What are the responsibilities and job description for the Statewide Accountant position at State of Washington?
Description
Please Note: The starting salary offer will be determined based on the successful candidates’ qualifications within the starting salary range of $105,000 - $122,928 annually. Please note that there is career salary growth beyond this starting range for the successful candidate.
Hybrid: Our physical office is in Olympia, WA. We offer flexible work schedules and locations. This is a hybrid position where most of the work allows for telework. However, you will need to travel to in-person activities, meetings, and events as needed for business purposes.
Why work for OFM?
The Office of Financial Management (OFM) serves as the backbone of Washington state government. Our mission is to make our state a better place by connecting people, budgets, policies, data, and systems for state agencies and the Legislature. Our team includes budget advisors, researchers, and other experts, all dedicated public servants working towards an equitable future for every Washingtonian.
If you want to play a key role in enhancing how state government serves its citizens, you’ve found the right place. Join us in making a meaningful difference for every Washingtonian!
The job opportunity
Want a role where your accounting expertise has statewide impacts? Our Statewide Accounting Division supports how Washington State manages, reports, and safeguards public funds, and this position plays a key role in making that happen.
Our team manages the State Administrative and Accounting Manual (SAAM)—the playbook for how state dollars are accounted for and reported. We also prepare statewide financial reports, including the Annual Comprehensive Financial Report (ACFR) and the Statewide Single Audit Report, and support agencies as they navigate complex accounting questions, new laws, and evolving standards.
In this role, you’ll serve state agencies as a trusted financial consultant. You’ll regularly interpret state financial policies, laws, regulations, Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP), and Governmental Accounting Standards Board (GASB) requirements and translate them into clear, practical guidance for agency leadership. Collaboration is central to the job. You’ll work closely with colleagues across the Accounting Division and partner with other OFM divisions to ensure agencies receive consistent, coordinated guidance on accounting, budgeting, and financial system impacts.
If you’re looking for meaningful public service work where your expertise helps shape statewide financial practices, consider applying now!
Duties
What You’ll Work On
What we need you to bring
Required Qualifications
Supplemental Information
Application Process: Once you’ve decided to apply for a state government job, you’ll complete an online application to showcase your qualifications. Keep in mind that once you submit the application, a real person will read it. We do not use AI or other technology that screens your application and rejects it. Please ensure that you provide clear and detailed information about your work history, allowing your qualifications to be accurately assessed. We will contact the top candidates directly to schedule interviews. If you require a reasonable accommodation during the application process, please call 7-1-1 or 1-800-833-6384.
Your Application Will Not Be Considered Complete And Sent To The Hiring Teams For Review Unless You Attach All Of The Following
OFM's Staff ASL interpreter is available to all deaf and hard-of-hearing applicants. For questions about this recruitment or to request a reasonable accommodation during the application or interview process, please email us at TalentAcquisition@ofm.wa.gov.
The Office of Financial Management is an equal opportunity employer. We strive to create a working environment that includes and respects cultural, racial, ethnic, sexual orientation and gender identity diversity. Women, racial and ethnic minorities, persons of disability, persons over 40 years of age, and disabled and Vietnam-era veterans are encouraged to apply.
This position is exempt from civil service rules.
For more information, please see WAC 357-19-195.
More than Just a Paycheck!
Employee benefits are not just about the kind of services you get, they are also about how much you may have to pay out of pocket. Washington State offers one of the most competitive benefits packages in the nation.
We understand that your life revolves around more than just your career. Like everyone, your first priority is ensuring that you and your family will maintain health and financial security. That's why choice is a key component of our benefits package. We have a selection of health and retirement plans, paid leave, staff training and other compensation benefits that you can mix and match to meet your current and future needs.
Read About Our Benefits
The following information describes typical benefits available for full-time employees who are expected to work more than six months. Actual benefits may vary by appointment type or be prorated for other than full-time work (e.g. part-time); view the job posting for benefits details for job types other than full-time.
Note: If the position offers benefits which differ from the following, the job posting should include the specific benefits.
Insurance Benefits
Employees and their families are covered by medical (including vision), dental and basic life insurance. There are multiple medical plans with affordable monthly premiums that offer coverage throughout the state.
Staff are eligible to enroll each year in a medical flexible spending account which enables them to use tax-deferred dollars toward their health care expenses. Employees are also covered by basic life and long-term disability insurance, with the option to purchase additional coverage amounts.
To view premium rates, coverage choice in your area and how to enroll, please visit the Public Employees Benefits Board (PEBB) website. The Washington Wellness program from the Health Care Authority works with PEBB to support our workplace wellness programs.
Dependent care assistance allows the employee to save pre-tax dollars for a child or elder care expenses.
Other insurance coverage for auto, boat, home, and renter insurance is available through payroll deduction.
The Washington State Employee Assistance Program promotes the health and well-being of employees.
Retirement And Deferred Compensation
State Employees are members of the Washington Public Employees' Retirement System (PERS). New employees have the option of two employer contributed retirement programs. For additional information, check out the Department of Retirement Systems' web site.
Employees also have the ability to participate in the Deferred Compensation Program (DCP). This is a supplemental retirement savings program (similar to an IRA) that allows you control over the amount of pre-tax salary dollars you defer as well as the flexibility to choose between multiple investment options.
Social Security
All state employees are covered by the federal Social Security and Medicare systems. The state and the employee pay an equal amount into the system.
Public Service Loan Forgiveness
If you are employed by a government or not-for-profit organization, and meet the qualifying criteria, you may be eligible to receive student loan forgiveness under the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program.
Holidays
Full-time and part-time employees are entitled to paid holidays and one paid personal holiday per calendar year.
Note: Employees who are members of certain Unions may be entitled to additional personal leave day(s), please refer to position specific Collective Bargaining Agreements for more information.
Full-time employees who work full monthly schedules qualify for holiday compensation if they are employed before the holiday and are in pay status for at least 80 nonovertime hours during the month of the holiday; or for the entire work shift preceding the holiday.
Part-time employees who are in pay status during the month of the holiday qualify for the holiday on a pro-rata basis. Compensation for holidays (including personal holiday) will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status in the month to that required for full-time employment, excluding all holiday hours. Pay status includes hours worked and time on paid leave.
Sick Leave
Full-time employees earn eight hours of sick leave per month. Overtime eligible employees who are in pay status for less than 80 hours per month, earn a monthly proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment. Overtime exempt employees who are in pay status for less than 80 hours per month do not earn a monthly accrual of sick leave.
Sick leave accruals for part-time employees will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment. Pay status includes hours worked, time on paid leave and paid holiday.
Vacation (Annual Leave)
Full-time employees accrue vacation leave at the rates specified in WAC 357-31-165(1) or the applicable collective bargaining agreement (CBA). Full-time employees who are in pay status for less than 80 nonovertime hours in a month do not earn a monthly accrual of vacation leave.
Part-time employees accrue vacation leave hours in accordance with WAC 357-31-165(1) or the applicable collective bargaining agreement (CBA) on a pro rata basis. Vacation leave accrual will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment.
Pay status includes hours worked, time on paid leave and paid holiday.
As provided in WAC 357-58-175, an employer may authorize a lump-sum accrual of vacation leave or accelerate the vacation leave accrual rate to support the recruitment and/or retention of a candidate or employee for a Washington Management Service position. Vacation leave accrual rates may only be accelerated using the rates established WAC 357-31-165.
Note: Most agencies follow the civil service rules covering leave and holidays for exempt employees even though there is no requirement for them to do so. However, agencies are required to adhere to the applicable RCWs pertaining holidays and leave.
Military Leave
Washington State supports members of the armed forces with 21 days paid military leave per year.
Bereavement Leave
Most employees whose family member or household member dies, or for loss of pregnancy, are entitled to five (5) days of paid bereavement leave. In addition, the employer may approve other available leave types for the purpose of bereavement leave.
Additional Leave
Leave Sharing
Parental Leave
Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)
Leave Without Pay
Please visit the State HR Website for more detailed information regarding benefits.
Updated 07-21-2025
01
Please select all that apply that best demonstrate your required experience for this role.
From the previous question, please briefly describe your experience, including your role and responsibilities.
03
Please select all relevant working experiences from the list below that apply.
How did you first learn about this job opportunity?
If you selected OFM or State employee, BRG, Career Fair event, or Other on the previous question, please list the name of the person and/or organization in the space below, otherwise type NA.
06
The application process requires that you attach a cover letter detailing how you meet the qualifications of this position and a resume. Please click below to indicate you have attached the required documentation.
Please Note: The starting salary offer will be determined based on the successful candidates’ qualifications within the starting salary range of $105,000 - $122,928 annually. Please note that there is career salary growth beyond this starting range for the successful candidate.
Hybrid: Our physical office is in Olympia, WA. We offer flexible work schedules and locations. This is a hybrid position where most of the work allows for telework. However, you will need to travel to in-person activities, meetings, and events as needed for business purposes.
Why work for OFM?
The Office of Financial Management (OFM) serves as the backbone of Washington state government. Our mission is to make our state a better place by connecting people, budgets, policies, data, and systems for state agencies and the Legislature. Our team includes budget advisors, researchers, and other experts, all dedicated public servants working towards an equitable future for every Washingtonian.
If you want to play a key role in enhancing how state government serves its citizens, you’ve found the right place. Join us in making a meaningful difference for every Washingtonian!
The job opportunity
Want a role where your accounting expertise has statewide impacts? Our Statewide Accounting Division supports how Washington State manages, reports, and safeguards public funds, and this position plays a key role in making that happen.
Our team manages the State Administrative and Accounting Manual (SAAM)—the playbook for how state dollars are accounted for and reported. We also prepare statewide financial reports, including the Annual Comprehensive Financial Report (ACFR) and the Statewide Single Audit Report, and support agencies as they navigate complex accounting questions, new laws, and evolving standards.
In this role, you’ll serve state agencies as a trusted financial consultant. You’ll regularly interpret state financial policies, laws, regulations, Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP), and Governmental Accounting Standards Board (GASB) requirements and translate them into clear, practical guidance for agency leadership. Collaboration is central to the job. You’ll work closely with colleagues across the Accounting Division and partner with other OFM divisions to ensure agencies receive consistent, coordinated guidance on accounting, budgeting, and financial system impacts.
If you’re looking for meaningful public service work where your expertise helps shape statewide financial practices, consider applying now!
Duties
What You’ll Work On
- Serve as a consultant to state agencies by providing consulting services to an assigned set of state agencies, as well as others within OFM, in resolving financial and technical issues regarding state financial policies, state laws and regulations, and implementation of generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP) in accordance with state law.
- Monitor agency financial data monthly for accuracy, appropriateness, and conformity with state statute, state allotment authority, and national standards for accounting and financial reporting. Includes analysis of and recommending corrections as necessary to the agency's monthly financial data.
- Review year-end data submissions by assigned state agencies. Coordinate adjusting entries when needed. Consult with staff of the State Auditor’s Office when necessary.
- Participate in the preparation of the State of Washington Annual Comprehensive Financial Report (ACFR).
- Maintain assigned provisions of the State Administrative & Accounting Manual (SAAM). This involves interpreting and responding to questions, coordinating appropriate changes to SAAM when state law or other regulations are amended, and developing resources and providing training on the assigned SAAM sections.
- Develop and maintain assigned provisions in Washington Administrative and Accounting Manual (WAAM).
- Assist with developing, reviewing, and providing feedback on statewide accounting training. Conduct instructor-led statewide accounting courses and present to state fiscal staff at statewide accounting meetings.
- Draft articles for the Statewide Accounting News.
What we need you to bring
Required Qualifications
- Advanced knowledge in preparing, reviewing, and analyzing journal entries and financial transactions; completing and reconciling general ledger and subsidiary accounts; identifying and preparing correcting entries; participating in month-end and fiscal year-end close processes; and applying Governmental Accounting Standards (GASB) accurately and consistently.
- Advanced knowledge of conducting and supporting audits to assess compliance with state laws and federal regulations; performing audits of governmental financial statements; evaluating the effectiveness of internal controls; and documenting findings in accordance with professional auditing standards.
- Demonstrated proficiency in interpreting accounting and reporting requirements; prepare or review governmental financial statements, notes, and required supplementary information (RSI); and ensure accurate, complete, and compliant financial reporting in accordance with GASB standards.
- The ability to take action to learn and grow.
- The ability to meet the needs of others.
- Bachelor’s degree with a major in accounting or other related field, which included 10 semester hours or 15 quarter hours of college-level accounting.
- In-depth familiarity with Washington State laws, regulations, and administrative/accounting policies and generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP).
- Experience working in the state of Washington’s enterprise systems, such as AFRS and Enterprise Reporting.
Supplemental Information
Application Process: Once you’ve decided to apply for a state government job, you’ll complete an online application to showcase your qualifications. Keep in mind that once you submit the application, a real person will read it. We do not use AI or other technology that screens your application and rejects it. Please ensure that you provide clear and detailed information about your work history, allowing your qualifications to be accurately assessed. We will contact the top candidates directly to schedule interviews. If you require a reasonable accommodation during the application process, please call 7-1-1 or 1-800-833-6384.
Your Application Will Not Be Considered Complete And Sent To The Hiring Teams For Review Unless You Attach All Of The Following
- Cover letter: describing your qualifications for this specific position
- Resume: that details your applicable experience and education.
- References: at least three professional references and their contact information.
OFM's Staff ASL interpreter is available to all deaf and hard-of-hearing applicants. For questions about this recruitment or to request a reasonable accommodation during the application or interview process, please email us at TalentAcquisition@ofm.wa.gov.
The Office of Financial Management is an equal opportunity employer. We strive to create a working environment that includes and respects cultural, racial, ethnic, sexual orientation and gender identity diversity. Women, racial and ethnic minorities, persons of disability, persons over 40 years of age, and disabled and Vietnam-era veterans are encouraged to apply.
This position is exempt from civil service rules.
For more information, please see WAC 357-19-195.
More than Just a Paycheck!
Employee benefits are not just about the kind of services you get, they are also about how much you may have to pay out of pocket. Washington State offers one of the most competitive benefits packages in the nation.
We understand that your life revolves around more than just your career. Like everyone, your first priority is ensuring that you and your family will maintain health and financial security. That's why choice is a key component of our benefits package. We have a selection of health and retirement plans, paid leave, staff training and other compensation benefits that you can mix and match to meet your current and future needs.
Read About Our Benefits
The following information describes typical benefits available for full-time employees who are expected to work more than six months. Actual benefits may vary by appointment type or be prorated for other than full-time work (e.g. part-time); view the job posting for benefits details for job types other than full-time.
Note: If the position offers benefits which differ from the following, the job posting should include the specific benefits.
Insurance Benefits
Employees and their families are covered by medical (including vision), dental and basic life insurance. There are multiple medical plans with affordable monthly premiums that offer coverage throughout the state.
Staff are eligible to enroll each year in a medical flexible spending account which enables them to use tax-deferred dollars toward their health care expenses. Employees are also covered by basic life and long-term disability insurance, with the option to purchase additional coverage amounts.
To view premium rates, coverage choice in your area and how to enroll, please visit the Public Employees Benefits Board (PEBB) website. The Washington Wellness program from the Health Care Authority works with PEBB to support our workplace wellness programs.
Dependent care assistance allows the employee to save pre-tax dollars for a child or elder care expenses.
Other insurance coverage for auto, boat, home, and renter insurance is available through payroll deduction.
The Washington State Employee Assistance Program promotes the health and well-being of employees.
Retirement And Deferred Compensation
State Employees are members of the Washington Public Employees' Retirement System (PERS). New employees have the option of two employer contributed retirement programs. For additional information, check out the Department of Retirement Systems' web site.
Employees also have the ability to participate in the Deferred Compensation Program (DCP). This is a supplemental retirement savings program (similar to an IRA) that allows you control over the amount of pre-tax salary dollars you defer as well as the flexibility to choose between multiple investment options.
Social Security
All state employees are covered by the federal Social Security and Medicare systems. The state and the employee pay an equal amount into the system.
Public Service Loan Forgiveness
If you are employed by a government or not-for-profit organization, and meet the qualifying criteria, you may be eligible to receive student loan forgiveness under the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program.
Holidays
Full-time and part-time employees are entitled to paid holidays and one paid personal holiday per calendar year.
Note: Employees who are members of certain Unions may be entitled to additional personal leave day(s), please refer to position specific Collective Bargaining Agreements for more information.
Full-time employees who work full monthly schedules qualify for holiday compensation if they are employed before the holiday and are in pay status for at least 80 nonovertime hours during the month of the holiday; or for the entire work shift preceding the holiday.
Part-time employees who are in pay status during the month of the holiday qualify for the holiday on a pro-rata basis. Compensation for holidays (including personal holiday) will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status in the month to that required for full-time employment, excluding all holiday hours. Pay status includes hours worked and time on paid leave.
Sick Leave
Full-time employees earn eight hours of sick leave per month. Overtime eligible employees who are in pay status for less than 80 hours per month, earn a monthly proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment. Overtime exempt employees who are in pay status for less than 80 hours per month do not earn a monthly accrual of sick leave.
Sick leave accruals for part-time employees will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment. Pay status includes hours worked, time on paid leave and paid holiday.
Vacation (Annual Leave)
Full-time employees accrue vacation leave at the rates specified in WAC 357-31-165(1) or the applicable collective bargaining agreement (CBA). Full-time employees who are in pay status for less than 80 nonovertime hours in a month do not earn a monthly accrual of vacation leave.
Part-time employees accrue vacation leave hours in accordance with WAC 357-31-165(1) or the applicable collective bargaining agreement (CBA) on a pro rata basis. Vacation leave accrual will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment.
Pay status includes hours worked, time on paid leave and paid holiday.
As provided in WAC 357-58-175, an employer may authorize a lump-sum accrual of vacation leave or accelerate the vacation leave accrual rate to support the recruitment and/or retention of a candidate or employee for a Washington Management Service position. Vacation leave accrual rates may only be accelerated using the rates established WAC 357-31-165.
Note: Most agencies follow the civil service rules covering leave and holidays for exempt employees even though there is no requirement for them to do so. However, agencies are required to adhere to the applicable RCWs pertaining holidays and leave.
Military Leave
Washington State supports members of the armed forces with 21 days paid military leave per year.
Bereavement Leave
Most employees whose family member or household member dies, or for loss of pregnancy, are entitled to five (5) days of paid bereavement leave. In addition, the employer may approve other available leave types for the purpose of bereavement leave.
Additional Leave
Leave Sharing
Parental Leave
Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)
Leave Without Pay
Please visit the State HR Website for more detailed information regarding benefits.
Updated 07-21-2025
01
Please select all that apply that best demonstrate your required experience for this role.
- Advanced knowledge in preparing, reviewing, and analyzing journal entries and financial transactions; completing and reconciling general ledger and subsidiary accounts; identifying and preparing correcting entries; participating in month-end and fiscal year-end close processes; and applying Governmental Accounting Standards (GASB) accurately and consistently.
- Advanced knowledge of conducting and supporting audits to assess compliance with state laws and federal regulations; performing audits of governmental financial statements; evaluating the effectiveness of internal controls; and documenting findings in accordance with professional auditing standards.
- Demonstrated proficiency in interpreting accounting and reporting requirements; prepare or review governmental financial statements, notes, and required supplementary information (RSI); and ensure accurate, complete, and compliant financial reporting in accordance with GASB standards.
- None of these apply.
From the previous question, please briefly describe your experience, including your role and responsibilities.
03
Please select all relevant working experiences from the list below that apply.
- Interpreting and applying accounting, auditing, or reporting standards in a governmental environment.
- Preparing or reviewing governmental financial statements, notes, or Required Supplementary Information (RSI).
- Participating in month-end or fiscal year-end close for the state of Washington.
- Interpreting Washington State accounting laws, regulations, administrative policies, or GAAP in a governmental setting.
- Using Washington State enterprise systems (e.g., AFRS, Enterprise Reporting).
- None of these apply.
How did you first learn about this job opportunity?
- Word of mouth (e.g., friends, family, neighbor, etc.)
- OFM employee
- Other State employee
- Business Resource Group (BRG's)
- Career fair event
- Careers.wa.gov
- DeafNation
- Public job sites (e.g., Indeed, LinkedIn, Handshake, ZipRecruiter, Glassdoor, Monster, etc.)
- WorkSource Office or similar
- OFM website
- governmentjobs.com
- Other
If you selected OFM or State employee, BRG, Career Fair event, or Other on the previous question, please list the name of the person and/or organization in the space below, otherwise type NA.
06
The application process requires that you attach a cover letter detailing how you meet the qualifications of this position and a resume. Please click below to indicate you have attached the required documentation.
- Yes, I have attached a cover letter and a resume.
- No, I have not attached a cover letter and a resume.
- Required Question
Salary : $105,000 - $122,928