What are the responsibilities and job description for the Finance Director position at City of Bethel Alaska?
Company Description
The City of Bethel, located in the Yukon Kuskokwim Delta Region of Alaska, is a second-class City government with a City Manager/Council format. The City's FY26 budget reflects 101 full-time and additional part-time, temporary and casual employees. Most hourly employees are represented by a single bargaining unit.
The Community
The Bethel Census Area encompasses over 40,000 square miles in western Alaska. The City of Bethel is approximately 400 air miles from the nearest major population center (Anchorage) and is not accessible by road. Bethel serves as a regional hub for 52 surrounding villages, providing air connections from a State-managed airport able to accommodate Boeing 737s and significant commuter traffic. The Kuskokwim River supports seasonal boat and snow-machine travel in the region and for several months a year, is used by ocean-going barges from Seattle and Anchorage destined for Bethel’s Port. Bethel is home to the regional hospital, Lower Kuskokwim School District office, and several regional tribal organizations.
Role Description
This is a full-time position with a remote telework option. The Finance Director performs professional level work meeting the Department’s function and goals, in particular, serving as accountant and internal auditor for the City under the provisions of Title II of Bethel Municipal Code. The Finance Director is responsible for overseeing all financial reporting, accounting functions, and regulatory compliance. This position ensures the accuracy and integrity of financial data, prepared financial statements, and manages audits. The Finance Director does not directly supervise staff but serves as the City’s financial expert, ensuring fiscal responsibility and compliance with applicable laws.
Qualifications
Education and Experience:
Bachelor’s degree in public or business administration, or a closely related field; AND five (5) years of professional financial management experience; OR an equivalent combination of education, training and experience. Experience in public sector finance or municipal government is preferred.