City of Seattle, WA

Position Description

Seattle Public Utilities (SPU) is seeking two highly motivated and experienced accounting professionals to join our team as Principal Accountants! 

This position is a primary owner for significant areas such as the general ledger, fixed assets, debt, leases and other key business cycles. You'll be responsible for producing monthly financial reports, making recommendations to improve accounting processes and systems, interpreting accounting pronouncements, complying with policies and procedures, and providing critical support and guidance to the team and management. Additionally, you'll maintain effective internal controls and ensure accounting activities are GAAP/GASB compliant. This position reports to and works closely with the Accounting Manager in SPU's Accounting Division. 

About Seattle Public Utilities: Seattle Public Utilities (SPU) is a Community Centered Utility whose mission is to foster healthy people, environment, and economy by partnering with our community to equitably manage water and waste resources for today and future generations. We deliver high quality, vital services, across four major lines of business: providing water, solid waste, drainage and wastewater services for Seattle residents and businesses. In addition, SPU provides drinking water for 1.5 million regional customers in Seattle and other municipalities. Our customers depend on us to deliver high quality, reliable, and cost-conscious utility services and to achieve the highest benefits possible for every investment we make.

For more information about Seattle Public Utilities (SPU), please visit:

• SPU Workplace Expectations (Download PDF reader) (Download PDF reader) 
• Strategic Business Plan
• Shape Our Water Plan

SPU commits to Our City Values and Race and Social Justice as core principles that guide our work. We actively take steps to dismantle systemic racism and increase service equity. We value diverse life experiences and strive to create a workplace that is welcoming to all. We take steps to be inclusive and equitable in our recruiting, hiring and promotional opportunities.

Why join us?

We know work isn’t only about what you do, it’s also about who you work for and with! SPU provides a fun and family-friendly work environment that supports a work life balance, including:

• Hybrid work schedule opportunities
• Family-friendly and multicultural work environment 
• Generous benefits package 
• Free public transportation options 
• City pension plan with employer/employee contributions 
• Growth potential and advancement opportunities 

Job Responsibilities

• Oversee accurate financial statements (monthly/annual close) and ensure strong internal controls (identifying high-risk transactions).
• Manage daily accounting operations efficiently and develop/implement accounting policies for consistent application.
• Interpret and apply new accounting guidelines (GASB) while designing & delivering financial reports meeting business needs.
• Lead & review audit workpapers, perform complex reconciliations, and manage a team of accountants (providing guidance & support).
• Conduct research on complex accounting issues, prepare audit schedules/analyses, and ensure adherence to GAAP, GASB, and City practices.
• Develop periodic financial analyses, lead discussions with Finance and leadership, and prioritize/manage projects with strong organizational skills.
• Leverage strong analytical & strategic thinking for insightful financial analysis.
• Demonstrate initiative, problem-solving, and excellent communication & collaboration skills.
• Possess extensive knowledge of accounting systems (e.g., PeopleSoft) and advanced Excel skills.

Please note this job posting is not designed to cover or contain the complete listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change as conditions require. 

Qualifications

Education: Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Business Administration or related field (requires satisfactory completion of at least 24 semester hours or 36 quarter credit units in accounting with no substitution allowed) and/or professional certification as a CPA.

Experience: Four years professional experience in accounting, auditing, financial analysis, or related work with one year experience at the senior level.

Education/Experience Equivalency: A combination of education and/or training and/or experience which provides an equivalent background required to perform the work of the class may be substituted.

Additional Information

The ideal candidate should possess: 

• Proven track record of financial statement preparation, analysis, and interpretation
• Experience researching complex accounting issues and developing/implementing accounting procedures
• Demonstrated ability to lead and mentor junior and senior accountants
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with a keen eye for detail
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, with the ability to present complex financial information in non-technical terms
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment and take initiative
• Extensive knowledge of accounting and financial reporting systems like PeopleSoft or similar
• Ability to work effectively within a diverse team

The full salary range for this position is: $45.68 - $53.20 Hourly 

How to Apply:

• Submit complete City of Seattle online application
• Upload your current resume that illustrates your related skills and abilities, AND
• Include a cover letter that addresses your knowledge and experience related to this position

This hiring process involves a background check of conviction and arrest records in compliance with Seattle’s Fair Chance Employment Ordinance, SMC 14.17. Applicants will be provided an opportunity to explain or correct background information. 

Workplace Environment (Telework Expectation): This position allows for the flexibility of a hybrid work schedule. Employees will be required to come into the office twice a week. Individual schedules will be agreed upon by the employee and their supervisor.

Benefits: The City of Seattle offers a comprehensive benefits package including vacation, holiday, and sick leave as well as medical, dental, vision, life and long-term disability insurance for employees and their dependents. More information about employee benefits is available on the City's website at: https://www.seattle.gov/human-resources/benefits/employees-and-covered-family-members/most-employees-plans

Who may apply: The City of Seattle encourages people of all backgrounds to apply, including people of color, immigrants, refugees, women, LGBTQ, people with disabilities, veterans, and those with diverse life experience. This position is open to all qualified candidates that meet the minimum qualifications. The City of Seattle values diverse perspectives and life experiences. Applicants will be considered regardless of race, color, creed, national origin, ancestry, sex, marital status, disability, religious or political affiliation, age, sexual orientation, or gender identity. 

Questions? Contact Erika Monroe at Erika.Monroe@seattle.gov 

The City of Seattle offers a comprehensive benefits package including vacation, holiday and sick leave as well as medical, dental, vision, life and long-term disability insurance for employees and their dependents.

More information about employee benefits is available on the City's website at: 

"Most" Employees Plans - Human Resources | seattle.gov