What are the responsibilities and job description for the Lead Accountant position at MISSOULA COUNTY, MONTANA?
Job Description
Join Missoula County in making a meaningful impact, where your work supports our vibrant community, promotes public service, and contributes to a better future for all.Job Description:
RATE OF PAY: $40.008 - $45.265 per hour, DOE
JOB STATUS: Regular, Full Time
DEPARTMENT: Financial Services
BARGAINING UNIT: FMCE, MFPE
CLOSING DATE: Open until filled. Priority screening will occur on Tuesday, November 10, 2026. We will continue to accept and review applications until an adequate applicant pool is received, or the position is filled.
TO APPLY: Please complete the online application with your education and work history. Please attach to your application submission a LETTER OF INTEREST AND A RESUME. Incomplete applications may be disqualified. Please reach out to the Department of Human Resources if you need assistance applying.
DEFINITION : Performs professional level accounting work for the Financial Services Department. Serves as a lead worker providing direction to accounting staff and performing advanced, technical and complex accounting work that supports the County’s month-end and year-end closing process including trial balance management, reconciliations, reporting and financial compliance. This role provides expert support in maintaining the integrity and accuracy of the County’s financial records. This work includes work for outside agencies such as school districts, fire districts, special improvement districts and others who rely on the County’s financial system.
EXAMPLE OF DUTIES : Lead the preparation, review, and completion of month-end and year-end closing entries. Perform and oversee trial balance reconciliation, ensuring accuracy, completeness, and alignment with accounting standards. Review and reconcile complex general ledger accounts, adjusting entries, and financial schedules. Support payroll reporting and reconciliation processes.
Provide technical accounting guidance to staff and assist with resolving discrepancies. Prepares financial statements, schedules, and audit work papers. Collaborate with department managers to ensure timely, accurate financial data submissions. Support grant reporting, reimbursement requests, and compliance activities. Builds and maintains advanced Excel schedules and models. Provides backup coverage for key accounting functions, including payroll, AP, and AR, as needed. Performs related work as required or directed.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATION and EXPERIENCEE REQUIREMENTS : Bachelor’s degree in accounting or finance or equivalent work experience required.Minimum of 5-7 years of progressively responsible accounting experience, preferably in government or fund accounting. Demonstrated mastery of general ledger, trial balance and period-end closing processes. Strong understanding of GAPP. Knowledge of GASB preferred.
PHYSICAL/ENVIRONMENTAL DEMANDS : The work requires little physical activity, and the employee commonly remains in an office setting. May require occasional travel, locally and out of town to meetings and training. Requires a significant amount of time performing work at a computer workstation. Requires occasional medium lifting, (boxes, 25-35 pounds).
Additional Job Description:
Complete job description available upon request to the Department of Human Resources
As a Missoula County employee, you will be a part of a team that is committed to positively impacting the community.
Missoula County is an equal opportunity employer. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, creed, national origin or ancestry, sex, age, physical or mental disability, veteran or military status, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, or military status
Salary : $40 - $45