Job Details

Performs difficult professional accounting work in the maintenance, revision and/or development of an accounting system; analyzes fiscal data; provides advisory services; and performs other related duties as required.

Distinguishing Characteristics:

This class differs from the Chief Accountant in that the Accountant III performs the more difficult and complex accounting work for a fiscal program or a major component of a larger program or in the conduct of activities related to the maintenance and control of master accounting records and the preparation of financial reports on all major funding of the County; whereas the Chief Accountant directs the centralized accounting and related activities to include the maintenance of all control accounting records for all funds of the County.

The following are examples of duties and are not necessarily descriptive of any one position in this class. The omission of specific duties statements does not preclude management from assigning such duties if such duties are a logical assignment for the position.

Examples of Duties:

1. Collects, compiles, classifies and evaluates fiscal data;
2. Takes trial balances, makes adjusting and closing entries;
3. Verifies and analyzes financial data and prepares financial statements and reports;
4. Supervises lower level personnel concerned with fiscal control;
5. Recommends changes of forms, procedures and policies governing the accounting functions and implements changes as directed;
6. Conducts internal review to ensure that accounting systems and procedures are effective, efficient and properly implemented;
7. Prepares reports necessary for the determination and reporting of Federal and State expenditure and fund balances on Federal and/or State-funded programs and projects;
8. Confers with other agency officials on financial matters;
9. Assists management officials by interpreting accounting data, trends, statements, etc., and explaining the program implications of accounting data;
10. Assists in preparing quarterly financial reports on the status of all appropriations, allotments, and encumbrances for all departments and all funds of the County.

Training and Experience:

A combination of education and experience substantially equivalent to graduation from an accredited college or university with a major in accounting or in business administration with courses in accounting and three years of responsible work experience in professional level accounting.

Knowledge of:

1. Principles and practices of commercial and governmental accounting;
2. Preparation and analysis of financial statements and reports;
3. Public fiscal administration including budgeting and financial reporting;
4. Office practices and procedures;
5. Principles and practices of supervision.

Ability to:

1. Devise and install accounting methods, techniques and procedures;
2. Plan, assign and direct the work of subordinates;
3. Prepare complete and accurate reports and standards;
4. Analyze data, detect errors and correct inconsistencies in accounting records;
5. Maintain effective working relationships with others.

Health and Physical Condition:

Persons seeking appointment to positions in this class must meet the health and physical condition standards deemed necessary and proper for performance of the duties.

Physical Effort Grouping:

Light