City of Santa Maria, CA
Accounting Technician I
City of Santa Maria, CA, Santa Maria, California, United States, 93454
Salary :
$2,124.16 - $2,581.93 Biweekly
Location :
Santa Maria, CA
Job Type:
Full-Time
Job Number:
FY 25-00029
Department:
Finance
Division:
Utility Billing
Opening Date:
11/21/2024
Closing Date:
12/1/2024 5:00 PM Pacific
Max Number of Applicants:
50
OPPORTUNITY
Open Date: November 21, 2024
Closing Date: December 1, 2024 at 5:00 p.m.
***This recruitment will close ahead of schedule if 50 applications are received before the advertised closing date***
POSITION: The City of Santa Maria is recruiting for an
Accounting Technician I
in the Utility Billing Division of the Finance Department. The ideal candidate is bilingual in English and Spanish and is a detail-oriented professional with strong financial record-keeping and customer service skills, preferably in a municipal or utility setting. They possess expertise in cash reconciliation, financial transactions, and data accuracy. This individual is skilled in handling customer inquiries, understands city policies and billing procedures, and effectively communicates complex information to community members and businesses. They are proactive, collaborative, and committed to high-quality service, aligning with the City of Santa Maria's standards.
Full Job Description: Accounting Technician I Bi-Weekly Salary Rate:
(Appointment at the appropriate level will depend upon qualifications and experience) $2,124.16 - $2,581.93
Required Submittals: 1. Online Application 2. Up-to-date Resume DUTIES
These duties are a representative example; position assignments may vary depending on the business needs of the department and organization.
This position: Leads daily Utility Billing Division operations such as handling financial duties and cash reconciliation, customer service requests, and managing additional projects as needed. Communicates city policies, rates, and fees to the public and City staff; addresses and resolves complex inquiries. Performs complex technical accounting duties establishing processes and maintenance of financial record Receives and classifies accounting data; coordinates the maintenance of journals and subsidiary ledgers, general ledgers, and related financial records. Prepares accounts receivable invoices, monitors aging of accounts receivable and prepares monthly past due notices. Prepares periodic statements and analyses of revenues and expenditures and compiles preliminary budget data. Prepares trial balances, working papers, and balance sheets; prepares complex statistical and financial reports. Assists with annual financial audits; calculates distribution of financial appropriations; assists in accounting studies and the compilation of cost estimates. Administers the procurement program; participates and/or coordinates in the preparation of warrants for payroll and payment of purchases. Processes requisitions and issues purchase orders. Develops, maintains, and controls data entered into the accounting system. Reviews departmental procedures with administration and other personnel, and answers questions regarding the accounting systems. Level II incumbents may serve as lead worker over entry level incumbents in the performance of these functions. Scope of assigned area will depend on departmental structure and is at the discretion of the Department Director. Upholds the values of the organization and has strong customer service orientation. Performs other related projects and duties as assigned. Demonstrates regular, reliable and punctual attendance. Individual Contributor: Incumbents should have a solid foundation of the following core competencies identified by the organization to be essential and listed in order of importance. (See the full definition of
Individual Contributor Competencies ).
Team Player
- Effective performers are team oriented, share resources, respond to requests, and support a spirit of cooperative effort. Customer Orientation
- Effective performers are in touch with community needs and review the organization through the eyes of Santa Maria residents. They go out of their way to anticipate needs. Integrity
- Effective performers think and act ethically and honestly, take responsibility for their actions and foster a work environment where integrity is rewarded. Communicativeness
- Effective performers recognize the essential value of continuous information exchange and the competitive advantage it brings. They actively seek information from a variety of sources and disseminate it in a variety of ways. They use modern technologies to access and circulate information, even across great distances. They take responsibility for ensuring that their people have the current and accurate information needed for success. Initiative
- Effective performers are proactive and take action without being prompted. They do not wait to be told what to do or when to do it. They see a need, take responsibility, and act on it. They make things happen. Composure
- Effective performers maintain emotional control, even under ambiguous or stressful circumstances, and demonstrate emotions appropriate to the situation. Functional/Technical Expertise
- Effective performers are knowledgeable and skilled in a functional specialty (e.g., finance, public works, planning, information technology, human resources, etc.), and remain current in their area of expertise. Problem Solving & Decision Making
- Effective performers identify problems, solve them, act decisively, and show good judgment. Learning Agility
- Effective performers continuously seek new knowledge, are curious, learn quickly, and use new information effectively. Drive/Energy
- Effective performers have a high level of energy and are ambitious and passionate about their role. They have stamina and endurance to maintain a fast pace. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
Accounting Technician I:
Ideally, two years of experience in a paraprofessional position in accounting; and Graduation from high school, and college or university coursework in accounting; and/or An equivalent combination of education and experience sufficient to successfully perform the essential duties of the job such as those listed above.
Current technical/professional knowledge of complex principles, methods, standards and techniques associated with the scope of work of a recognized profession, such as:
General or basic accounting; municipal budget preparation and monitoring; government purchasing procedures and inventory control methods; local, state, federal, and private grant program policies and accounting procedures. Effective verbal and interpersonal communication skills. Microsoft Office Suite (or equivalent). Use computer and other office equipment effectively.
Desired licenses and/or certifications associated with the assignment. Bilingual in English and Spanish is highly desired.
SELECTION PROCESS
The complete electronic application packet includes the online application and an uploaded resume. Incomplete applications will not be considered. Application Ranking: The application will be evaluated and scored. Candidate's final score and rank on the eligibility list will be determined by their complete application packet upon meeting the employment standards of the position.
Applicants who meet the employment standards will be considered for an interview with the hiring department. Applicants invited to an interview will be notified electronically at the email address indicated in their application. Therefore, it is the applicant's responsibility to provide an accurate email address and to allow their inbox to receive emails regarding this recruitment.
Prior to an offer of employment, applicants may undergo a background investigation to the satisfaction of the City.
If you are experiencing any technical (computer-related) difficulties or need help with attaching documents to your application, call the NEOGOV helpline for assistance at 1-855-524-5627Application Selection:
The following benefits vary by bargaining unit. For full benefit information please refer to the Memorandum of Understanding or compensation resolution available at
Retirement The City of Santa Maria is a member of the California Public Employees' Retirement System (CalPERS). Your benefit factor is determined by the retirement formula, age, service credit and final compensation. Based upon your bargaining unit and hire date the benefit factor will vary.
Health Insurance Medical Insurance is provided to employees and eligible dependents through the California Public Employees' Retirement System (CalPERS). There are four Preferred Provider Organizations (PPO's) and three Health Maintenance Organizations (HMO's) to choose from. The benefit amount varies per bargaining unit.
The City has a medical insurance benefit program which provides either payment towards the premium for the employee and eligible dependents, or cash payment if you and your dependent(s) already have health benefits. Evidence of major medical health insurance coverage is required for those employees who receive the cash payment. See Memorandum of Understanding for eligibility requirements.
Dental Insurance Dental Insurance is provided to employees and eligible dependents through The Standard covering 100% of Preventive; 90% of Basic; and 60% of Major with a minimal deductible. The plan includes a Max Builder option rewarding insured employees and their dependents who use only a portion of their annual dental benefit maximum. The benefit amount varies per bargaining unit.
Vision Insurance Vision Insurance is available to employees and eligible dependents. Coverage is through VSP and covers an annual Well Vision exam and an allowance towards prescription glasses. The benefit amount varies per bargaining unit.
Life Insurance and AD&D Coverage All employees working a minimum of thirty two (32) hours per week are eligible for Life and Accidental Death & Dismemberment (AD&D) coverage. Supplemental life, spousal and dependent child options are also available. The benefit amount varies per bargaining unit.
Short-Term & Long-Term Disability All employees working a minimum of thirty two (32) hours per week, excluding Sworn Police and Fire shall participate in the short-term and long-term disability plan with coverage up to 66 2/3% of salary. Sworn Police and Fire are covered through their respective bargaining unit.
Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) The City offers a flexible spending account option for Dependent Care and Health Care Expenses. With these plans, employees can choose to place a portion of their earnings into a personal reimbursement account on a pre-tax basis. Doing so lowers employees' taxable income for the year and allows them to pay for their qualified dependent care and eligible health care expenses with pre-tax dollars.
Employee Assistance Program
The City provides an Employee Assistance Program (EAP) through AETNA for all full and part time employees and their eligible dependents. The confidential EAP program can refer employees to professional counselors and services that can help resolve emotional health, family and work-life issues, or provide help with childcare and eldercare assistance, financial and legal services, identity theft recovery services and daily living services.
Wellness Program Offered to help employees gain knowledge, skills and motivation to improve the quality of their lives and well-being. The City's Wellness Program includes ergonomic evaluations, flu shots, and Wellness Workshops during lunch and after work. Access to the Paul Nelson Aquatics Center for employee and immediate family members. Access to the Weight room at the Abel Maldonado Community Youth Center for employee and immediate family members. Access to employee discounts and special offers on travel, entertainment, shopping, dining and services.
Mentorship Program
This professional development program of mentoring and job shadowing provides mentees with an opportunity to be mentored by experienced staff with the objective of developing specific skills and knowledge that will enhance the participants' leadership skills and promote professional growth.
Succession Planning The academies are offered to all employees including those that are not yet in a supervisory role, but are interested in becoming leaders within the organization as well as our executive management team who have an interest in honing their skills and helping to prepare our future leaders. In addition to multiple leadership academies, the City offers quarterly Speaker Series, a corporate Toastmasters club available for City employees, site tours of various departments, and more.
Deferred Compensation Employees may participate in the City's 457 Deferred Compensation Plan sponsored by either Empower or CalPERS Supplemental Income. The plan enables employees to save salary and earn interest on a tax-deferred basis. A City match is available based upon representation.
The City also provides an IRS approved 401(a) plan sponsored by Empower for managers represented by Non-Represented Full-Time Management & Confidential (NMAC).
Post Employment Health Plan (PEHP) Based upon your bargaining unit the City may participate in a PEHP plan that will provide reimbursement for out-of-pocket cost of qualified medical expenses such as prescription drugs, doctor co-pays, eyeglasses and cover the reimbursement of medical insurance premiums upon separation or retirement.
Holidays The City offers seven (7) paid holidays per year. In addition, based upon your bargaining unit a bank of floating holiday hours is available to be used at the employee's discretion.
Vacation The City initially offers two weeks of paid vacation per calendar year for all full time employees. Accrual rates increase thereafter based upon your bargaining unit.
Sick Leave Sick leave shall accrue a rate of eight hours for each month of continuous service, or approximately two weeks per year for all full time employees. Employees may use up to half of their annually accrued sick leave for family illness and up to five days (40 hours) per calendar year for bereavement leave.
Management Leave Management level employees may receive a prorated amount of management leave time each new calendar year.
Educational Incentive Program In addition to regular pay when education is in addition to the regular requirements of the job specifications and is work related.
Tuition Reimbursement Based on your bargaining unit, you may be reimbursed for tuition and book costs of approved job related courses. The maximum amount of tuition reimbursement in any calendar year will vary based upon your bargaining unit.
Auto Allowance Management level employees may receive auto allowance based upon the need of the position.
Telephone/PDA Stipend Management level employees may receive a telephone and/or PDA stipend based upon the need of the position.
Bilingual Pay Bilingual pay is provided to employees who are required by their department head to use both English and Spanish in communicating with the public while performing the duties of his/her position and who demonstrate appropriate skills in both speaking and understanding the Spanish language shall receive compensation. The benefit amount varies per bargaining unit.
01
Describe your level of experience providing customer service, and indicate the target populations you have interacted with.
02
Explain your level of experience with cash handling and cash reconciliation duties.
03
Indicate the total number of years that you have worked in government finance or utility billing.
Less than 1 year 1-2 years 3-5 years More than 5 years
Required Question
$2,124.16 - $2,581.93 Biweekly
Location :
Santa Maria, CA
Job Type:
Full-Time
Job Number:
FY 25-00029
Department:
Finance
Division:
Utility Billing
Opening Date:
11/21/2024
Closing Date:
12/1/2024 5:00 PM Pacific
Max Number of Applicants:
50
OPPORTUNITY
Open Date: November 21, 2024
Closing Date: December 1, 2024 at 5:00 p.m.
***This recruitment will close ahead of schedule if 50 applications are received before the advertised closing date***
POSITION: The City of Santa Maria is recruiting for an
Accounting Technician I
in the Utility Billing Division of the Finance Department. The ideal candidate is bilingual in English and Spanish and is a detail-oriented professional with strong financial record-keeping and customer service skills, preferably in a municipal or utility setting. They possess expertise in cash reconciliation, financial transactions, and data accuracy. This individual is skilled in handling customer inquiries, understands city policies and billing procedures, and effectively communicates complex information to community members and businesses. They are proactive, collaborative, and committed to high-quality service, aligning with the City of Santa Maria's standards.
Full Job Description: Accounting Technician I Bi-Weekly Salary Rate:
(Appointment at the appropriate level will depend upon qualifications and experience) $2,124.16 - $2,581.93
Required Submittals: 1. Online Application 2. Up-to-date Resume DUTIES
These duties are a representative example; position assignments may vary depending on the business needs of the department and organization.
This position: Leads daily Utility Billing Division operations such as handling financial duties and cash reconciliation, customer service requests, and managing additional projects as needed. Communicates city policies, rates, and fees to the public and City staff; addresses and resolves complex inquiries. Performs complex technical accounting duties establishing processes and maintenance of financial record Receives and classifies accounting data; coordinates the maintenance of journals and subsidiary ledgers, general ledgers, and related financial records. Prepares accounts receivable invoices, monitors aging of accounts receivable and prepares monthly past due notices. Prepares periodic statements and analyses of revenues and expenditures and compiles preliminary budget data. Prepares trial balances, working papers, and balance sheets; prepares complex statistical and financial reports. Assists with annual financial audits; calculates distribution of financial appropriations; assists in accounting studies and the compilation of cost estimates. Administers the procurement program; participates and/or coordinates in the preparation of warrants for payroll and payment of purchases. Processes requisitions and issues purchase orders. Develops, maintains, and controls data entered into the accounting system. Reviews departmental procedures with administration and other personnel, and answers questions regarding the accounting systems. Level II incumbents may serve as lead worker over entry level incumbents in the performance of these functions. Scope of assigned area will depend on departmental structure and is at the discretion of the Department Director. Upholds the values of the organization and has strong customer service orientation. Performs other related projects and duties as assigned. Demonstrates regular, reliable and punctual attendance. Individual Contributor: Incumbents should have a solid foundation of the following core competencies identified by the organization to be essential and listed in order of importance. (See the full definition of
Individual Contributor Competencies ).
Team Player
- Effective performers are team oriented, share resources, respond to requests, and support a spirit of cooperative effort. Customer Orientation
- Effective performers are in touch with community needs and review the organization through the eyes of Santa Maria residents. They go out of their way to anticipate needs. Integrity
- Effective performers think and act ethically and honestly, take responsibility for their actions and foster a work environment where integrity is rewarded. Communicativeness
- Effective performers recognize the essential value of continuous information exchange and the competitive advantage it brings. They actively seek information from a variety of sources and disseminate it in a variety of ways. They use modern technologies to access and circulate information, even across great distances. They take responsibility for ensuring that their people have the current and accurate information needed for success. Initiative
- Effective performers are proactive and take action without being prompted. They do not wait to be told what to do or when to do it. They see a need, take responsibility, and act on it. They make things happen. Composure
- Effective performers maintain emotional control, even under ambiguous or stressful circumstances, and demonstrate emotions appropriate to the situation. Functional/Technical Expertise
- Effective performers are knowledgeable and skilled in a functional specialty (e.g., finance, public works, planning, information technology, human resources, etc.), and remain current in their area of expertise. Problem Solving & Decision Making
- Effective performers identify problems, solve them, act decisively, and show good judgment. Learning Agility
- Effective performers continuously seek new knowledge, are curious, learn quickly, and use new information effectively. Drive/Energy
- Effective performers have a high level of energy and are ambitious and passionate about their role. They have stamina and endurance to maintain a fast pace. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
Accounting Technician I:
Ideally, two years of experience in a paraprofessional position in accounting; and Graduation from high school, and college or university coursework in accounting; and/or An equivalent combination of education and experience sufficient to successfully perform the essential duties of the job such as those listed above.
Current technical/professional knowledge of complex principles, methods, standards and techniques associated with the scope of work of a recognized profession, such as:
General or basic accounting; municipal budget preparation and monitoring; government purchasing procedures and inventory control methods; local, state, federal, and private grant program policies and accounting procedures. Effective verbal and interpersonal communication skills. Microsoft Office Suite (or equivalent). Use computer and other office equipment effectively.
Desired licenses and/or certifications associated with the assignment. Bilingual in English and Spanish is highly desired.
SELECTION PROCESS
The complete electronic application packet includes the online application and an uploaded resume. Incomplete applications will not be considered. Application Ranking: The application will be evaluated and scored. Candidate's final score and rank on the eligibility list will be determined by their complete application packet upon meeting the employment standards of the position.
Applicants who meet the employment standards will be considered for an interview with the hiring department. Applicants invited to an interview will be notified electronically at the email address indicated in their application. Therefore, it is the applicant's responsibility to provide an accurate email address and to allow their inbox to receive emails regarding this recruitment.
Prior to an offer of employment, applicants may undergo a background investigation to the satisfaction of the City.
If you are experiencing any technical (computer-related) difficulties or need help with attaching documents to your application, call the NEOGOV helpline for assistance at 1-855-524-5627Application Selection:
The following benefits vary by bargaining unit. For full benefit information please refer to the Memorandum of Understanding or compensation resolution available at
Retirement The City of Santa Maria is a member of the California Public Employees' Retirement System (CalPERS). Your benefit factor is determined by the retirement formula, age, service credit and final compensation. Based upon your bargaining unit and hire date the benefit factor will vary.
Health Insurance Medical Insurance is provided to employees and eligible dependents through the California Public Employees' Retirement System (CalPERS). There are four Preferred Provider Organizations (PPO's) and three Health Maintenance Organizations (HMO's) to choose from. The benefit amount varies per bargaining unit.
The City has a medical insurance benefit program which provides either payment towards the premium for the employee and eligible dependents, or cash payment if you and your dependent(s) already have health benefits. Evidence of major medical health insurance coverage is required for those employees who receive the cash payment. See Memorandum of Understanding for eligibility requirements.
Dental Insurance Dental Insurance is provided to employees and eligible dependents through The Standard covering 100% of Preventive; 90% of Basic; and 60% of Major with a minimal deductible. The plan includes a Max Builder option rewarding insured employees and their dependents who use only a portion of their annual dental benefit maximum. The benefit amount varies per bargaining unit.
Vision Insurance Vision Insurance is available to employees and eligible dependents. Coverage is through VSP and covers an annual Well Vision exam and an allowance towards prescription glasses. The benefit amount varies per bargaining unit.
Life Insurance and AD&D Coverage All employees working a minimum of thirty two (32) hours per week are eligible for Life and Accidental Death & Dismemberment (AD&D) coverage. Supplemental life, spousal and dependent child options are also available. The benefit amount varies per bargaining unit.
Short-Term & Long-Term Disability All employees working a minimum of thirty two (32) hours per week, excluding Sworn Police and Fire shall participate in the short-term and long-term disability plan with coverage up to 66 2/3% of salary. Sworn Police and Fire are covered through their respective bargaining unit.
Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) The City offers a flexible spending account option for Dependent Care and Health Care Expenses. With these plans, employees can choose to place a portion of their earnings into a personal reimbursement account on a pre-tax basis. Doing so lowers employees' taxable income for the year and allows them to pay for their qualified dependent care and eligible health care expenses with pre-tax dollars.
Employee Assistance Program
The City provides an Employee Assistance Program (EAP) through AETNA for all full and part time employees and their eligible dependents. The confidential EAP program can refer employees to professional counselors and services that can help resolve emotional health, family and work-life issues, or provide help with childcare and eldercare assistance, financial and legal services, identity theft recovery services and daily living services.
Wellness Program Offered to help employees gain knowledge, skills and motivation to improve the quality of their lives and well-being. The City's Wellness Program includes ergonomic evaluations, flu shots, and Wellness Workshops during lunch and after work. Access to the Paul Nelson Aquatics Center for employee and immediate family members. Access to the Weight room at the Abel Maldonado Community Youth Center for employee and immediate family members. Access to employee discounts and special offers on travel, entertainment, shopping, dining and services.
Mentorship Program
This professional development program of mentoring and job shadowing provides mentees with an opportunity to be mentored by experienced staff with the objective of developing specific skills and knowledge that will enhance the participants' leadership skills and promote professional growth.
Succession Planning The academies are offered to all employees including those that are not yet in a supervisory role, but are interested in becoming leaders within the organization as well as our executive management team who have an interest in honing their skills and helping to prepare our future leaders. In addition to multiple leadership academies, the City offers quarterly Speaker Series, a corporate Toastmasters club available for City employees, site tours of various departments, and more.
Deferred Compensation Employees may participate in the City's 457 Deferred Compensation Plan sponsored by either Empower or CalPERS Supplemental Income. The plan enables employees to save salary and earn interest on a tax-deferred basis. A City match is available based upon representation.
The City also provides an IRS approved 401(a) plan sponsored by Empower for managers represented by Non-Represented Full-Time Management & Confidential (NMAC).
Post Employment Health Plan (PEHP) Based upon your bargaining unit the City may participate in a PEHP plan that will provide reimbursement for out-of-pocket cost of qualified medical expenses such as prescription drugs, doctor co-pays, eyeglasses and cover the reimbursement of medical insurance premiums upon separation or retirement.
Holidays The City offers seven (7) paid holidays per year. In addition, based upon your bargaining unit a bank of floating holiday hours is available to be used at the employee's discretion.
Vacation The City initially offers two weeks of paid vacation per calendar year for all full time employees. Accrual rates increase thereafter based upon your bargaining unit.
Sick Leave Sick leave shall accrue a rate of eight hours for each month of continuous service, or approximately two weeks per year for all full time employees. Employees may use up to half of their annually accrued sick leave for family illness and up to five days (40 hours) per calendar year for bereavement leave.
Management Leave Management level employees may receive a prorated amount of management leave time each new calendar year.
Educational Incentive Program In addition to regular pay when education is in addition to the regular requirements of the job specifications and is work related.
Tuition Reimbursement Based on your bargaining unit, you may be reimbursed for tuition and book costs of approved job related courses. The maximum amount of tuition reimbursement in any calendar year will vary based upon your bargaining unit.
Auto Allowance Management level employees may receive auto allowance based upon the need of the position.
Telephone/PDA Stipend Management level employees may receive a telephone and/or PDA stipend based upon the need of the position.
Bilingual Pay Bilingual pay is provided to employees who are required by their department head to use both English and Spanish in communicating with the public while performing the duties of his/her position and who demonstrate appropriate skills in both speaking and understanding the Spanish language shall receive compensation. The benefit amount varies per bargaining unit.
01
Describe your level of experience providing customer service, and indicate the target populations you have interacted with.
02
Explain your level of experience with cash handling and cash reconciliation duties.
03
Indicate the total number of years that you have worked in government finance or utility billing.
Less than 1 year 1-2 years 3-5 years More than 5 years
Required Question