Accountant VI

POSITION SUMMARY

The incumbent in this position is primarily responsible for payroll processing and analysis, to include preparing various financial and accounting reports according to generally accepted accounting principles, practices and procedures. Other general accounting duties may be assigned.

This position reports to the Payroll Manager. The incumbent in the position performs the financial activities associated with payroll processing and other general accounting operations within Columbia County.

Work is performed in an office environment. Physical demands include intermittent sitting, standing, stooping, walking, bending, stretching, and lifting of objects weighing up to 25 pounds.

PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTABILITIES

• Maintains payroll accounting system to include ensuring current and accurate general ledger balances, analyzing accounts for nature and accuracy of transactions, preparing financial reports, and preparing journal entries.
• Executes payroll processing to include hours analysis, maintenance of benefit and deduction codes, and compliance with reporting requirements.
• Prepares and maintains spreadsheets, cost allocations, reclassification and adjusting journal entries, and other recurring/routine transactions as needed.
• Assists in research and implementation of Federal and State mandates and regulations.
• Assists internal and external auditors by providing data needed to complete audits.
• Provides technical payroll assistance to other departments and proposes improvements to financial management procedures and operations pertaining to payroll management.
• Performs other related duties as assigned.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES

• Knowledge of generally accepted accounting principles, practices and procedures as they relate to payroll activities.
• Knowledge of county, state and federal laws, rules and regulations governing accounting and payroll activities of county government.
• Ability to prepare and interpret accounting and financial reports and statements.
• Ability to plan and execute payroll data under minimal supervision.
• Ability to deal tactfully, effectively and equitably with internal and external customers and general public.
• Ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing.
• Skill in using various computers, software and hardware applications for manipulation of accounting information.

DESIRABLE TRAINING AND EXPERIENCE

An Associate degree in accounting, public administration, business administration or related field required and a minimum of one year payroll experience required or an equivalent combination of education and experience may substitute for an equivalent education and experience. Excellent writing, communication and organizational skills are necessary. Experience in use of various accounting, data base and word processing computer programs and personal computers is required.

A combination of education and/or work experience can be substituted for minimum requirements.