Accounting, Accounting Close, Accounting Policies, Accounting Software, Accounts Payable, Accounts Receivable, Background Investigation, Card Processing, Communication Skills, Continuous Improvement, Customer Support/Service, Driver's License, ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning), Establish Priorities, Federal Laws and Regulations, Finance, Financial Audit, Financial Control, Financial Reporting, Financial Statements, General Ledger Accounting, Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP), Government, Leadership, Management Strategy, Mentoring, Operational Improvement, Operational Strategy, Operations Management, Organizational Development/Management, Payroll Administration, Problem Solving Skills, Process Improvement, Reconciliation, Regulatory Compliance, Regulatory Requirements, Staff Training, Systems Administration/Management, Team Player, Time Management, Trial Balances
Application Deadline: Open Until Filled
Starting Salary: $67,603.02
Dependent on experience and qualifications.
The Senior Accountant reports to the Controller and will work in the Controller's Office. The Senior Accountant must be a skilled professional accountant, a supportive mentor, and a strategic thinker who communicates well, manages a high volume of detailed accounting work to produce high-quality outcomes, and is a strong team player. This position must be deadline-driven and committed to continuous improvement within the department. This role will be responsible for all standard accounting reconciliations and for assisting with month-end and year-end close processes, including audit and ACFR preparation. The Senior Accountant will also have a strong understanding of payroll processing and will assist with the organization-wide payroll.
Duties and Responsibilities:
- Manage and enhance organization-wide business and accounting systems and processes, including accounts payable, accounts receivable, purchase cards, payroll, cash receipting, vendor setup, investments, and debt-related activities.
- Assist the Controller in evaluating and implementing process improvements, workflows, and system controls to improve operational efficiency, accuracy, and internal controls.
- Support the accuracy and integrity of the trial balance and general ledger by facilitating departmental approvals and performing complex reconciliations in accordance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP).
- Maintain and support Citywide timekeeping and payroll processes in compliance with applicable federal laws; process semi-monthly payroll and cross-train on monthly payroll and Personnel Action Form (PAF) processing.
- Lead assigned accounting and customer service functions, including accounts payable, purchase card processing, vendor setup, accounts receivable, and cash receipting.
- Collaborate with City departments to ensure that accounting processes and system configurations support appropriate financial controls and organizational needs.
- Assist in preparing interim financial statements, reports, and related financial information for the Executive Leadership Team and the City Council.
- Provide organization-wide training on accounting processes and procedures; mentor and cross-train accounting staff, offer constructive feedback, and support professional development.
- Maintain open, professional, and emotionally intelligent communication with the Controller on organizational challenges, operational needs, and opportunities for improvement.
- Strategically manage operational responsibilities and projects; prioritize competing deadlines, adapt to shifting priorities, resolve outstanding issues, and deliver accurate, high-quality work with minimal supervision.
Qualifications and Requirements:
- Bachelor's degree in accounting, finance, or related field.
- 5-7 years of proven progressive experience in accounting, including independent work in trial balance, audit, and financial statement preparation.
- 5 years of payroll experience is strongly preferred.
- Working in an ERP system is required; a strong preference will be given to those with system enhancement experience.
- A strong preference will be given to applicants who have a working knowledge of GAAP for governments and/or of the compliance and legal requirements unique to the government sector.
Why Join Our Team?
The City of Laramie provides a comprehensive benefits package to promote employee well-being and work-life balance. It includes health and dental insurance with employer contributions, along with options for vision, life, and disability coverage. Employees also benefit from a retirement pension plan, paid annual leave, designated paid holidays, and the chance to participate in a community volunteer day. Additional benefits may include wellness initiatives, discounted gym memberships, access to LCCC courses, and free counseling sessions.
Applicants who are offered appointments will be required to pass a drug screening, a comprehensive background investigation, and a driver's license check.
The City of Laramie is an EEO/ADA employer and a smoke-free workplace.