What are the responsibilities and job description for the City of Olean Auditor position at City of Olean?
City Auditor (Updated 3-12-26)
Distinguishing Factors of the Class
The City Auditor is responsible for the administration and oversight of all municipal accounting, financial reporting, and internal financial control functions of the City. The position serves as the City’s chief accounting and financial officer and is responsible for ensuring the accuracy, integrity, and transparency of the City’s financial records and financial reporting.
The City Auditor provides financial information and analysis to the Mayor, Common Council, department heads, and other stakeholders to support sound fiscal management and policy decisions. The position oversees compliance with governmental accounting standards, New York State reporting requirements, and applicable federal and state regulations.
The City Auditor exercises independent professional judgment in the management of the City’s accounting systems, financial reporting processes, and internal financial controls.
Typical Work Activities
- Maintains and oversees the City’s general ledger and accounting systems in accordance with governmental accounting standards.
- Ensures the timely and accurate preparation of monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements and reports.
- Prepares financial reports and budget-to-actual analyses for the Mayor, Common Council, and department heads.
- Assists in the development, monitoring, and administration of the City’s annual operating and capital budgets.
- Monitors departmental revenues and expenditures to ensure compliance with the adopted budget.
- Develops financial forecasts and provides analysis of fiscal trends affecting City operations.
- Oversees internal financial control systems designed to safeguard municipal assets and ensure proper authorization and documentation of financial transactions.
- Coordinates and manages the City’s annual independent financial audit and responds to audit findings or recommendations.
- Ensures compliance with reporting requirements of the New York State Comptroller, GASB standards, and other regulatory bodies.
· Oversees financial administration and reporting for federal, state, and local grant programs, ensuring compliance with all applicable requirements.
- Participates in municipal debt issuance, capital financing, and long-term financial planning activities.
- Oversees administration of financial management systems and accounting software used by the City.
- Reviews and approves claims, invoices, and warrants for payment.
- · Ensures compliance with municipal procurement policies and applicable state purchasing regulations.
- Administers programs such as fleet replacement, procurement card oversight, and other financial control programs.
· Monitors City cash balances, investments, and short-term liquidity needs ensuring appropriate financial oversight.
- Oversees accounting activities related to the Olean Urban Renewal Agency.
- Provides financial guidance and support to City departments to improve financial management and accountability.
- Supervises accounting staff and coordinates financial operations across departments.
- Presents financial information to the Common Council and other public bodies as required.
· Performs related duties as required to support the financial integrity and fiscal sustainability of the City.
Knowledge, Skills & Abilities
- Thorough knowledge of governmental accounting standards (GASB)
- Knowledge of municipal budgeting and financial reporting
- Knowledge of internal control systems, financial risk management, and compliance requirements.
- Ability to prepare complex financial analyses and reports
- Ability to communicate financial information clearly to elected officials and the public
- Ability to supervise financial operations and staff
- High degree of professional integrity and judgment
Minimum Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or a related field including at least 18 credit hours in accounting.
Five (5) years of progressively responsible accounting or financial management experience, preferably including governmental accounting.
Professional certifications such as CPA, CMA, or CGFM may be considered highly desirable.
Compensation Range
Full-time salary: $95,000 – $120,000 annually with minimum qualifications
A Civil Service application must be submitted.
Pay: $95,000.00 - $120,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- Health insurance
- Paid time off
- Retirement plan
Work Location: In person
Salary : $95,000 - $120,000