| Location | Ellensburg, Washington |
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.
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.