in this class require regular attendance and are located in an office setting. Normal working conditions include repeated keyboard operations, long periods of sitting at a defined workstation, occasional lifting of objects up to 20 lbs., mobility within a building and exposure to numerous, distractions, noises and interruptions. Physical requirements:
Work is often performed in an office setting. Specific physical requirements and typical working conditions for this position are on file in the Administrative Services Department. The City of Tumwater is an Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE) and does not discriminate in employment on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy and gender identity), national origin, political affiliation, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, genetic information, age, membership in an employee organization, retaliation, parental status, military service, or other non-merit factor. The City of Tumwater is committed to wellness, safety, the environment and racial equity.
#J-18808-Ljbffr