Accounting Administrator I Specialist

About the Role

The Accounting Administrator I, Specialist, will independently perform complex accounting duties requiring a comprehensive understanding of the entire accounting process. This position resides in the Accounting & Purchasing Branch, Accounting Division – Accounting Systems Unit, which handles general accounting processes for state agencies, including payroll, invoice payments, and direct transfer payments. The role involves coordinating month-end and year-end closing procedures for the Accounting Office.

Key responsibilities include working directly with control agencies such as the State Treasurer’s Office, State Controller’s Office, Department of Finance, and California State Auditors, as well as FI$Cal and Cal OES personnel. The incumbent will prepare complex reports for management and may handle assignments impacting the entire accounting operation, with broad discretion in problem-solving.

Responsibilities

• Coordinate implementation of accounting for new programs or functions.
• Review proposals to change accounting procedures.
• Prepare cash analysis reports for management.
• Coordinate completion of year-end reports.
• Prepare complex reports for management.
• Work directly with control agencies (State Treasurer’s Office, State Controller’s Office, Department of Finance, California State Auditors), FI$Cal, and Cal OES personnel.
• Perform duties impacting the entire accounting operation with broad discretion in problem-solving.

Requirements

• Principles and practices of professional governmental accounting, including Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP) as applied in a public-sector environment.
• Governmental accounting standards and financial reporting requirements, including Governmental Accounting Standards Board (GASB) pronouncements applicable to governmental entities.
• Accounting methods and procedures related to general ledger, accounts payable, accounts receivable, cash management, payroll, cost allocation, and financial reporting.
• Internal control principles and audit standards, including separation of duties and safeguarding of public funds.
• Fiscal reporting, reconciliation, and analysis techniques used in the preparation of monthly, quarterly, and year-end close processes and financial statements.
• State Administrative Manual (SAM) policies, procedures, and controls governing accounting and fiscal operations.
• Accounting systems, databases, and spreadsheet applications used for financial analysis, reconciliation, and reporting.
• Applicable federal and State laws, regulations, and reporting requirements affecting governmental accounting operations.

Qualifications

• Experience with Financial Information System for California (FI$Cal).
• Experience with Microsoft Power Query and SQL Server.
• Proven experience leading a team in a deadline-driven environment.
• Ability to meet reporting deadlines with accuracy and consistency.
• Experience with process improvements and internal controls.
• Excellent communication skills.

Working Conditions

• Hybrid telework schedule with potential for additional in-office days based on business needs.
• Designated under the Conflict of Interest Code; completion of Form 700 required within 30 days of appointment.
• May be required to report to work during emergencies outside of normal working hours, including evenings, nights, weekends, and holidays.
• Potential for irregular work hours, alternative work locations, and duties beyond the official position description during emergencies.
• Extensive travel may be required in support of emergency operations, with little advance notice, and relocation to emergency sites may be necessary for weeks to months.

Benefits

• Free parking.
• On-site gym and locker room.
• Electric carport.
• Excellent CalPERS state pension plan.
• 401(k) and 457(b) plans.
• Flexible schedules.
• Generous paid time off.
• Health, dental, and vision insurance for the employee or the employee’s family.
• Investment in career development.
• Located near local eateries, financial institutions, and a Light Rail Station.