Finance Clerk II Sales Tax

This position functions as the primary point of contact of the City’s Sales Tax and Business License program, performing associated accounting and financial transactions to support the City’s financial operations.

The following duties are essential for this position.  However, they are not to be construed as exclusive or all–inclusive.  To be successful in this position, an individual must be able to perform each duty satisfactorily.  Other duties may also be required or assigned.

• Provides customer service to internal and external customers; communicates Sales Tax and Business License Code information for citizens, businesses, City employees and other parties over the phone, at the customer counter or via email. 
• Assists customers in determining licensing requirements and on-line account setup; fields general questions and provides timely responses to questions with information and resources to ensure businesses are properly licensed and remitting sales tax properly. 

• Calculates, records, and reconciles sales tax revenues collected by the City.

• Interprets, administers, and applies sales tax and business license requirements in accordance with the Wasilla Municipal Code for citizens, businesses, City employees and other parties.
• Administers licensing functions including both new and renewal licensing, including review of licensing questionnaire and application to determine need and type of license, coordination with planning department regarding land use permits, review for prior balances due, and final approval
• Administers monthly, quarterly, and annual sales tax returns and collections, including issuing notifications as needed, processing return adjustments/corrections, and general account assistance.
• Maintains sales tax records and files for both electronic and paper formats, as applicable.  
• Receipts sales tax and other payments received by the City. Notifies businesses of on-line payment issues. Initiates refund requests when necessary.
• Provides notification to businesses not in compliance with licensing and taxing requirements. When necessary, coordinates and works with Sales Tax Auditor and Code Compliance Officer for resolution.
• Prepares and mails delinquent notices or over/under payment notices.
• Collects delinquent sales tax amounts through various avenues such as payment agreements, collection agencies, and legal action.  Prepares publication of delinquent sales tax accounts. Prepares and files liens under the direction of the Finance Director and/or Controller.
• Assists Sales Tax Auditor with the collection of information necessary to conduct audit functions.
• Recommends changes to Wasilla City Code regarding the administration and collection of Sales Tax and Business Licenses, as applicable.
• Compiles reports, lists and mailing labels of Wasilla businesses as requested by the public, business owners or administration.
• Issues exemption certificates to non-profit organizations, wholesalers, contractors, and private builders in accordance with the Business License Code.
• Updates the Sales Tax web site as necessary to ensure it provides timely and relevant information to citizens and businesses.

• Prepares and submits reports on sales tax collections and discrepancies; assists with audits or investigations related to sales tax.
• Generates monthly, quarterly, and annual financial reports related to accounts receivable and sales tax collections.
• Adheres to City, state, and federal regulations regarding financial transactions, sales tax, and recordkeeping.

• Maintains electronic filing, paper filing, and record systems to provide easy access to records and information; provides retention of records as required by Department and City policies.
• Other duties as assigned. 

Knowledge of:

• Accounting principles regarding accounts receivable and collections including the permanent fund garnishment process. 
• Advanced accounting principles regarding accounts receivable and collections. FINANCE CLERK III
• Advanced working knowledge of the Wasilla Municipal Code dealing with finance with the ability to make decisions in applying Wasilla Municipal Code. FINANCE CLERK III
• Advanced working knowledge of federal and state statutes regarding collections with the ability to make decisions in applying federal and state statutes. FINANCE CLERK III
• Principles, theories and concepts of accounting including Governmental Accounting Standards Board (GASB) for all fund types.
• The City’s and Department’s operating requirements, policies, procedures, and practices; and local, state, and federal regulations related to department programs and operations.
• Operation of standard office equipment and software consistent with this position.

Skill in:

• Preparing accounting transactions, financial statements and reports.
• Applying accounting principles to work activities in an Enterprise Resource Planning software.
• Organizational and time management to prioritize duties while adapting to constant changes in priority.
• Researching and understanding complex written materials; maintaining accurate internal records.

Ability to:

• Independently process Sales Tax functions and Business License functions and be able to make decisions in applying Wasilla Municipal Code and Federal and State Statutes regarding Sales Tax, Business Licenses, and collection of delinquent debts. FINANCE CLERK III
• Independently perform informative educational training to businesses regarding Sales Tax and Business Licensing. FINANCE CLERK III
• Apply sound judgment and discretion in performing duties, resolving problems, and interpreting policies and regulations.
• Read, write, speak, understand, or communicate in English sufficiently to perform the duties of this position.
• Prepare and maintain accurate and concise records and reports.
• Maintain professionalism at all times.
• Use appropriate language, style and methods depending on audience and the purpose of communication. 
• Communicate effectively both orally and in writing with business representatives, elected officials, department heads, the public, and other City employees with courtesy and tact.
• Maintain effective working relationships with individuals within and outside the organization.

• Maintain confidentiality and discretion regarding business-related files, reports and conversations, within the provision of Freedom of Information Act and other applicable State and Federal statutes and regulations.
• Work the allocated hours of the position.

Minimum Education: High School diploma or equivalent. 

Minimum Experience Finance Clerk II: Three (3) years of accounting experience. A combination of education and experience may be considered.

Other Requirements: 

Salary : $31 - $41