HomeMy WebLinkAbout#10 - Accountant Revised Job DescriptionSTAFF REPORT
DATE: April 17, 2018
CONSENT
ITEM #: 10
TO: Mayor and Council
AGENDA ITEM: Revised Accountant Job Description
SUBMITTED BY: Kristina Handt, City Administrator
BACKGROUND:
The Council adopted the job description for the accountant at their February 7, 2017 meeting. At
that time the city planned to use a consultant finance director so the accountant position was
drafted to report to the City Administrator.
ISSUE BEFORE COUNCIL:
Should the City revise the account job description to change the reporting structure?
PROPOSAL:
Since the City will be hiring a Finance Director as a city employee and moving away from the
contracted position, the accountant job description is proposed to be revised so that the accountant
reports to the Finance Director rather than the City Administrator.
FISCAL IMPACT:
NA
RECOMMENDATION:
If removed from the consent agenda:
“Motion to revise the Accountant Job Description to report to the Finance Director.”
ATTACHMENTS:
• Job Description
City of Lake Elmo
Job Title: Accountant
Department: Finance
Status: Full-time regular position
Benefits: Qualifies for full-time benefits
Reporting Relationship: Reports to City AdministratorFinance Director
Supervisory Duties: This position has no supervisory duties.
Position Details: To perform a variety of accounting functions including accounts payable,
payroll, utility billing, account reconciliations, annual budget preparation, year-end audit
preparation, and other duties as assigned.
Accounts Payable:
Responsible for processing accounts payable
Responsible for Department filing and reporting
Coordinate with Departments to ensure vouchers are properly coded and
approved for payment
Payroll:
Responsible for processing payroll and all state and federal related reporting
General knowledge of benefits and new hire requirements
Responsible for gathering of timesheets, data entry of time, and issuance of
electronic transfers to employees
Utility Billing:
Provide customer service on-site, front counter, e-mail inquiries and phone calls
Responsible for utility billing processing: including processing bills, payments and
adjustments as needed
Complete assessment and utility search inquiries
Assist the Finance Director in preparing the annual assessment report for the
County
Working with Public Works as new meters are set-up and meters are shut off
Annual Financial Preparation:
Assist with year-end audit schedules and preparation
Assist with budget preparation
Complete monthly reconciliation of Developer Escrow
While these are the primary focus of the position, we believe strongly in teamwork and
employees will be called upon to perform a variety of duties as part of their role with the
City.
Position Requirements
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:
Demonstrates ability to prioritize tasks, solve problems and meet deadlines
Works well with internal staff and provides them with accurate and timely financial
reports and problem resolution when appropriate
Makes minimal errors completing recurring entries, bank reconciliations, monthly
billings, calculations, subsidiary spreadsheets, accounts payable and payroll
processing
Ability to perform with minimal supervision
Contributes to the team effort and positive image of the Department by consistently
providing a high level of support to internal and external customers
Promptly resolves accounting problems in a constructive and well-documented manner
Maintain internal and external relationships via in-person, phone, or e-mail with
residents, vendors, auditors, staff, realty agents and bank professionals
Education: four-year degree in business, liberal arts, or accounting
Requirements: Minimum of two years’ experience in payroll, accounts payable and general
ledger experience
Process basic computers skills, including a good knowledge of and experience using:
• E-mail and Microsoft Outlook
• Web Browsing
• Basic Computer Mapping (Google Maps, Bing)
• Adobe PDF Viewer
• Microsoft Office Products
Desired Qualifications:
Education and experience in accounting and finance
Ability to exercise independent judgement and discretion in decision-making
Ability to effectively problem solve using analytical and strategic thinking
Knowledge of principles and practices of local government
Advanced computer software experience and proficiency in Word, Xcel and other
financial software packages
Physical and Mental Requirements: Positions in this job typically require: sitting,
feeling, manual dexterity, grasping, talking, hearing, typing, and seeing. This position
encounters unexpected and prolonged workdays and stress and pressure from dealing with
emotional issues and conflicts. There is also sustained exposure to computer keyboards and
video screens. This positon is generally light-duty and may require the exertion up to 20
pounds of force on occasion and the ability to lift, carry, push, pull and move objects. The
individual may encounter unexpected and prolonged workdays and stress and pressure from
dealing with emotional issues and conflicts.
**The physical demands described here are representative to those that must be met by an
employee to successfully perform the essential functions of the job. Reasonable
accommodations can be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential
functions.
Working Conditions: Most work is performed in an office setting
Competencies Common to All City Positions:
• Develop, maintain a thorough working knowledge of, and comply with all departmental
and applicable City policies and procedures
• Demonstration by personal example the spirit of service, excellence, and integrity
expected from all staff
• Develop respectful and cooperative working relationships with co-workers, including
willing assistance to newer staff so job responsibilities can be performed with
confidence as quickly as possible
• Confer regularly with and keep immediate supervisor informed of all important matters
which pertain to the applicable job functions and responsibilities
• Represent the City of Lake Elmo in a professional manner to the public, outside
contacts and constituencies
**The work environment characteristics described here are representative to those an
employee encounters while performing essential functions of this job. Reasonable
accommodations can be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the
essential functions.