City of Sunnyvale

Director of Finance

SALARY

$309,968.00 - $371,961.00 Annually

LOCATION

Sunnyvale, CA

JOB TYPE

Full-Time

JOB NUMBER

24-00212

DEPARTMENT

Finance

DIVISION

Finance Administration

OPENING DATE

09/18/2024

CLOSING DATE

10/11/2024 5:00 PM Pacific

Description

 

For information on this opportunity, or to apply, please go to:

Peckham and McKenney Executive Search

 

 

Agency

City of Sunnyvale

Address

456 W. Olive Avenue

Sunnyvale, California, 94086

Phone

408-730-7490

Website

https://sunnyvale.ca.gov

An exciting opportunity is now open.

Accountant II

Hourly Range: $47.36 - $63.47

Bi-weekly: $ 3,789.05 - $5,077.69

Opening Date: August 23, 2024

Closing Date: September 13, 2024

Interested candidates are encouraged to apply immediately for consideration. Applications received by the initial screening date will have priority. 

The Santa Clara County Housing Authority (SCCHA) is the county’s largest provider of affordable housing, helping make rental housing safe and affordable for approximately 20,000 low-income households. 

How You Will Make an Impact:

The Santa Clara County Housing Authority (SCCHA) is looking for a skilled Accountant II to perform a range of complex and varied technical and professional accounting tasks. Key duties include auditing, analyzing, and verifying financial records and reports, preparing financial and statistical reports, assisting with budget preparation, and reconciling general ledger accounts. This role also involves preparing year-end audit reports and schedules, managing full-cycle Accounts Payable (A/P) functions, and coordinating Housing Assistance Payment (HAP) disbursements. The Accountant II acts as a liaison for disbursement-related activities with agency staff, vendors, contractors, and external partners while also providing backup support for payroll operations. Additionally, the role includes conducting financial analysis, developing internal controls, and interpreting Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP) and Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) guidelines.

Our team fosters a culture of collaboration and innovation, where open communication and creative problem-solving are prioritized. We embrace positivity and flexibility, approaching challenges with an optimistic mindset. In this role, the incumbent will have the opportunity to gain valuable project accounting experience, particularly in job cost accounting for development and construction projects. Additionally, there will be opportunities to enhance financial statement preparation and reconciliation skills within the affiliate non-profit portfolio.

The ideal candidate must demonstrate strong written and verbal communication skills, critical analytical thinking, and innovative problem-solving abilities. The ability to adapt and thrive in a fast-paced, high-pressure environment is essential. A solid understanding and practical application of generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP) are highly preferred, along with strong data analysis skills. Proficiency in accounting software and advanced Microsoft Excel capabilities are also preferred.

What Our Team Is Looking For: 

Any equivalent combination of education and/or experience likely to provide the required core competencies may be considered. A typical combination that is qualifying may include: 

• A bachelor’s degree from an accredited four-year college or university with major coursework in accounting, finance, or business, or closely related field; and  
• Four (4) years of responsible professional accounting experience. 

Join our Team!

The City of Simi Valley is excited to announce an excellent career opportunity working in our Fiscal Services division as an Accounting Technician I.

Details:

• Full-time regular position, alternative 9/80 work schedule with Monday or Friday off
• Salary Range from $21.97 to $28.04 per hour with Excellent Benefits
• To view the full job description and minimum qualifications, click on the link:

Please click the Job PDF button below to view the full job announcement brochure.

An exciting opportunity is now open!

Accountant I

Hourly Range: $38.87 - $52.09

Bi-weekly: $3,109.60 - $4,167.20

Opening Date: August 22, 2024

Closing Date: September 13, 2024

The Accountant I role is an entry-level position focused on technical and professional accounting tasks. This includes hands-on experience in areas such as general ledger account analysis, reviewing financial statements and reports for accuracy and compliance with government accounting regulations, and supporting full-cycle payroll and accounts payable processing. Proficiency with ERP accounting systems is essential, while hands-on experience with payroll systems (e.g., ADP) and knowledge of payroll/benefits regulations is desirable. The incumbent will gain exposure to various functions within the Finance department, including general ledger reconciliation, payroll processing and reporting, accounts payable, and financial statement reviews. Ensuring compliance with governmental accounting standards, payroll rules, and agency policies is a key responsibility.

The finance team fosters a culture of collaboration and innovation, emphasizing open communication and creative problem-solving. We value positivity, flexibility, and a proactive approach to overcoming challenges.

The ideal candidate is detail-oriented, eager to learn, and a team player who thrives in a dynamic environment. The role requires someone capable of quickly mastering new processes and financial systems while effectively managing multiple tasks. A solid grasp of accounting principles and hands-on experience in general ledger functions are required, with prior experience in payroll and accounts payable considered a plus.

What our team is looking for:

Any equivalent combination of education and/or experience likely to provide the required core competencies may be considered. A typical combination that is qualifying may include: 

• An associate degree with major coursework in accounting, finance, or business, or a closely related field; and
• Two (2) years of responsible accounting experience.
• Bachelor's degree preferred.

The City of Sunnyvale is seeking to fill the position of Public Safety Dispatcher with an energetic and highly motivated individual who possesses excellent customer service, technical and interpersonal skills.

 
Under general supervision of the Senior Public Safety Dispatcher, processes emergency and non-emergency calls for service; dispatches police, fire, medical, rescue, animal control or other emergency equipment, by telephone or radio, utilizing complex technical aids, such as computer aided dispatch systems (CAD); and performs related work as required.

The minimum qualifications required for this position are - Graduation from high school or tested equivalent; and Two years of experience dispatching police and/or fire services for a public safety agency utilizing contemporary dispatching technical tools, including computer aided dispatching systems; or successful completion of probation as a Public Safety Dispatcher-in-Training with the City of Sunnyvale.

The City of Sunnyvale provides an excellent benefits package. A complete application packet will consist of a City of Sunnyvale employment application, responses to the required supplemental questions and a current (dated within one year of application) typing certificate verifying 35 or more net words per minute (online typing certificates will not be accepted). The next application review date is March 15, 2024.

For complete information regarding this current opportunity, please visit: Sunnyvale.ca.gov and click on JOBS.

Salary $51.52 - $62.62 Hourly

This recruitment is open on a continuous basis and selections may be made at any time within the process. It is recommended to apply immediately. The review of applications received will occur at the end of each month.  

**To receive consideration for the screening process, candidates must meet the below minimum qualifications:

• Graduation from high school or possession of a GED; 

AND

 

• The equivalent of two (2) years of paid employment experience in public safety dispatching within the past five (5) years of which at least one (1) year included solo status; or

OR

• Five (5) years of current paid employment with a public safety agency or private emergency medical services agency, with high level Computer Aided Dispatch (CAD), radio and/or telephone operation; 

OR

• Successful completion of probationary period as a Public Safety Dispatcher I with the City of Santa Clara.

ACCEPTABLE SUBSTITUTION: Possession of a valid California POST Public Safety Dispatcher Basic certificate, which may be substituted for six (6) months of the solo status experience. Please upload a copy of your certificate. 

The City
The City of Santa Clara is a "full service" city – one of only a few communities in the Bay Area that has its own police, fire, library, recreation, and electric, water, and sewer utilities, as well as all of the other departments and civic amenities expected in a thriving community. Santa Clara is a family-oriented and business-friendly city, led by a city government that has developed an award-winning ethics program and a commitment to fostering public trust. Located in Santa Clara County at the southern tip of San Francisco Bay, about 45 miles south of San Francisco, Santa Clara is a strategic regional hub, convenient to freeways, airports, railroads, expressways, light rail, and other public transportation.

The Department
The men and women of the Santa Clara Police Department take tremendous pride in providing the community with outstanding service through the "Santa Clara Way" of service.  In partnership with the citizens, the team provides law enforcement services with professional and dedicated staff. The team will always identify and resolve problems utilizing all available resources and perform services professionally and with a high level of integrity. To learn more visit our website.   

The Position 
As a Public Safety Dispatcher II, this non-sworn classification dispatches public safety, fire, and emergency medical services out into the community. The successful incumbent will be responsible for receiving incoming calls for police, fire, or medical assistance and dispatch necessary units. This classification is distinguished from the Public Safety Dispatcher I by a broader range of responsibility due to a higher level of experience and training.  

Candidates must attain a passing score on each phase of the examination process to qualify for the Eligible List. A department interview will be required prior to appointment. 

THIS RECRUITMENT MAY BE USED TO FILL MULTIPLE POSITIONS IN THIS, OR OTHER DIVISIONS OR DEPARTMENTS BESDIES THE POSITIONS LISTED BELOW. IF YOU ARE INTERESTED IN EMPLOYMENT IN THIS CLASSIFICATION, YOU SHOULD APPLY TO ENSURE YOU ARE CONSIDERED FOR ADDITIONAL OPPORTUNITIES THAT MAY UTILIZE THE APPLICANTS FROM THIS RECRUITMENT. MEETING THE MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS DOES NOT GUARANTEE ADMITTANCE INTO THE EXAMINATION PROCESS. ONLY THE MOST QUALIFIED CANDIDATES WHO DEMONSTRATE THE BEST COMBINATION OF QUALIFICATIONS IN RELATION TO THE REQUIREMENTS AND DUTIES OF THE POSITION WILL BE INVITED TO TEST OR INTERVIEW. 

 

DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS

This is the journey-level classification in the non-sworn flexibility staffed Public Safety Dispatcher I/II series. Incumbents are expected to work independently and exercise judgment and initiative. Positions at this level receive only occasional instruction or assistance as new or unusual situations arise and are fully aware of the operating procedures and policies of the work unit. This class is distinguished from the class of Public Safety Dispatcher I in that the latter is the entry level class where incumbents are trained on full range of dispatch functions under immediate supervision. This class is distinguished from the Senior Public Safety Dispatcher in that the latter has full responsibility for supervising a shift of Public Safety Dispatchers I/II.

 

 

Typical Duties

 

Each position in this classification may not include all the duties listed below, nor do the examples cover all the duties that may be performed.

• Operates base radio console equipment, transmitting and receiving routine and emergency messages
• Receives emergency and routine requests for services from the public via 9-1-1, alternate emergency lines, and business lines
• Dispatches appropriate emergency vehicles, equipment and personnel in response to those requests, in accordance with established policies and procedures
• Coordinates emergency operations between various departmental personnel and equipment
• Operates data terminals for information pertaining to daily public safety operations, and general emergency services
• Maintains written logs, files, and computer information in the prescribed manner
• Updates computer files and performs other clerical functions and tasks as directed
• Performs other related duties as assigned

 

 

Minimum Qualifications

 

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

• Graduation from high school or possession of a GED; and
• The equivalent of two (2) years of paid employment experience in public safety dispatching within the past five (5) years of which at least one (1) year included solo status; or
• Five (5) years of current paid employment with a public safety agency or private emergency medical services agency, with high level Computer Aided Dispatch (CAD), radio and/or telephone operation; or
• Successful completion of probationary period as a Public Safety Dispatcher I with the City of Santa Clara.

ACCEPTABLE SUBSTITUTIONS

• Possession of a valid California POST Public Safety Dispatcher Basic certificate, which may be substituted for six (6) months of the solo status experience.

DESIRABLE QUALIFICATIONS

• Classroom education involving fire science or law enforcement related studies.

LICENSES/CERTIFICATES

• Possession of a valid California POST Public Safety Dispatcher Basic Certificate and a valid Medical Priorities Dispatching System (MPDS) Certificate are required prior to the completion of the probationary period.

OTHER REQUIREMENTS

Must be able to perform all the essential functions of the job assignment. All candidates will be required to pass a City background investigation, which will include fingerprinting and may include polygraph and/or psychological testing.

PERMANENT CITY EMPLOYEES PREFERENCE POINTS
Current permanent employee candidates who receive a passing score on the examination will have an additional five (5) points added to his/her final score. 

Federal law requires all employees to provide verification of their eligibility to work in this country. Please be informed that the City of Santa Clara will not sponsor, represent, or sign documents related to visa applications/transfers for H1B or any other type of visa which requires an employer application. 
 

 

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

 

Knowledge of:

• General public safety radio and telephone communications systems
• Police and fire emergency procedures
• Primary roads, streets, highways, major buildings, and public facilities within the City's boundaries

Skill in:

• Reading and interpreting maps; and maintaining accurate records

Ability to:

• Read, write, spell, and speak in clear, concise English
• Learn correct telephone answering techniques, policies and procedures
• Operate computer-aided dispatch (CAD) system with sufficient speed and accuracy to document field activity and create calls for service within response criteria guidelines
• Analyze situations quickly and accurately, while taking effective action to assure public safety provider and citizen safety
• Follow verbal and written instructions
• Communicate clearly and distinctly using radio and telephone equipment
• Maintain composure and work accurately in emergency situations
• Work in a team-based environment and achieve common goals
• Establish and maintain tactful, courteous, and effective working relationships with those contacted during the course of work, including the general public
• Work in a confined area, wearing a headset which restricts physical movement about the work area
• Accurately enter information into the CAD system while simultaneously receiving information by phone or radio
• Retrieve data from CAD terminal or other keyboard device, maintain appropriate documentation of previous events, details, and conversations
• Work in a highly structured environment where all communications are recorded or documented and reviewed as public record
• Handle multiple priorities and organize workload
• Extract information or data from other computer systems
• View multiple video display terminals for extended periods of time in low variable light conditions
• Distinguish and interpret the meaning of colors on video display terminals
• Distinguish and comprehend simultaneous communications from several sources
• Work continuously or uninterrupted as required, standing or sitting for extended periods of time
• Perform with a high standard of customer service, professional conduct, and civic responsibility
• Use emergency medical questioning techniques and provide medical instructions via telephone when required
• Type at a net rate of 35 wpm on a computer keyboard

Additional Information: 
You must answer all job-specific questions in order to be considered for this vacancy or your application will be deemed incomplete and withheld from further consideration. Applications must be filled out completely (i.e. do not write “see resume or personnel file.”). To receive consideration for the screening process, candidates must submit a complete City Application and meet the below minimum qualifications:

• Graduation from high school or possession of a GED; and
• The equivalent of two (2) years of paid employment experience in public safety dispatching within the past five (5) years of which at least one (1) year included solo status; or
• Five (5) years of current paid employment with a public safety agency or private emergency medical services agency, with high level Computer Aided Dispatch (CAD), radio and/or telephone operation; or
• Successful completion of probationary period as a Public Safety Dispatcher I with the City of Santa Clara.

ACCEPTABLE SUBSTITUTION: Possession of a valid California POST Public Safety Dispatcher Basic certificate, which may be substituted for six (6) months of the solo status experience. Please upload a copy of your certificate. 

Incomplete applications will not be accepted. Application packets may be submitted online through the “Apply Now” feature on the job announcement at www.santaclaraca.gov.  This position is continuous: Applications will be reviewed at the end of each month for consideration to the position.  If you are interested in applying you are encouraged to apply as soon as possible, before the position is closed.

The Department: 
The Finance Department administers the financial affairs of the City of Santa Clara, including City-owned public utilities. The department is comprised of five divisions, Administrative Services, Budget and Treasury, Accounting, Municipal Services, and Purchasing. Together these divisions carry out the mission of the Finance Department to ensure that the financial/fiscal activities of the City are performed, recorded, and presented in compliance with professional and ethical standards.  
 
The Position: 
Positions in this class are flexibly staffed, and are frequently filled by advancement from the Accounting Technician I class, or when filled through recruitment, require additional experience.  The appointing authority will approve appointment or promotion based on the employee's demonstrated ability to perform the full range of duties for the class and meet the qualification standards for the class.  Incumbents within this class are distinguished from the Accounting Technician I by exhibiting a higher level of judgment and independence in performing the full range of duties as assigned.
 
As an as-needed employee, this is an "at-will" position and there is no guarantee of hours. Hours are limited to 999 in a fiscal year or 960 hours in a fiscal year for retired CalPERS annuitants.

 

THIS RECRUITMENT MAY BE USED TO FILL MULTIPLE POSITIONS IN THIS, OR OTHER DIVISIONS OR DEPARTMENTS BESIDES THE POSITIONS LISTED BELOW.  IF YOU ARE INTERESTED IN EMPLOYMENT IN THIS CLASSIFICATION, YOU SHOULD APPLY TO ENSURE YOU ARE CONSIDERED FOR ADDITIONAL OPPORTUNITIES THAT MAY UTILIZE THE APPLICANTS FROM THIS RECRUITMENT. MEETING THE MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS DOES NOT GUARENTEE ADMITTANCE INTO THE EXAMINATION PROCESS.  ONLY THE MOST QUALIFIED CANDIDATES WHO DEMONSTRATE THE BEST COMBINATION OF QUALIFICATIONS IN RELATION TO THE REQUIREMENTS AND DUTIES OF THE POSITION WILL BE INVITED TO TEST OR INTERVIEW. 
 

Typical Duties

Each position in this classification may not include all the duties listed below, nor do the examples coverall duties that may be performed.

General Accounting:
 Under supervision:
 •  Processes the City's financial transactions in a timely manner in compliance with laws, regulations, and City policy working closely with staff in all City departments and outside City contacts; Performs reconciliation of various accounting and banking activity;
 • Reviews the documentation submitted by operating departments for compliance and correct general ledger  account coding and recommends corrective action, up to and including journal entry preparation;
 • Reviews documentation for Miscellaneous Accounts Receivable in order to generate invoices using on-line billing system;
 • Generates billing statements, demand letters and collection agency information;
 • Works with payers to develop payment plans;
 • Issues tags to departments for fixed asset purchases;
 • Uses computer applications, including electronic spreadsheets and word processing software, prepares reports, memos, and supporting documentation;
 • Maintains accurate paper and electronic documentation, including files;
 • Sorts, indexes, and files materials, using a variety of standard filing methods;
 • May represent the City of Santa Clara in Small Claim actions;
 • Performs other related duties as assigned.

 

Accounts Payable:
 Under supervision
 • Reviews payment requests from departments for compliance with City internal control policies including contract management requirements;
 • Reviews invoices to determine appropriate coding for sales & use tax;
 • Enters accounts payable  vouchers online and verify input against source documents;
 • Enters and loads spreadsheet vouchers;
 • Works with City staff to accurately process Purchase Card transactions;
 • Provides assistance to staff in using the Insurance certificate tracking system;
 • Works closely with vendors, payers, employees, and other agencies;
 • Reviews the documentation submitted by operating departments for compliance and correct GL account coding and recommends corrective action;
 • Uses computer applications, including electronic spreadsheets and word processing software, prepares reports, memos, and supporting documentation;
 • Maintains accurate paper and electronic documentation, including files;
 • Sorts, indexes, and files materials, using a variety of standard filing methods ;and
 • Performs other related duties as assigned.

 

Payroll:
 Under supervision
 • Enters payroll transactions online and verifies input against the source documents;
 • Accurately follows established business process documentation;
 • Using queries and reports, reviews transactions for compliance with City policies, procedures and Memoranda of Understanding;
 • Works with City employees and departments, as well as other outside City contacts;
 • Analyze original documents and determine system entries needed;
 • Reconciles employee deductions to the GL;
 • Processes levies and judgments in accordance with laws and regulations;
 • Uses queries and computer applications to maintain control totals of base salaries City wide and balance salaries to payroll on a biweekly basis;
 • Using computer applications, including electronic spreadsheets and word processing software, reconciles biweekly or monthly benefits and deductions and prepares reports, memos, supporting documentation and payment requests;
 • Maintains accurate paper and electronic documentation, including files;
 • Sorts, indexes, and files materials, using a variety of standard filing methods; and
 • Performs other related duties as assigned.

 

Minimum Qualifications

Education and Experience: 
• Graduation from high school or possession of a GED; and
 • Completion of thirty (30) semester units or forty-five (45) quarter units from an accredited college or university including at least six (6) semester or nine (9) quarter units, which must be in Accounting or Bookkeeping; and
 • Two (2) years of work experience in Finance/Accounting (accounts receivable, accounts payable, payroll, or general accounting); and
 • Experience with  electronic spreadsheet and word processing programs; and
 • Experience with on-line financial and/or payroll systems; and
 • Ten-key by touch.

Desirable Qualifications:
 • Experience with PeopleSoft Financial or Human Resources/Payroll Systems.

Possible Substitutions:
 • Additional qualifying experience may be substituted for the required education on the basis of one (1) year of experience for fifteen (15) semester units.   (There is no substitution allowed for the requirement for six (6) semester or nine (9) quarter units in Accounting and Bookkeeping.)

Licenses:
 Possession of a valid California Class C driver's license is desirable.
 
 OTHER REQUIREMENTS
 • Must be able to perform all of the essential functions of the job assignment.
 • May be required to work unusual hours and weekends in the performance of their duties.
 
Federal law requires all employees to provide verification of their eligibility to work in this country. Please be informed that the City of Santa Clara will not sponsor, represent, or sign documents related to visa applications/transfers for H1B or any other type of visa which requires an employer application.  

 

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

Knowledge of:
 • Accounting methods and procedures;
 • Office machines and common office equipment including a personal computer, copier and facsimile machine;
 • Accounting transaction processing in the payroll, accounts payable, general accounting, or cash and bank reconciliation areas;
 • Computer applications (such as Peoplesoft, QuickBooks, and Microsoft Word, Access, Excel, and Powerpoint), databases, spreadsheets including data management;
 • Financial and payroll software systems;
 • Research methods and techniques; and
 • Office safety practices, procedures and standards.
 
Ability to:
 • Process financial data and make arithmetical computations rapidly and accurately;
 • Analyze and interpret financial and accounting records;
 • Interpret and apply administrative and departmental policies, laws and rules;
 • Understand basic algebraic relationships;
 • Evaluate situations, identify problems, make logical decisions and follow through on resolution;
 • Research, analyze and investigate work related issues;
 • Operate standard office equipment;
 • Use personal computers and applicable software;
 • Interact with City employees on various accounting related issues;
 • Provide excellent customer service;
 • Establish and maintain effective working relationships with those contacted in the course of    
   work;
 • Work in a team-based environment and achieve common goals;
 • Communicate clearly, tactfully and effectively, both orally and in writing;
 • Understand, follow and carry out oral and written instructions;
 • Spell correctly and use proper English grammar;
 • Perform tasks without being told, working in the best interest of the City;
 • Effectively handle multiple priorities, organize workload, and meet strict deadlines;
 • Analyze work processes and suggest work improvements;
 • Using computer applications, prepare spreadsheets, memos and procedural documentation;
 • Type from clear copy at a net rate of not less than 25 words per minute on a computer    keyboard; and
 • Walk or stand for extended periods of time and bend, stoop, reach, carry, climb, and lift as necessary to perform assigned duties.
 
Additional Information: 
You must answer all job-specific questions in order to be considered for this vacancy or your application will be deemed incomplete and withheld from further consideration. Applications must be filled out completely (i.e. do not write “see resume or personnel file.”). To receive consideration for the screening process, candidates must submit a 1) Resume Incomplete applications will not be accepted. Application packets may be submitted online through the “Apply Now” feature on the job announcement at www.santaclaraca.gov. This position is continuous or open until filled: Applications will be reviewed on a bi-weekly basis for consideration to the position.  If you are interested in applying you are encouraged to apply as soon as possible, before the position is closed.
 
The City of Santa Clara is an equal opportunity employer. Applicants for all job openings will be considered without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, disability, veteran status or any other consideration made unlawful under any federal, state or local laws. The City of Santa Clara is committed to offering reasonable accommodations to job applicants with disabilities. If you need assistance or an accommodation due to a disability, please contact us at (408) 615-2080 or HumanResources@santaclaraca.gov.

 

The Department: 
The Finance Department administers the financial affairs of the City of Santa Clara, including City-owned public utilities. The department is comprised of five divisions, Administrative Services, Budget and Treasury, Accounting, Municipal Services, and Purchasing. Together these divisions carry out the mission of the Finance Department to ensure that the financial/fiscal activities of the City are performed, recorded, and presented in compliance with professional and ethical standards.  
 
The Position: 
Positions in this class are flexibly staffed, and are frequently filled by advancement from the Accounting Technician I class, or when filled through recruitment, require additional experience.  The appointing authority will approve appointment or promotion based on the employee's demonstrated ability to perform the full range of duties for the class and meet the qualification standards for the class.  Incumbents within this class are distinguished from the Accounting Technician I by exhibiting a higher level of judgment and independence in performing the full range of duties as assigned.
 
As an as-needed employee, this is an "at-will" position and there is no guarantee of hours. Hours are limited to 999 in a fiscal year or 960 hours in a fiscal year for retired CalPERS annuitants.

 

 THIS RECRUITMENT MAY BE USED TO FILL MULTIPLE POSITIONS IN THIS, OR OTHER DIVISIONS OR DEPARTMENTS BESIDES THE POSITIONS LISTED BELOW.  IF YOU ARE INTERESTED IN EMPLOYMENT IN THIS CLASSIFICATION, YOU SHOULD APPLY TO ENSURE YOU ARE CONSIDERED FOR ADDITIONAL OPPORTUNITIES THAT MAY UTILIZE THE APPLICANTS FROM THIS RECRUITMENT. MEETING THE MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS DOES NOT GUARENTEE ADMITTANCE INTO THE EXAMINATION PROCESS.  ONLY THE MOST QUALIFIED CANDIDATES WHO DEMONSTRATE THE BEST COMBINATION OF QUALIFICATIONS IN RELATION TO THE REQUIREMENTS AND DUTIES OF THE POSITION WILL BE INVITED TO TEST OR INTERVIEW.

Typical Duties

Each position in this classification may not include all the duties listed below, nor do the examples coverall duties that may be performed.

General Accounting:
 Under supervision:
 •  Processes the City's financial transactions in a timely manner in compliance with laws, regulations, and City policy working closely with staff in all City departments and outside City contacts; Performs reconciliation of various accounting and banking activity;
 • Reviews the documentation submitted by operating departments for compliance and correct general ledger  account coding and recommends corrective action, up to and including journal entry preparation;
 • Reviews documentation for Miscellaneous Accounts Receivable in order to generate invoices using on-line billing system;
 • Generates billing statements, demand letters and collection agency information;
 • Works with payers to develop payment plans;
 • Issues tags to departments for fixed asset purchases;
 • Uses computer applications, including electronic spreadsheets and word processing software, prepares reports, memos, and supporting documentation;
 • Maintains accurate paper and electronic documentation, including files;
 • Sorts, indexes, and files materials, using a variety of standard filing methods;
 • May represent the City of Santa Clara in Small Claim actions;
 • Performs other related duties as assigned.

 

Accounts Payable:
 Under supervision
 • Reviews payment requests from departments for compliance with City internal control policies including contract management requirements;
 • Reviews invoices to determine appropriate coding for sales & use tax;
 • Enters accounts payable  vouchers online and verify input against source documents;
 • Enters and loads spreadsheet vouchers;
 • Works with City staff to accurately process Purchase Card transactions;
 • Provides assistance to staff in using the Insurance certificate tracking system;
 • Works closely with vendors, payers, employees, and other agencies;
 • Reviews the documentation submitted by operating departments for compliance and correct GL account coding and recommends corrective action;
 • Uses computer applications, including electronic spreadsheets and word processing software, prepares reports, memos, and supporting documentation;
 • Maintains accurate paper and electronic documentation, including files;
 • Sorts, indexes, and files materials, using a variety of standard filing methods ;and
 • Performs other related duties as assigned.

 

Payroll:
 Under supervision
 • Enters payroll transactions online and verifies input against the source documents;
 • Accurately follows established business process documentation;
 • Using queries and reports, reviews transactions for compliance with City policies, procedures and Memoranda of Understanding;
 • Works with City employees and departments, as well as other outside City contacts;
 • Analyze original documents and determine system entries needed;
 • Reconciles employee deductions to the GL;
 • Processes levies and judgments in accordance with laws and regulations;
 • Uses queries and computer applications to maintain control totals of base salaries City wide and balance salaries to payroll on a biweekly basis;
 • Using computer applications, including electronic spreadsheets and word processing software, reconciles biweekly or monthly benefits and deductions and prepares reports, memos, supporting documentation and payment requests;
 • Maintains accurate paper and electronic documentation, including files;
 • Sorts, indexes, and files materials, using a variety of standard filing methods; and
 • Performs other related duties as assigned.

 

Minimum Qualifications

Education and Experience: 
• Graduation from high school or possession of a GED; and
 • Completion of thirty (30) semester units or forty-five (45) quarter units from an accredited college or university including at least six (6) semester or nine (9) quarter units, which must be in Accounting or Bookkeeping; and
 • Two (2) years of work experience in Finance/Accounting (accounts receivable, accounts payable, payroll, or general accounting); and
 • Experience with  electronic spreadsheet and word processing programs; and
 • Experience with on-line financial and/or payroll systems; and
 • Ten-key by touch.

Desirable Qualifications:
 • Experience with PeopleSoft Financial or Human Resources/Payroll Systems.

Possible Substitutions:
 • Additional qualifying experience may be substituted for the required education on the basis of one (1) year of experience for fifteen (15) semester units.   (There is no substitution allowed for the requirement for six (6) semester or nine (9) quarter units in Accounting and Bookkeeping.)

Licenses:
 Possession of a valid California Class C driver's license is desirable.
 
 OTHER REQUIREMENTS
 • Must be able to perform all of the essential functions of the job assignment.
 • May be required to work unusual hours and weekends in the performance of their duties.
 
Federal law requires all employees to provide verification of their eligibility to work in this country. Please be informed that the City of Santa Clara will not sponsor, represent, or sign documents related to visa applications/transfers for H1B or any other type of visa which requires an employer application.  

 

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

Knowledge of:
 • Accounting methods and procedures;
 • Office machines and common office equipment including a personal computer, copier and facsimile machine;
 • Accounting transaction processing in the payroll, accounts payable, general accounting, or cash and bank reconciliation areas;
 • Computer applications (such as Peoplesoft, QuickBooks, and Microsoft Word, Access, Excel, and Powerpoint), databases, spreadsheets including data management;
 • Financial and payroll software systems;
 • Research methods and techniques; and
 • Office safety practices, procedures and standards.
 
Ability to:
 • Process financial data and make arithmetical computations rapidly and accurately;
 • Analyze and interpret financial and accounting records;
 • Interpret and apply administrative and departmental policies, laws and rules;
 • Understand basic algebraic relationships;
 • Evaluate situations, identify problems, make logical decisions and follow through on resolution;
 • Research, analyze and investigate work related issues;
 • Operate standard office equipment;
 • Use personal computers and applicable software;
 • Interact with City employees on various accounting related issues;
 • Provide excellent customer service;
 • Establish and maintain effective working relationships with those contacted in the course of    
   work;
 • Work in a team-based environment and achieve common goals;
 • Communicate clearly, tactfully and effectively, both orally and in writing;
 • Understand, follow and carry out oral and written instructions;
 • Spell correctly and use proper English grammar;
 • Perform tasks without being told, working in the best interest of the City;
 • Effectively handle multiple priorities, organize workload, and meet strict deadlines;
 • Analyze work processes and suggest work improvements;
 • Using computer applications, prepare spreadsheets, memos and procedural documentation;
 • Type from clear copy at a net rate of not less than 25 words per minute on a computer    keyboard; and
 • Walk or stand for extended periods of time and bend, stoop, reach, carry, climb, and lift as necessary to perform assigned duties.
 
Additional Information: 
You must answer all job-specific questions in order to be considered for this vacancy or your application will be deemed incomplete and withheld from further consideration. Applications must be filled out completely (i.e. do not write “see resume or personnel file.”). To receive consideration for the screening process, candidates must submit a 1) Resume Incomplete applications will not be accepted. Application packets may be submitted online through the “Apply Now” feature on the job announcement at www.santaclaraca.gov. This position is continuous or open until filled: Applications will be reviewed on a bi-weekly basis for consideration to the position.  If you are interested in applying you are encouraged to apply as soon as possible, before the position is closed.
 
The City of Santa Clara is an equal opportunity employer. Applicants for all job openings will be considered without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, disability, veteran status or any other consideration made unlawful under any federal, state or local laws. The City of Santa Clara is committed to offering reasonable accommodations to job applicants with disabilities. If you need assistance or an accommodation due to a disability, please contact us at (408) 615-2080 or HumanResources@santaclaraca.gov.