Accountant III - Government Accounting Washington District Perm Career $ 115K

Title:                                  Accountant III  - Government Accounting      Washington  District    Perm Career $ 115K

Company:                         Leading public sector organization

Salary:                               Upto $ 115k base + bonus + benefits

Based:                               Hybrid working based in City of Ellensburg

Type:                                  Full time permanent position

Job Description:

We are recruiting on behalf of a leading public sector organization seeking a Senior Accountant to join its Finance Department. This is an excellent opportunity for a highly motivated financial professional to take on a leadership role in managing accounting operations, compliance, financial reporting, and audits.

This position offers a dynamic environment where you will provide financial oversight across various city operations while mentoring accounting staff. If you are a detail-oriented professional with a passion for public finance and a strong background in accounting, we encourage you to apply.

Key Responsibilities:

·       Financial Reporting & Analysis

o   Prepare and oversee monthly and annual financial statements, ensuring accuracy and compliance with GASB and BARS.

o   Conduct financial analysis to support decision-making and provide recommendations based on data insights.

o   Manage the debt service fund budgets and ensure compliance with bond revenue and expenditure guidelines.

·       Audit & Compliance

o   Act as the primary liaison with auditors and oversee the annual financial audit.

o   Serve as the organization’s Audit Officer, ensuring adherence to financial policies, internal controls, and state/federal regulations.

o   Implement and enforce fiscal controls and procedures across all departments.

·       Accounting & Financial Management

o   Supervise all accounts payable, receivable, payroll, journal entries, and other accounting functions.

o   Monitor city projects using project accounting methods and ensure proper documentation of grant expenditures.

o   Oversee all disbursements, bank reconciliations, and cash flow management.

o   Maintain compliance with grant funding requirements and prepare financial reports for grant applications.

·       Leadership & Team Development

o   Provide guidance and mentorship to accounting team members, including Accounting Specialists and Accountant II staff.

o   Assist in policy development, process improvements, and financial best practices implementation.

o   Provide training on accounting software systems and coordinate with IT teams/vendors to troubleshoot issues.

·       Strategic Planning & Operations

o   Collaborate with leadership on budget preparation and capital improvement plans.

o   Develop and update financial policies and procedures, ensuring they align with regulatory changes.

o   Lead fixed asset inventory tracking, including depreciation schedules and year-end reconciliations.

Benefits Package:

·       Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance.

·       Washington State Public Employees Retirement System (PERS) participation.

·       Paid Time Off (PTO) + Exempt Leave + Paid Holidays.

·       Professional development, training opportunities, and career growth pathways.

If this role is of interest, attach a copy of your CV for review.

Requirements

Required Qualifications:

·       Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field.

·       5+ years of experience in public sector accounting, financial reporting, or municipal finance.

·       3+ years of supervisory experience, managing accounting teams.

·       Strong knowledge of GASB and BARS reporting standards.

·       Proficiency in financial software systems and ERP platforms.

·       Excellent analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills.

Preferred Qualifications:

·       CPA, CGFM, or CPFO certification (or willingness to obtain).

·       Prior experience in municipal finance or government accounting.

·       Familiarity with grant management and intergovernmental funding.

·       Bilingual (English/Spanish) is a plus.

Additional Requirements:

·       Must possess a valid driver’s license (or obtain one before hire).

·       Ability to pass a credit and background check (must be bondable).

·       Must obtain First Aid/CPR/AED certification within six months of hire.