Principal Accounting Technician - Transportation Services

Job Summary

Performs a variety of accounting tasks, involving the general ledger, accounts payable, accounts receivable, inventory, and procurement; verifies proper accounting codes are used. Compiles reports, runs operating statements, analyzes report data, and assists managers with understanding financial data related to their program areas. The employee is responsible for a number of monthly reports both internal and external that trigger funding to the county. Employee assists with implementing, testing, and upgrading features and functionality in the ERP accounting software. Employee will use NOVUS software for trip booking for non-emergency medical transportation administration. Employee will also use Department of Human Services MN-ITS system for verifications and updates of qualified residents.

Job Description

ESSENTIAL DUTIES

• Codes invoices, procurement card statements, and cash receipts in a multi-division, multi-department organization that uses activity-based accounting; finds and corrects any coding errors. 

• Creates accounts receivable invoices derived from an analysis of various complex, financial transactions involving various funds; adheres to strict applicable state, local, and federal statutes regarding funding requests. 

• Verifies fleet accounting data and creates monthly journal entries for each county division. 

• Runs financial statements and regularly reviews them with managers.

• Prepares and submits MN special fuels tax returns and other various monthly state and federal reports in a timely manner. 

• Collects, compiles, analyzes, and distributes financial data as needed. 

• Reviews financial data, creates reports or tools to assist others with interpretation and analysis of the data. 

• Makes collections calls or sends letters regarding collection of fees/charges. 

• Assists others (e.g., auditors) with procedural questions, documentation, and physical inventory. 

• Assists with budget preparation, including gathering supporting documentation for budget meetings and entering data into the ERP's budget module.

• Assists in Mobility Management Unit with customer service and entry of data into scheduling software NOVUS MED.

• Collects and allocates County Ditch expenses. 

• Creates ERP and other program queries. 

• Performs a variety of AP, AR, procurement, inventory control, system maintenance, and data entry-oriented activities for the creation and upkeep of financial and program data. 

• Works the hours and/or shifts assigned and begins and ends work on time. 

• Performs other related duties as required or assigned.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
Requires equivalency of an associate's degree in accounting and one year of related experience. A reliable form of transportation for the performance of work responsibilities is required. 

PREFERRED QUALIFICATION(S)

Experience with Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) financial systems desirable.

SUPERVISORY CONTROLS

The employee is under general guidance and direction from the Administrative Services Director. Work is performed according to established department guidelines and procedures as well as accounting and auditing standards as determined by county, state or federal regulations. The employee exercises considerable independent judgment in implementing new work methods and procedures.

CORE COMPETENCIES AND ABILITIES
Customer Service- Delivers government services in a respectful, responsive, and solution-oriented manner.

Communication - Is always clear about what we're doing and why we're doing it.

Collaboration - Works with partners – communities, schools, faith groups, private business, and non-profit agencies – to see that services are not duplicated but rather are complimentary, aligned, and provided by the partners who can deliver the service most effectively.

Stewardship - Works proactively to make investments, guided by resident input, which will transform lives, communities, and government.

Empowerment - Works with individuals and families to affirm strengths, develop skills, restore hope, and promote self-reliance.

Resiliency - Fosters public preparedness and responds when families and communities face health and safety emergencies.

Innovation - Takes informed risks to deliver services more effectively and learns from successes and failures.

Knowledge - Knowledge of general accounting principles and techniques.

Knowledge of the fundamentals of government finance.

Knowledge of fiscal policies and budgetary procedures.

Knowledge of various accounting and finance software applications.

Knowledge of state and local guidelines related to accounting practices.

Knowledge and understanding of and respect for the diversity of customers, coworkers, and supervisors, including individuals with a disability or whose first language may be other than English.

Abilities –Ability to maintain complex financial records, prepare financial reports independently, and audit financial data.

Ability to make mathematical computations rapidly and accurately.

Ability to understand and carry out oral and written instructions.

Ability to speak, present, and interact in public arenas with composure, professionalism, and discretion.

Ability to use MS Office software and various accounting programs for the performance of essential duties.

Ability to use appropriate discretion in dealing with matters of a confidential nature.

WORK ENVIRONMENT AND PHYSICAL DEMANDS
Typical characteristics of the regular, ongoing work environment of this position requires inside work, typically in an office setting.

Physical activities include sedentary to light work: Reaching, sitting, standing, walking, pushing, lifting, pulling, fingering, grasping, feeling, stooping, talking, hearing, seeing, and repetitive motions. Lifts and/or navigates up to 35 pounds on a routine basis in handling files and equipment necessary for performing the essential duties of the job.

SELECTION PROCESS

Selection for this position will be based on a minimum qualifications screening and rating of training and experience. Top candidates will be forwarded to hiring manager or supervisor for consideration for interview and/or additional assessments. Final selection will include a background check and approval by the County Board.