Accountant III - Government Accounting Washington District Perm Career $ 115K

Job Description This is a remote position. Title: Accountant III Company: Leading public sector organization Salary: Up to $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. 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. 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, please let me know the details in bold and attach a copy of your CV for review. Requirements 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.