Utility Accounting Analyst

About the role

The City of Fort Myers seeks an experienced accountant to join the Utility Accounting Division. This position is responsible for providing financial and operational support to the division.

Responsibilities

• Develop and recommend office procedures, practices, and policies.
• Prepare and analyze fiscal and performance reports, including accounting reports, billing system audits, and period-end reports.
• Forecast operational needs and future requirements.
• Research and prepare responses to requests for information as needed.
• Investigate and research escalated customer service problems and complaints.
• Develop and maintain records for sub-metering and monitor compliance.
• Develop and maintain a tracking system for surety bonds and letters of credit posted by commercial customers in lieu of cash deposits; handle renewals and updates when required.
• Prepare preliminary operating budget for management's approval and monitor budget.
• Prepare revenue projections and forecasts for use by management, the City's budget office, and the City's rate consultant.
• Review applicable ordinances and resolutions to ensure miscellaneous fees and charges are adequate to cover costs; ensure ongoing compliance with statutory requirements; and update policies and procedures as conditions change.
• Develop performance measurements and benchmarks to evaluate the Division's performance.
• Handle special projects and assignments requiring extensive research, analysis, and collaboration to resolve problems and improve operating efficiency.
• Cook up with City's MIS staff updates and enhancements to the Division's web page.
• Monitor meter-reading contract performance and initiate and manage contract renewals.

Requirements

• Minimum of a Bachelor's degree (B.A.) from four-year College or university with a degree in related field AND three (3) years of experience in utility operation or related work; OR equivalent Accountant experience and/or training that provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities.

Qualifications

Proficient in the use of word processing, spreadsheet, database, and accounting software.

Knowledge of water, sewer, and trash operations.

Knowledge of customer billing and cash collection operations.

Knowledge of basic fiscal management policies and principles.

Strong problem-solving skills and ability to work independently.

Ability to speak clearly and persuasively in positive or negative situations.

Ability to interpret ordinances, statutes, regulations, and legal documents.

Ability to communicate effectively in oral and written form.

Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships.

Ability to operate necessary equipment, including personal computer, calculator, printer, copier, facsimile, and other standard office equipment.

Skills

• Proficient in the use of word processing, spreadsheet, database, and accounting software.
• Knowledge of water, sewer, and trash operations.
• Knowledge of customer billing and cash collection operations.
• Knowledge of basic fiscal management policies and principles.
• Strong problem-solving skills and ability to work independently.
• Ability to speak clearly and persuasively in positive or negative situations.
• Ability to interpret ordinances, statutes, regulations, and legal documents.
• Ability to communicate effectively in oral and written form.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships.
• Ability to operate necessary equipment, including personal computer, calculator, printer, copier, facsimile, and other standard office equipment.

Benefits

• Free city-paid employee health coverage, additional for spouse or family.
• 3 weeks Paid Time Off (sick & vacation).
• 13 paid holidays.
• Pension plan & optional Deferred Compensation.
• City-paid life insurance.
• Optional Vision, Dental, and Disability Insurance.
• Tuition reimbursement.
• On-site Gym facility.
• And much more!

Pay

The salary shown in the job description is the full range for this position from entry to later career. NEW EMPLOYEES ARE HIRED AT, OR NEAR THE ENTRY POINT SHOWN, DEPENDING ON QUALIFICATIONS AND RELEVANT EXPERIENCE.

Schedule

This position requires regular and reliable attendance and the employee's physical presence at the workplace.