Ramsey County, MN
Accountant 1 - Payroll
Ramsey County, MN, Saint Paul, Minnesota, United States, 55130
Salary :
$55,321.50 - $82,031.03 Annually
Location :
(Metro Square) Saint Paul, MN
Job Type:
Full Time
Remote Employment:
Flexible/Hybrid
Job Number:
2024-01013
Department:
21B01-Finance/Admin
Opening Date:
09/24/2024
Closing Date:
10/8/2024 11:59 PM Central
Union:
Unrepresented
Salary Plan:
02A
Salary Grade:
23C
FLSA Status:
nonexempt
Basic Function
The current vacancy is in the Finance Department. The eligibility list created by this vacancy may be used to hire other vacancies in the department or County.
The primary focus of this position will be working within the payroll team.
To review and analyze accounting transactions, prepare financial reports, maintain records of the financial activity of the department or units to which assigned and ensure compliance with legal guidelines and generally accepted accounting principles; and to perform related duties as assigned. (This is the entry-level class in the Accountant classification series. Positions in this classification perform accounting duties that require knowledge of accounting principles but do not require previous accounting experience in their application. Work assignments at this level provide the opportunity to obtain the knowledge and proficiency of skills and abilities required for advancement to the Accountant 2 level.)
Flexible WorkplaceThis position is identified under the designation of 'flex work eligible', meaning that the employee can formally opt to be in-office full-time or work a flex schedule in which at least two-days per week are performed in office and other days can be performed in a remote-first environment. Regardless of selection, the position carries expectations regarding on-site responsibilities and will require schedule flexibility beyond the minimum expectations set forth in the county's flexible workplace policy. To view Ramsey County's Flexible Workplace policy, go to:
Flexible Workplace policy
If an internal candidate is selected, salary will be set in accordance with the personnel rules (i.e., promotion, transfer, or voluntary reduction).
To view or print a copy of the complete Ramsey County job (class) description for this position, go to: Once at this page, you can browse the alphabetical list or search for a job description.Examples of Work Performed
Prepare financial reports, operating statements, accounts payable statements, accounts receivable statements and similar periodic reports for management by reviewing, analyzing and compiling financial information in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles.Assemble and prepare budget information by analyzing accounting records and reports and estimating revenues and expenses.Review and approve claims, invoices, purchase orders, accounts payables and other documents relating to receipts, expenditures, transfers and other transactions to ensure that transactions are accurate and in conformance with established policies, contracts, appropriate accounting practices, and that adequate funds are available, initiate corrective actions as necessary.Maintain ledger, journals and other financial control records by classifying and recording transactions in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles; establish internal controls, reconcile subsidiary ledgers and recommend corrective actions as necessary.Conduct financial analyses of purchase of service contracts or other financial programs by reviewing and evaluating financial records, reports, contracts, proposals or similar source documents in order to provide accurate and timely information for decision making by management.Participate in contract development by conducting preliminary audits on new outside contractors, provide technical accounting assistance to contractors and perform financial evaluations on proposed contracts.Prepare grant budgets and the necessary budget adjustments in order to properly fund and control grant awards; prepare the necessary monthly/quarterly report of financial or statistical data to funding agencies.Respond to requests for information from auditors or other external funding sources concerning the financial activities of a county program.Operate computer equipment; produce, obtain or analyze computer-generated information in performing the accounting duties assigned.Provide training or direction to other accounting support staff.
(The work assigned to a position in this classification may not include all possible tasks in this work and does not limit the assignment of any additional tasks in this classification. Regular attendance according to the position's management approved work schedule is required.)
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS : 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 8, 10.
Minimum Qualifications
Education:
Bachelor's Degree in Accounting, Business Administration, Public Administration or a related field.
Experience:
One year of accounting or related experience.
Substitution:
Equivalent combination of education and experience.
Certifications/Licensure:
None.
Exam/Screening Process Information
The examination process will consist of the following section with each section weighted as indicated:Training and Experience Rating = 100%The examination for Accountant 1 will consist of a training and experience rating, comprised of the questions in the attached supplemental questionnaire. Not all applicants who meet the minimum qualifications will pass the training and experience rating. The rating on this supplemental questionnaire will depend on your answers to the questions - do not mark "see resume" or "see work history" as a response. Please answer all your questions clearly and completely. Failure to respond could affect your score and final rank on this examination.
Eligible List
:
The names of all applicants who filed a properly completed application and passed the examination/screening process shall be placed on the eligible list for an employment opportunity as an Accountant 1. This list will be certified to the appointing authority which may use this list to conduct interviews to fill a vacancy. Candidates will remain on the list for 30 days or until hired, whichever occurs first. A notice will be sent to applicants at the time the eligible list is posted, informing them that the list has been certified and their status.
Veteran's Preference
: This is a classified position requiring an open, competitive selection process.
Veteran's Preference points will be applied after a candidate passes the examination process. Applicants who are eligible for veteran's preference should update their veteran's DD214, and other supporting documents, and submit them as an attachment at the time of application.
Criminal Background Checks
:
All employment offers are conditioned upon the applicant passing a criminal background check. Convictions are not an automatic bar to employment. Each case is considered on its individual merits and the type of work sought. However, making false statements or withholding information will cause you to be barred from employment, or removed from employment.
E-Verify Participation
:
Ramsey County participates in the federal E-Verify program. This means that Ramsey County will provide the Social Security Administration (SSA) and, if necessary, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), with information from each new employee's Form I-9 to confirm work authorization. If the Government cannot confirm that you are authorized to work, Ramsey County is required to give you written instructions and an opportunity to contact DHS and/or the SSA before taking adverse action against you, including terminating your employment. Employers may not use E-Verify to pre-screen job applicants and may not limit or influence the choice of documents you present for use on the Form I-9.
Equal Opportunity Employer
:
Ramsey County provides equal access to employment, programs, and services without regard to race, color, creed, religion, age, sex (except when sex is a Bona Fide Occupational Qualification), disability, familial or marital status, sexual orientation or gender identity, public assistance status, place of residence, political affiliation, or national origin.
Ramsey County is deeply committed to advancing racial equity and promoting diversity and inclusion within all areas of its workforce. The county strives being equitable, inclusive, transparent, respectful, and impactful in how we serve and engage with residents, as well as Ramsey County employees. Advancing racial equity ensures all people who need access to opportunities and services we provide, will receive them. Racial equity is achieved when race can no longer be used to predict life outcomes, and outcomes for all are improved.
To print a paper application for this posting click You will need to print this posting AND answer the supplemental questions associated with this exam and submit them with your completed paper application.
For further information regarding this posting, please contact
Ramsey County provides a wide range of employee benefits to support health, well-being, and work/life balance. Benefits eligibility can vary depending on union status/contract language. A summary of benefits is provided below. Detailed information is available for review atMedical, dental and vision insurance
The County contributes a bargained percentage to the medical and dental monthly premiumEmployees choose from four enrollment tiers: Single, Employee + legally married spouse, Employee + Child(ren), FamilyBlue Cross Blue Shield Medical insurance - three plan options including a High Deductible Plan with a Health Saving Account offered. Earn up to $20/month in electronic gift cards for each enrolled employee or spouse for wellness activityMetLife Dental Insurance - two plan options offeredVSP Vision Insurance - Advantage Plan offered
Pre-tax Benefit Program
Pre-tax medical, dental, vision monthly premium deduction optionDependent and Health Care Flexible Spending AccountsCounty monthly contribution to a Health Savings Account for employees who elect the High Deductible medical plan
Paid time off
Vacation hours, accrued based on years of service, ranging from 12 to 25 days per year (pro-rated for part-time employees)11 scheduled holidays and one floating holidayUp to three weeks of 100% paid parental leave, plus additional use of sick time as noted belowSick hours accrued at a rate of three weeks per year, which can be used for medical and dental care; injury or illness for you, your spouse or children; the birth or adoption of a child (up to 80 hours) or the death of a family member (up to 40 hours)Wellness incentive allows conversion of unused sick time to vacation or pay
Retirement benefits
Pension - The county contributes at least 7.5% of your salary to your pension, depending on bargaining unit. Unlike other retirement investments, pension payments are a lifetime benefit once you start collecting paymentsNew employees become vested after five years. For the Police and Fire union, employees are vested after 10 yearsDeferred compensation - 457(b) account with employer matchHealth Care Savings Plan - all benefits-eligible employees contribute 1% of gross regular salary to a Health Care Savings Plan account for eligible health care expenses after retirement. Interest accrues tax free. County provides a scheduled contribution after five years of participation
Transit and parking
Fully funded Metropass.Transportation/parking expenses reimbursement account
Employee well-being
Employee assistance program, including telephone counseling, financial counseling, rideshare benefits, etc.Wellness programmingFlexible work policy with hybrid work options for eligible positions
Life Insurance and Disability leave
County provided Basic Life coverage - 1x annual salary, minimum $10,000 up to a maximum of $50,000. Optional supplemental coverage availableLong-term Disability - County provided coverage replaces 40% of the employee's lost income after six months of disability, subject to a $5,000 monthly maximum. Option to purchase an additional 20% income replacement up to $7,500 monthly maximumShort-term Disability - option to purchase 60% income replacement coverage with 30, 60 or 90-day waiting period
Career development
Tuition reimbursement, up to $4,000 per yearOnline professional development opportunities through the Learning & Development CenterCounty employment qualifies as a public service organization for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness ProgramEmployee resource groups - help employees build connections through common bonds with colleagues
For information about Ramsey County's 2024 benefits, visit:
01
Each applicant must complete this supplemental questionnaire as a part of the application screening process. The supplemental questionnaire will be used as a scored evaluation of your knowledge, skills and experience. Provide complete information for each question.
Do not write "see resume" as it is not an acceptable answer.
The experiences you indicate in your responses will be reviewed and used to determine your eligibility to move forward in the selection process. Select "yes" if you have read and understand.
YesNo
02
Have you completed or currently participating in any of the following Public Sector Partnership Programs at Ramsey County? Examples may include a program in partnership with HIRED, Project for Pride in Living (PPL), Ramsey County Workforce Solutions, or an internship (including Right Track Plus), fellowship, limited duration assignment, provisional assignment, temporary opportunity or participating in a work experience like the Young Adult Career Academy, or job shadow experience. Answer No, if none of the above.
YesNo
03
Do you have or have you ever held a professional license?
YesNo
04
If you answered "Yes" to the previous question, please list the type of license(s) and the State or jurisdiction the license is or was held; also indicate the status of your license(s). If this does not apply to you, please write "N/A" in the space provided.
05
Have you or are you currently participating in the accountant fellowship program?
YesNo
06
Do you have a Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Business Administration, Public Administration or a related field?
YesNo
07
Indicate when and where you obtained your completed degree(s) to which you refer in the previous question. State the name of the institution, the name of degree area, and the month and year of graduation. If this does not apply to you, type "N/A" in the space below.
08
Do you have one or more years of payroll experience?
YesNo
09
Which best describes your experience with payroll and related work tasks?
More than two years of full-time experience in this area.More than one year, but less than two years of full-time experience in this area.Less than one year full-time experience in this area.No experience in this area.
10
Which option below describes your experience with account reconciliation?
No experienceOne to two years of experienceTwo to five years of experienceFive or more years of experience
Required Question
$55,321.50 - $82,031.03 Annually
Location :
(Metro Square) Saint Paul, MN
Job Type:
Full Time
Remote Employment:
Flexible/Hybrid
Job Number:
2024-01013
Department:
21B01-Finance/Admin
Opening Date:
09/24/2024
Closing Date:
10/8/2024 11:59 PM Central
Union:
Unrepresented
Salary Plan:
02A
Salary Grade:
23C
FLSA Status:
nonexempt
Basic Function
The current vacancy is in the Finance Department. The eligibility list created by this vacancy may be used to hire other vacancies in the department or County.
The primary focus of this position will be working within the payroll team.
To review and analyze accounting transactions, prepare financial reports, maintain records of the financial activity of the department or units to which assigned and ensure compliance with legal guidelines and generally accepted accounting principles; and to perform related duties as assigned. (This is the entry-level class in the Accountant classification series. Positions in this classification perform accounting duties that require knowledge of accounting principles but do not require previous accounting experience in their application. Work assignments at this level provide the opportunity to obtain the knowledge and proficiency of skills and abilities required for advancement to the Accountant 2 level.)
Flexible WorkplaceThis position is identified under the designation of 'flex work eligible', meaning that the employee can formally opt to be in-office full-time or work a flex schedule in which at least two-days per week are performed in office and other days can be performed in a remote-first environment. Regardless of selection, the position carries expectations regarding on-site responsibilities and will require schedule flexibility beyond the minimum expectations set forth in the county's flexible workplace policy. To view Ramsey County's Flexible Workplace policy, go to:
Flexible Workplace policy
If an internal candidate is selected, salary will be set in accordance with the personnel rules (i.e., promotion, transfer, or voluntary reduction).
To view or print a copy of the complete Ramsey County job (class) description for this position, go to: Once at this page, you can browse the alphabetical list or search for a job description.Examples of Work Performed
Prepare financial reports, operating statements, accounts payable statements, accounts receivable statements and similar periodic reports for management by reviewing, analyzing and compiling financial information in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles.Assemble and prepare budget information by analyzing accounting records and reports and estimating revenues and expenses.Review and approve claims, invoices, purchase orders, accounts payables and other documents relating to receipts, expenditures, transfers and other transactions to ensure that transactions are accurate and in conformance with established policies, contracts, appropriate accounting practices, and that adequate funds are available, initiate corrective actions as necessary.Maintain ledger, journals and other financial control records by classifying and recording transactions in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles; establish internal controls, reconcile subsidiary ledgers and recommend corrective actions as necessary.Conduct financial analyses of purchase of service contracts or other financial programs by reviewing and evaluating financial records, reports, contracts, proposals or similar source documents in order to provide accurate and timely information for decision making by management.Participate in contract development by conducting preliminary audits on new outside contractors, provide technical accounting assistance to contractors and perform financial evaluations on proposed contracts.Prepare grant budgets and the necessary budget adjustments in order to properly fund and control grant awards; prepare the necessary monthly/quarterly report of financial or statistical data to funding agencies.Respond to requests for information from auditors or other external funding sources concerning the financial activities of a county program.Operate computer equipment; produce, obtain or analyze computer-generated information in performing the accounting duties assigned.Provide training or direction to other accounting support staff.
(The work assigned to a position in this classification may not include all possible tasks in this work and does not limit the assignment of any additional tasks in this classification. Regular attendance according to the position's management approved work schedule is required.)
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS : 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 8, 10.
Minimum Qualifications
Education:
Bachelor's Degree in Accounting, Business Administration, Public Administration or a related field.
Experience:
One year of accounting or related experience.
Substitution:
Equivalent combination of education and experience.
Certifications/Licensure:
None.
Exam/Screening Process Information
The examination process will consist of the following section with each section weighted as indicated:Training and Experience Rating = 100%The examination for Accountant 1 will consist of a training and experience rating, comprised of the questions in the attached supplemental questionnaire. Not all applicants who meet the minimum qualifications will pass the training and experience rating. The rating on this supplemental questionnaire will depend on your answers to the questions - do not mark "see resume" or "see work history" as a response. Please answer all your questions clearly and completely. Failure to respond could affect your score and final rank on this examination.
Eligible List
:
The names of all applicants who filed a properly completed application and passed the examination/screening process shall be placed on the eligible list for an employment opportunity as an Accountant 1. This list will be certified to the appointing authority which may use this list to conduct interviews to fill a vacancy. Candidates will remain on the list for 30 days or until hired, whichever occurs first. A notice will be sent to applicants at the time the eligible list is posted, informing them that the list has been certified and their status.
Veteran's Preference
: This is a classified position requiring an open, competitive selection process.
Veteran's Preference points will be applied after a candidate passes the examination process. Applicants who are eligible for veteran's preference should update their veteran's DD214, and other supporting documents, and submit them as an attachment at the time of application.
Criminal Background Checks
:
All employment offers are conditioned upon the applicant passing a criminal background check. Convictions are not an automatic bar to employment. Each case is considered on its individual merits and the type of work sought. However, making false statements or withholding information will cause you to be barred from employment, or removed from employment.
E-Verify Participation
:
Ramsey County participates in the federal E-Verify program. This means that Ramsey County will provide the Social Security Administration (SSA) and, if necessary, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), with information from each new employee's Form I-9 to confirm work authorization. If the Government cannot confirm that you are authorized to work, Ramsey County is required to give you written instructions and an opportunity to contact DHS and/or the SSA before taking adverse action against you, including terminating your employment. Employers may not use E-Verify to pre-screen job applicants and may not limit or influence the choice of documents you present for use on the Form I-9.
Equal Opportunity Employer
:
Ramsey County provides equal access to employment, programs, and services without regard to race, color, creed, religion, age, sex (except when sex is a Bona Fide Occupational Qualification), disability, familial or marital status, sexual orientation or gender identity, public assistance status, place of residence, political affiliation, or national origin.
Ramsey County is deeply committed to advancing racial equity and promoting diversity and inclusion within all areas of its workforce. The county strives being equitable, inclusive, transparent, respectful, and impactful in how we serve and engage with residents, as well as Ramsey County employees. Advancing racial equity ensures all people who need access to opportunities and services we provide, will receive them. Racial equity is achieved when race can no longer be used to predict life outcomes, and outcomes for all are improved.
To print a paper application for this posting click You will need to print this posting AND answer the supplemental questions associated with this exam and submit them with your completed paper application.
For further information regarding this posting, please contact
Ramsey County provides a wide range of employee benefits to support health, well-being, and work/life balance. Benefits eligibility can vary depending on union status/contract language. A summary of benefits is provided below. Detailed information is available for review atMedical, dental and vision insurance
The County contributes a bargained percentage to the medical and dental monthly premiumEmployees choose from four enrollment tiers: Single, Employee + legally married spouse, Employee + Child(ren), FamilyBlue Cross Blue Shield Medical insurance - three plan options including a High Deductible Plan with a Health Saving Account offered. Earn up to $20/month in electronic gift cards for each enrolled employee or spouse for wellness activityMetLife Dental Insurance - two plan options offeredVSP Vision Insurance - Advantage Plan offered
Pre-tax Benefit Program
Pre-tax medical, dental, vision monthly premium deduction optionDependent and Health Care Flexible Spending AccountsCounty monthly contribution to a Health Savings Account for employees who elect the High Deductible medical plan
Paid time off
Vacation hours, accrued based on years of service, ranging from 12 to 25 days per year (pro-rated for part-time employees)11 scheduled holidays and one floating holidayUp to three weeks of 100% paid parental leave, plus additional use of sick time as noted belowSick hours accrued at a rate of three weeks per year, which can be used for medical and dental care; injury or illness for you, your spouse or children; the birth or adoption of a child (up to 80 hours) or the death of a family member (up to 40 hours)Wellness incentive allows conversion of unused sick time to vacation or pay
Retirement benefits
Pension - The county contributes at least 7.5% of your salary to your pension, depending on bargaining unit. Unlike other retirement investments, pension payments are a lifetime benefit once you start collecting paymentsNew employees become vested after five years. For the Police and Fire union, employees are vested after 10 yearsDeferred compensation - 457(b) account with employer matchHealth Care Savings Plan - all benefits-eligible employees contribute 1% of gross regular salary to a Health Care Savings Plan account for eligible health care expenses after retirement. Interest accrues tax free. County provides a scheduled contribution after five years of participation
Transit and parking
Fully funded Metropass.Transportation/parking expenses reimbursement account
Employee well-being
Employee assistance program, including telephone counseling, financial counseling, rideshare benefits, etc.Wellness programmingFlexible work policy with hybrid work options for eligible positions
Life Insurance and Disability leave
County provided Basic Life coverage - 1x annual salary, minimum $10,000 up to a maximum of $50,000. Optional supplemental coverage availableLong-term Disability - County provided coverage replaces 40% of the employee's lost income after six months of disability, subject to a $5,000 monthly maximum. Option to purchase an additional 20% income replacement up to $7,500 monthly maximumShort-term Disability - option to purchase 60% income replacement coverage with 30, 60 or 90-day waiting period
Career development
Tuition reimbursement, up to $4,000 per yearOnline professional development opportunities through the Learning & Development CenterCounty employment qualifies as a public service organization for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness ProgramEmployee resource groups - help employees build connections through common bonds with colleagues
For information about Ramsey County's 2024 benefits, visit:
01
Each applicant must complete this supplemental questionnaire as a part of the application screening process. The supplemental questionnaire will be used as a scored evaluation of your knowledge, skills and experience. Provide complete information for each question.
Do not write "see resume" as it is not an acceptable answer.
The experiences you indicate in your responses will be reviewed and used to determine your eligibility to move forward in the selection process. Select "yes" if you have read and understand.
YesNo
02
Have you completed or currently participating in any of the following Public Sector Partnership Programs at Ramsey County? Examples may include a program in partnership with HIRED, Project for Pride in Living (PPL), Ramsey County Workforce Solutions, or an internship (including Right Track Plus), fellowship, limited duration assignment, provisional assignment, temporary opportunity or participating in a work experience like the Young Adult Career Academy, or job shadow experience. Answer No, if none of the above.
YesNo
03
Do you have or have you ever held a professional license?
YesNo
04
If you answered "Yes" to the previous question, please list the type of license(s) and the State or jurisdiction the license is or was held; also indicate the status of your license(s). If this does not apply to you, please write "N/A" in the space provided.
05
Have you or are you currently participating in the accountant fellowship program?
YesNo
06
Do you have a Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Business Administration, Public Administration or a related field?
YesNo
07
Indicate when and where you obtained your completed degree(s) to which you refer in the previous question. State the name of the institution, the name of degree area, and the month and year of graduation. If this does not apply to you, type "N/A" in the space below.
08
Do you have one or more years of payroll experience?
YesNo
09
Which best describes your experience with payroll and related work tasks?
More than two years of full-time experience in this area.More than one year, but less than two years of full-time experience in this area.Less than one year full-time experience in this area.No experience in this area.
10
Which option below describes your experience with account reconciliation?
No experienceOne to two years of experienceTwo to five years of experienceFive or more years of experience
Required Question