Accounting Specialist - Utility Billing

About the Role

Performs specialized journey-level accounting and customer service work in support of the City's utility billing program. Maintains and processes utility accounts, billing records, payments, adjustments, and related financial transactions while ensuring accurate billing, compliance with established policies and procedures, and responsive service to utility customers.

Responsibilities

• Processes the daily functions of utility billing for the City’s water, sewer, and stormwater.
• Processes meter reads and utility bills accurately and timely; analyzes and reconciles bills, payments, and other transactions.
• Opens new utility accounts, maintains current accounts, and processes disconnections.
• Generates, processes, and reviews past due, red tags, and shut-off notices.
• Demonstrates a high degree of knowledge of the utility billing software and billing process; researches and resolves utility billing issues.
• Assists customers with utility account issues; analyzes water consumption; requests meter re-reads and meter checks.
• Responds to inquiries regarding billing, fees, delinquencies, disconnections, re-reads, and general procedural information.
• Coordinates with meter reader to maintain status of account activities and compliance issues.
• Reads, interprets, applies, and explains codes, rules, regulations, policies, and procedures.
• Provides assistance to the public in a pleasant and courteous manner; prints reports and reconciles payments.
• Processes refunds or adjustments as needed.
• Answers phone and takes messages for the Department; issues forms to the public; serves as backup to phones.
• Performs other tasks as assigned, including assisting with various projects assigned by the Business Services Manager, Accounting Manager, and Finance Director.

Requirements

Applicants should demonstrate the following knowledge and abilities:

• Knowledge of applicable federal, state, and local laws, rules, codes, and regulations related to assigned activities.
• Knowledge of municipal administration, organization, codes, and terminology.
• Knowledge of basic principles and procedures of utility billing and collections, accounting, bookkeeping, and statistical reporting.
• Knowledge of principles and practices of record keeping and document control.
• Knowledge of City operations, policies, and objectives.
• Knowledge of general office practices and procedures.
• Ability to learn and develop proficiency in the operation of the city's computer network system and financial software.
• Ability to learn new procedures, prioritize work, and meet deadlines.
• Ability to perform mathematical computations with speed and accuracy using a 10-key adding machine or calculator by touch.
• Ability to maintain detailed, accurate records and to print legibly.
• Ability to greet and deal with the public in a courteous and pleasant manner.
• Ability to understand and carry out oral and written instructions and to accurately apply established guidelines to varied situations.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with employees in all departments, co-workers, and the public.
• Ability to provide quality services in a cost-effective manner and to recommend improved methods of performing the work.
• Ability to physically perform the essential functions of the job.

Qualifications

Minimum qualifications include:

• High school diploma or GED.
• Two years of progressively responsible experience in an office setting; preferably with accounts payable, accounts receivable, payroll, or utility and other billing experience.
• Substitution of course work or training in bookkeeping or municipal accounting for up to six months of the above experience is acceptable.

Tools and Equipment Used

• Personal computer, including computer network system, Asset Management software, and financial software.
• 10-key calculator.
• Telephone.
• Copy machine.
• Scanner.
• Postage machine.
• Bill stuffer.

Work Environment

Work is performed primarily in an office environment while sitting at a desk or computer terminal or while standing at a counter for extended periods of time. Physical exertion may be required to lift office supplies.

Benefits

• City-paid benefits include three insurance plans to choose from, with options as low as $0 for spouse and all dependents. Plans include deductibles as low as $200; high deductible plan includes employer-sponsored contribution to a Health Savings Account.
• Vision and dental insurance with no cost-sharing for employee and all dependents.
• $15,000 Basic Life & Accidental Death & Dismemberment insurance.
• Short-term disability insurance.
• WA Department of Retirement - PERS2 or PERS3 plans.
• Employee Assistance Program.
• Elective benefits include WA Department of Retirement - Deferred Compensation Program, additional life and spouse life insurance, and discounts on Life Flight Membership.