Accountant

$60,320 - $72,800/Yr

Columbus Metro Parks - Westerville, OH

Full-time - Entry Level

Westerville, OH

About the position

The Accountant position at Metro Parks is responsible for maintaining the daily financial records in accordance with governmental fund accounting principles. This role involves planning, coordinating, organizing, and overseeing the ongoing operations of the accounting function, as well as managing purchasing functions for the park district. The Accountant ensures that all financial and accounting functions are executed accurately and in compliance with standard accounting practices and principles. The Accountant will maintain financial records in conformance with state law and the requirements established by the State Auditor's Office, ensuring adherence to generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP). This includes maintaining banking records, monitoring daily cash flow, and ensuring that accounts payable functions are processed accurately and timely. The role also involves preparing monthly and annual financial reports for the Board of Park Commissioners, analyzing revenues and expenditures, and producing expenditure summaries and cost allocation reports for budget centers. In addition to these responsibilities, the Accountant will support the annual budgeting process by coordinating data collection and analysis, preparing summary materials, and presenting to the Board. The position requires participation in the preparation of bid specifications, attending bid openings, and verifying compliance with state prevailing wage laws. The Accountant will also manage the inventory of fixed assets, collect and audit revenue income from park operations, and maintain computerized records for various financial operations. The role demands excellent problem-solving skills, time management, and the ability to communicate effectively with various stakeholders, including Metro Parks employees, public officials, and the general public. The Accountant must also demonstrate proficiency in technology, particularly in using personal computers and software such as Excel and Access databases. Overall, this position plays a crucial role in ensuring the financial integrity and operational efficiency of Metro Parks.

Responsibilities

• Maintain daily financial records of Metro Parks in accordance with governmental fund accounting principles.
• Plan, coordinate, organize, and oversee the ongoing operation of the accounting function.
• Oversee purchasing functions for the park district.
• Execute financial and accounting functions accurately in accordance with standard accounting practices.
• Maintain financial records in conformance with state law and GAAP.
• Monitor daily cash flow and maintain banking records and accounts.
• Ensure accurate and timely processing of accounts payable invoices.
• Prepare monthly and annual financial reports for the Board of Park Commissioners.
• Analyze revenues, expenditures, and changes in fund balances; produce expenditure summaries and cost allocation reports.
• Ensure compliance with fiscal policies, procedures, and legal requirements.
• Provide information and assistance to Metro Parks employees and the public.
• Support the annual budgeting process through data collection and analysis.
• Participate in the preparation of bid specifications and attend bid openings.
• Act as prevailing wage coordinator for public improvement projects.
• Prepare or assist in the preparation of construction contracts.
• Process requisitions and purchase orders; monitor purchases and price quotations.
• Meet with sales representatives, contractors, and vendors regarding purchasing procedures.
• Prepare GAAP schedules under accounting rules and procedures.
• Act as Risk Manager for Metro Parks, overseeing insurance specifications.
• Manage a budget for office items and monitor inventory of fixed assets.
• Collect, audit, and report revenue income from park operations; reconcile bank statements.

Requirements

• Baccalaureate degree in accounting or finance.
• Some experience in accounting, finance, or management information systems.
• Considerable skill and knowledge in the use of personal computers and electronic spreadsheets.
• Excellent problem identification and resolution skills.
• Strong time management and customer service skills.
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills.

Nice-to-haves

• Related experience with local government preferred.
• Experience with managerial financial reporting.