City of Santa Cruz
Assistant Director of Finance - Water Department
City of Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, California, us, 95061
Salary :
$148,152.00 - $190,968.00 Annually
Location :
City of Santa Cruz, CA
Job Type:
Regular Full-Time
Job Number:
25-031
Department:
Water
Opening Date:
10/17/2024
Closing Date:
11/14/2024 5:00 PM Pacific
The Position
The current vacancy for Assistant Finance Director is in the Water
Department and reports to the Water Director The eligibility list established from this recruitment may be used to fill other Assistant Finance Director vacancies during the life of the list. The eligibility list established from this recruitment is valid for up to one year from the date established unless the list is extended or abolished by the Human Resource Director.
Positions may be assigned to the Finance Department, Water or Public Works Department. Under general direction, the position may be responsible for the oversight and direction of several divisions including, accounting services, payroll, accounts payable, purchasing, auditing and treasury/revenue. Manages assigned departmental services and supervises and coordinates the work of staff engaged in operations related to assigned functional areas. Provides direct administrative and analytical support to the Director and assists in the overall management of the Department including budget preparation. Additionally, under general direction the position is responsible for all department financial planning activities including financial planning and analyses, financial modeling and forecasting, and bond sales timelines.
Current vacancy:
Under direction of the Santa Cruz Water Director, in partnership with the City's Finance Director, the Assistant Finance Director for Water provides leadership and management for all financial functions of the Department and works collaboratively with City's Finance Department, the Water Department executive team, management, and staff to effectively manage the Department's financial planning and management activities such as:
maintain the utility's financial model and conduct forecasts,update the Department's Long Range Financial Plan and provide leadership in the rate development process including Proposition 218 requirements,conduct cash flow analyses and manage same,plan and manage the Department's grants and the various debt instruments,assist in the development of fees and charges to support the Department's operating and capital programs,oversee the development of the Department's annual budget and capital improvement program,conduct complex financial analyses and provide administrative support for a full range of internal and external work products and stakeholders.provide supervision to financial manager(s), management analyst(s) and administrative staff as appropriate.Ideal CandidateThe ideal candidate will be an effective communicator with solid interpersonal skills necessary to build and maintain strong relationships both internally and externally. This is an exciting opportunity for an effective and innovative financial leader who can quickly assess and understand the needs of the Department and City. The selected candidate will have a positive presence, treats others with respect, and is open and approachable. We are looking for a financial leader who has high ethical standards, exercises good judgement, will take initiative, and will earn the trust of all stakeholders, internal and external.
The successful Assistant Finance Director will enter at a unique and challenging time as the Water Department is undergoing historic reinvestment in the system's current infrastructure as well as planning for improvements which will increase the water system's reliability and security. Not only has the utility secured traditional revenue bonds and a line of credit, but the Department has also secured State Revolving Fund, Water Infrastructure Finance and Innovation Act and California I-Bank loans.
The Department has partnerships with neighboring water utilities to connect the agencies and ensure the delivery of potable water in emergencies, protect the shared aquifers from seawater intrusion, and make the highest and best use of our shared resources. Financial partnerships are a critical part of the ongoing sharing of these resources.
To read more about who we are and what we do:
Recruitment #25-031
Selection Timeline:
(Note: The following process may be changed as deemed necessary by the Human Resources Director.)
On
Thursday 11/14/24
recruitment will close. All application materials must be received by the Human Resources Department by 5:00 pm; postmarks are not accepted. To apply, submit:Application
- online application only. Resumes are not accepted in lieu of filling out the application form completely. Click the Apply button to begin the online application process.Response to supplemental questions
- will be a primary tool in the evaluation of your qualifications for this position. Any work experience described here must also be included in your employment history on the main application.Week of 11/18/24 : Applications will be competitively screened based on the minimum qualifications for this position. Candidates will be notified of their status in the recruitment once all applications have been reviewed.Week of 12/02/24:
Oral board examination will be scheduled for top candidates.Selection interviews will be conducted for finalists following the results of the oral examination.Typical Duties
(May include but are not limited to those duties listed below):
Assists the Director in managing and directing department staff, operations and service levels.Contributes to the development of department goals and objectives and policies and procedures; recommends modifications to existing polices and the establishment of new policies to the Director.Supervises, trains, establishes and monitors employee performance objectives and evaluations of division managers; recommends the selection, promotion and performance management of division employees; encourages teamwork and collaboration.Monitors departmental fiscal operations; administers fiscal controls and fiscal policies to ensure compliance with administrative and legal restrictions.Analyzes and recommends strategies to improve effectiveness of operations by conducting a variety of organizational studies and operational objectives.Conducts analysis and provides recommendations on sensitive issues including labor negotiations.Prepares and manages the development of complex financial and management reports, including presentations to the City Manager and City Council.Assists with development of the city budget; participates in departmental budget reviews and analysis of the Capital Investment Program.Responsible for all Department financial planning activities including financial planning and analysis, cash flow analysis, revenue bond sales, development of rates/fees/chargesManages debt financing programs, including long- and short-term debt financing, assures compliance with debt covenants and disclosures, coordinates required updates and presentations to debt rating agencies.Assesses and monitors cash flow projects, cash forecast, and cash requirement needs.Participates in the analysis and interpretation of utility billing records and customer-related data.Oversees the preparation of periodic and annual financial statements and other reports for City management and other agencies.Reviews financial analyses developed by consultants, departments or other agencies to verify their completeness and accuracy.Manages large and complex projects by coordinating work with other City departments as well as other agencies or financial institutions.Administers major projects as determined by the Director.Acts as liaison to independent auditors.Directs the preparation of interim and annual financial reports, and manages the financial reporting requirements of the City's Federal and State grant programs.Provides oversight of financial systems including the maintenance and upgrade of the financial, budget, and payroll systems as required.Creates and sustains a culture of continuous business improvement to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of the Department's performance.Represents the City in meetings with local, state and federal agencies; business and community groups and members of the public regarding financial matters.Provides support and advice to the City Manager, Human Resources and other departments on financial policy matters.Assists the Director with long-range forecastingMay acts as Director of Finance in the Director's absence if assigned to the Finance Department.Performs other related duties that may be reasonably expected as part of this classification.WORKING CONDITIONSPosition requires prolonged sitting, standing, walking, reaching, twisting, turning, kneeling, bending, squatting and stooping in the performance of daily activities. The position also requires grasping, repetitive hand movement and fine coordination when using a computer keyboard. Additionally, the position requires near and far vision when reading and using a computer. Acute hearing is required when providing phone and personal service. The need to lift, push and pull files, paper and documents weighing up to 25 pounds also is required. Some of these requirements may be accommodated for otherwise qualified individuals requiring and requesting such accommodations.Minimum Qualifications
The minimum qualifications for Education, Experience, Knowledge, Skills and Abilities are the following:
Education and Experience:
Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in accounting, finance, business or public administration, economics or a related field; andFour (4) years of increasingly responsible professional advanced level financial management which include two (2) years in a management capacity, and which also include two (2) years of experience in municipal finance.Four (4) years of supervisory experience.
Knowledge :
Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP), Government Accounting, Auditing and Financial Reporting (GAAFR) and Government Accounting Standards Board (GASB), accounting standards and pronouncements.Principles and practices of public administration.Budget and financial analysis.Principles and practices of financial policy development and implementation; revenue forecasting; financial control systems; methodology, laws, rules and regulations that apply to local government fiscal operations; sources of revenue and expenditures typical of a local government; investment of public funds; debt management; financial analysis; municipal budgeting (operating and capital) and long range forecasting.Principles of supervision, leadership, training and performance evaluation.Auditing principles and practices.Statistical research and reporting methods.Proficient computer skills including but not limited to Microsoft Office products and financial operating software systems and database.
Abilities :
Accurately analyze, evaluate, and summarize complex and technical financial and management records for accuracy and conformance to procedures, rules and regulations.Develop, modify, and implement accounting procedures, policies and systems.Effectively plan, organize, assign, and supervise work of assigned personnel.Interpret, apply and explain rules, regulations, policies and procedures regarding accounting and auditing practices.Accurately analyze problems, identify alternative solutions, project consequences of proposed actions and implement recommendations in support of goals.Demonstrate a high level of proficiency in various software applications, including spreadsheets, databases and presentation software.Exercise sound and independent judgment, conduct independent analysis and make recommendations on difficult and sensitive issues.Maintain confidentiality.Communicate effectively both verbally and in writing.Represent the Finance Department to outside agencies and organizations; participate in community and professional groups and committees; provide technical assistance as necessary.Recognize occupational hazards and utilize standard safety procedures.Establish and maintain effective working relationships with those contacted in the course of work.
Licenses and CertificatesPossession and continued maintenance of a valid California Class C drivers' license.
DESIRABLE QUALIFICATIONS
Certified Public Accountant (CPA)Experience with municipal utility services.
Career Ladder
Career Ladder
Finance DirectorAssistant Finance DirectorFinance ManagerSr. AccountantAccountant I/IIAccounting Services SupervisorAccounting TechnicianAccounting Assistant II
SALARY
-
The current salary range for this position is posted on the City website. Appointment may be made commensurate with experience. See the on the City website for further details on pay rates and practices.
APPOINTMENT
-
Any candidate selected by the appointing department may be required to pass a pre-employment medical exam administered by a City-selected physician before hire to non-sedentary positions. Prior to starting work, all newly hired employees will be fingerprinted to check conviction history. A conviction history will not necessarily disqualify an applicant from appointment. Candidates must present documentation verifying authorization to work in the United States and take a loyalty oath as required by the State of California at the time of hire. Appointments to regular positions are subject to a six-month probationary period which is considered a part of the selection process. Probationary employees may be terminated without recourse during this period. Positions which are covered by the Department of Transportation regulations are required to submit to a pre-employment drug test and to random drug and alcohol testing.
LEAVE
Vacation - 80 hours/year up to 5 years, 120 hours/year 6-10 years, plus 8 hours for each year after 10 years up to a maximum of 160 hours/year.
Sick - 12 days/year
Holidays - up to 11 days/yearFloating Holidays - 24 hours per year - prorated for part-time
INSURANCE
- (available to employee and eligible dependents)
Medical - Depends on plan selected; City generally pays at least 90% of the cost of coverage. Participating members make an additional $35 contribution per pay period towards health care benefits.
Dental, Vision, Employee Assistance Program - City currently pays full cost of employee and family coverage. Pro-rated for part-time.
Life - City provides a $25,000 life insurance policy.
Long Term Disability - City provides a long term disability plan.
MANAGEMENT LEAVE/OPTIONAL BENEFIT PLAN
80 hours of additional vacation per year. A $1,300 (less than 10 yrs) or $1,500 (greater than 10 yrs) annual contribution may be used to purchase additional vacation, be place in deferred compensation account or be paid in cash (cashout limited to 20 hours).
RETIREMENT
All regular employees become members of PERS. Public Employees' Retirement System (PERS) 2% @ 62 (3 year average). Prior PERS membership may affect retirement formula. Employees contribute 11.25% of their salary to PERS on a pre-tax basis. An employee is vested after 5 years of membership. No Social Security is withheld.
ADDITIONAL BENEFITS
(not all inclusive)
457 Deferred Compensation Plan
Accident Protection Insurance
Cancer and Critical Illness Insurance
Direct Deposit
Discount Bus Pass Program
Flexible Spending Plans for Health & Dependent Care
Longevity Pay (after 10 years and 15 years)
In lieu Medical Reimbursement of $200 /month
Supplemental Life InsuranceTuition Reimbursement
01
This position requires a Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in accounting, finance, business or public administration, economics or a related field. Please indicate your degree, field of study, and name of accredited college or university from which you graduated.
02
Under direction of the Santa Cruz Water Director and in partnership with the City's Finance Director, the Assistant Finance Director for the Water Department will provide leadership and management for all financial functions of the Department. In 250 words or less and in your own words, describe your increasingly responsible professional and advanced level financial management experience that makes you a good candidate for this position.
03
A minimum requirement for this position is two years of experience in municipal finance. Describe how you meet or exceed this requirement.
04
Describe your experience managing debt, long range financial planning for a utility, and financial modeling and forecasting, providing two examples where you had to present to stakeholders your analysis and proposals or recommendations in any of these areas.
05
Describe your experience in employee supervision, leadership, training and performance evaluation.
06
Desirable Qualification: Describe any experience you have with municipal utility services. If you do not have this experience, please write N/A.
Required Question
$148,152.00 - $190,968.00 Annually
Location :
City of Santa Cruz, CA
Job Type:
Regular Full-Time
Job Number:
25-031
Department:
Water
Opening Date:
10/17/2024
Closing Date:
11/14/2024 5:00 PM Pacific
The Position
The current vacancy for Assistant Finance Director is in the Water
Department and reports to the Water Director The eligibility list established from this recruitment may be used to fill other Assistant Finance Director vacancies during the life of the list. The eligibility list established from this recruitment is valid for up to one year from the date established unless the list is extended or abolished by the Human Resource Director.
Positions may be assigned to the Finance Department, Water or Public Works Department. Under general direction, the position may be responsible for the oversight and direction of several divisions including, accounting services, payroll, accounts payable, purchasing, auditing and treasury/revenue. Manages assigned departmental services and supervises and coordinates the work of staff engaged in operations related to assigned functional areas. Provides direct administrative and analytical support to the Director and assists in the overall management of the Department including budget preparation. Additionally, under general direction the position is responsible for all department financial planning activities including financial planning and analyses, financial modeling and forecasting, and bond sales timelines.
Current vacancy:
Under direction of the Santa Cruz Water Director, in partnership with the City's Finance Director, the Assistant Finance Director for Water provides leadership and management for all financial functions of the Department and works collaboratively with City's Finance Department, the Water Department executive team, management, and staff to effectively manage the Department's financial planning and management activities such as:
maintain the utility's financial model and conduct forecasts,update the Department's Long Range Financial Plan and provide leadership in the rate development process including Proposition 218 requirements,conduct cash flow analyses and manage same,plan and manage the Department's grants and the various debt instruments,assist in the development of fees and charges to support the Department's operating and capital programs,oversee the development of the Department's annual budget and capital improvement program,conduct complex financial analyses and provide administrative support for a full range of internal and external work products and stakeholders.provide supervision to financial manager(s), management analyst(s) and administrative staff as appropriate.Ideal CandidateThe ideal candidate will be an effective communicator with solid interpersonal skills necessary to build and maintain strong relationships both internally and externally. This is an exciting opportunity for an effective and innovative financial leader who can quickly assess and understand the needs of the Department and City. The selected candidate will have a positive presence, treats others with respect, and is open and approachable. We are looking for a financial leader who has high ethical standards, exercises good judgement, will take initiative, and will earn the trust of all stakeholders, internal and external.
The successful Assistant Finance Director will enter at a unique and challenging time as the Water Department is undergoing historic reinvestment in the system's current infrastructure as well as planning for improvements which will increase the water system's reliability and security. Not only has the utility secured traditional revenue bonds and a line of credit, but the Department has also secured State Revolving Fund, Water Infrastructure Finance and Innovation Act and California I-Bank loans.
The Department has partnerships with neighboring water utilities to connect the agencies and ensure the delivery of potable water in emergencies, protect the shared aquifers from seawater intrusion, and make the highest and best use of our shared resources. Financial partnerships are a critical part of the ongoing sharing of these resources.
To read more about who we are and what we do:
Recruitment #25-031
Selection Timeline:
(Note: The following process may be changed as deemed necessary by the Human Resources Director.)
On
Thursday 11/14/24
recruitment will close. All application materials must be received by the Human Resources Department by 5:00 pm; postmarks are not accepted. To apply, submit:Application
- online application only. Resumes are not accepted in lieu of filling out the application form completely. Click the Apply button to begin the online application process.Response to supplemental questions
- will be a primary tool in the evaluation of your qualifications for this position. Any work experience described here must also be included in your employment history on the main application.Week of 11/18/24 : Applications will be competitively screened based on the minimum qualifications for this position. Candidates will be notified of their status in the recruitment once all applications have been reviewed.Week of 12/02/24:
Oral board examination will be scheduled for top candidates.Selection interviews will be conducted for finalists following the results of the oral examination.Typical Duties
(May include but are not limited to those duties listed below):
Assists the Director in managing and directing department staff, operations and service levels.Contributes to the development of department goals and objectives and policies and procedures; recommends modifications to existing polices and the establishment of new policies to the Director.Supervises, trains, establishes and monitors employee performance objectives and evaluations of division managers; recommends the selection, promotion and performance management of division employees; encourages teamwork and collaboration.Monitors departmental fiscal operations; administers fiscal controls and fiscal policies to ensure compliance with administrative and legal restrictions.Analyzes and recommends strategies to improve effectiveness of operations by conducting a variety of organizational studies and operational objectives.Conducts analysis and provides recommendations on sensitive issues including labor negotiations.Prepares and manages the development of complex financial and management reports, including presentations to the City Manager and City Council.Assists with development of the city budget; participates in departmental budget reviews and analysis of the Capital Investment Program.Responsible for all Department financial planning activities including financial planning and analysis, cash flow analysis, revenue bond sales, development of rates/fees/chargesManages debt financing programs, including long- and short-term debt financing, assures compliance with debt covenants and disclosures, coordinates required updates and presentations to debt rating agencies.Assesses and monitors cash flow projects, cash forecast, and cash requirement needs.Participates in the analysis and interpretation of utility billing records and customer-related data.Oversees the preparation of periodic and annual financial statements and other reports for City management and other agencies.Reviews financial analyses developed by consultants, departments or other agencies to verify their completeness and accuracy.Manages large and complex projects by coordinating work with other City departments as well as other agencies or financial institutions.Administers major projects as determined by the Director.Acts as liaison to independent auditors.Directs the preparation of interim and annual financial reports, and manages the financial reporting requirements of the City's Federal and State grant programs.Provides oversight of financial systems including the maintenance and upgrade of the financial, budget, and payroll systems as required.Creates and sustains a culture of continuous business improvement to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of the Department's performance.Represents the City in meetings with local, state and federal agencies; business and community groups and members of the public regarding financial matters.Provides support and advice to the City Manager, Human Resources and other departments on financial policy matters.Assists the Director with long-range forecastingMay acts as Director of Finance in the Director's absence if assigned to the Finance Department.Performs other related duties that may be reasonably expected as part of this classification.WORKING CONDITIONSPosition requires prolonged sitting, standing, walking, reaching, twisting, turning, kneeling, bending, squatting and stooping in the performance of daily activities. The position also requires grasping, repetitive hand movement and fine coordination when using a computer keyboard. Additionally, the position requires near and far vision when reading and using a computer. Acute hearing is required when providing phone and personal service. The need to lift, push and pull files, paper and documents weighing up to 25 pounds also is required. Some of these requirements may be accommodated for otherwise qualified individuals requiring and requesting such accommodations.Minimum Qualifications
The minimum qualifications for Education, Experience, Knowledge, Skills and Abilities are the following:
Education and Experience:
Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in accounting, finance, business or public administration, economics or a related field; andFour (4) years of increasingly responsible professional advanced level financial management which include two (2) years in a management capacity, and which also include two (2) years of experience in municipal finance.Four (4) years of supervisory experience.
Knowledge :
Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP), Government Accounting, Auditing and Financial Reporting (GAAFR) and Government Accounting Standards Board (GASB), accounting standards and pronouncements.Principles and practices of public administration.Budget and financial analysis.Principles and practices of financial policy development and implementation; revenue forecasting; financial control systems; methodology, laws, rules and regulations that apply to local government fiscal operations; sources of revenue and expenditures typical of a local government; investment of public funds; debt management; financial analysis; municipal budgeting (operating and capital) and long range forecasting.Principles of supervision, leadership, training and performance evaluation.Auditing principles and practices.Statistical research and reporting methods.Proficient computer skills including but not limited to Microsoft Office products and financial operating software systems and database.
Abilities :
Accurately analyze, evaluate, and summarize complex and technical financial and management records for accuracy and conformance to procedures, rules and regulations.Develop, modify, and implement accounting procedures, policies and systems.Effectively plan, organize, assign, and supervise work of assigned personnel.Interpret, apply and explain rules, regulations, policies and procedures regarding accounting and auditing practices.Accurately analyze problems, identify alternative solutions, project consequences of proposed actions and implement recommendations in support of goals.Demonstrate a high level of proficiency in various software applications, including spreadsheets, databases and presentation software.Exercise sound and independent judgment, conduct independent analysis and make recommendations on difficult and sensitive issues.Maintain confidentiality.Communicate effectively both verbally and in writing.Represent the Finance Department to outside agencies and organizations; participate in community and professional groups and committees; provide technical assistance as necessary.Recognize occupational hazards and utilize standard safety procedures.Establish and maintain effective working relationships with those contacted in the course of work.
Licenses and CertificatesPossession and continued maintenance of a valid California Class C drivers' license.
DESIRABLE QUALIFICATIONS
Certified Public Accountant (CPA)Experience with municipal utility services.
Career Ladder
Career Ladder
Finance DirectorAssistant Finance DirectorFinance ManagerSr. AccountantAccountant I/IIAccounting Services SupervisorAccounting TechnicianAccounting Assistant II
SALARY
-
The current salary range for this position is posted on the City website. Appointment may be made commensurate with experience. See the on the City website for further details on pay rates and practices.
APPOINTMENT
-
Any candidate selected by the appointing department may be required to pass a pre-employment medical exam administered by a City-selected physician before hire to non-sedentary positions. Prior to starting work, all newly hired employees will be fingerprinted to check conviction history. A conviction history will not necessarily disqualify an applicant from appointment. Candidates must present documentation verifying authorization to work in the United States and take a loyalty oath as required by the State of California at the time of hire. Appointments to regular positions are subject to a six-month probationary period which is considered a part of the selection process. Probationary employees may be terminated without recourse during this period. Positions which are covered by the Department of Transportation regulations are required to submit to a pre-employment drug test and to random drug and alcohol testing.
LEAVE
Vacation - 80 hours/year up to 5 years, 120 hours/year 6-10 years, plus 8 hours for each year after 10 years up to a maximum of 160 hours/year.
Sick - 12 days/year
Holidays - up to 11 days/yearFloating Holidays - 24 hours per year - prorated for part-time
INSURANCE
- (available to employee and eligible dependents)
Medical - Depends on plan selected; City generally pays at least 90% of the cost of coverage. Participating members make an additional $35 contribution per pay period towards health care benefits.
Dental, Vision, Employee Assistance Program - City currently pays full cost of employee and family coverage. Pro-rated for part-time.
Life - City provides a $25,000 life insurance policy.
Long Term Disability - City provides a long term disability plan.
MANAGEMENT LEAVE/OPTIONAL BENEFIT PLAN
80 hours of additional vacation per year. A $1,300 (less than 10 yrs) or $1,500 (greater than 10 yrs) annual contribution may be used to purchase additional vacation, be place in deferred compensation account or be paid in cash (cashout limited to 20 hours).
RETIREMENT
All regular employees become members of PERS. Public Employees' Retirement System (PERS) 2% @ 62 (3 year average). Prior PERS membership may affect retirement formula. Employees contribute 11.25% of their salary to PERS on a pre-tax basis. An employee is vested after 5 years of membership. No Social Security is withheld.
ADDITIONAL BENEFITS
(not all inclusive)
457 Deferred Compensation Plan
Accident Protection Insurance
Cancer and Critical Illness Insurance
Direct Deposit
Discount Bus Pass Program
Flexible Spending Plans for Health & Dependent Care
Longevity Pay (after 10 years and 15 years)
In lieu Medical Reimbursement of $200 /month
Supplemental Life InsuranceTuition Reimbursement
01
This position requires a Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in accounting, finance, business or public administration, economics or a related field. Please indicate your degree, field of study, and name of accredited college or university from which you graduated.
02
Under direction of the Santa Cruz Water Director and in partnership with the City's Finance Director, the Assistant Finance Director for the Water Department will provide leadership and management for all financial functions of the Department. In 250 words or less and in your own words, describe your increasingly responsible professional and advanced level financial management experience that makes you a good candidate for this position.
03
A minimum requirement for this position is two years of experience in municipal finance. Describe how you meet or exceed this requirement.
04
Describe your experience managing debt, long range financial planning for a utility, and financial modeling and forecasting, providing two examples where you had to present to stakeholders your analysis and proposals or recommendations in any of these areas.
05
Describe your experience in employee supervision, leadership, training and performance evaluation.
06
Desirable Qualification: Describe any experience you have with municipal utility services. If you do not have this experience, please write N/A.
Required Question