Position Type:
CENTRAL ADMINISTRATION/STAFF ACCOUNTANT

Date Posted:
7/9/2019

Location:
Central Office

Date Available:
08/09/2019

Closing Date:
08/09/2019


SUMMARY DESCRIPTION OF CLASSIFICATION: The Portland Public Schools (PPS) is a diverse urban school district with more than 1,200 employees serving about 6,800 students. The district's Finance Department supports the educational mission of PPS by facilitating effective and efficient use of resources while providing a high level of customer service to school staff and district administrators. As an integral member of the Finance team, the Staff Accountant will ensure the safeguarding of district assets, provide timely and appropriate financial analyses, and facilitate accurate financial reporting. The position supports the accounting operations and all general accounting functions of the district, including general ledger administration, reconciliations, and auditing activities. The work requires considerable technical judgment and analytical capabilities to ensure accurate management of a complex mix of funds, as well as strong communication skills in conveying financial information to audiences with varying levels of financial acumen. The Portland Public Schools offers competitive compensation and an exceptional benefits package.

ESSENTIAL JOB DUTIES:

• Supports the accounting, reporting, and auditing activities of the School Department to ensure compliance with applicable laws, regulations, policies, contracts, and GAAP.Coordinates the centralized accounting and financial reporting for assigned portfolio, including grants and other special revenue funds and school-based activity funds.Performs financial monitoring and analyses and partners with key personnel at all levels of the district to resolve issues and support proper and timely expenditure of funds.Performs account reconciliations and prepares journal entries as needed.Compiles documentation and analysis necessary for independent auditors to complete the annual audit.Prepares invoices/billings for grants and other special revenue funds.Contributes to business process enhancements and continuous improvement of internal control procedures and documentation.Develops positive relationships to foster a collaborative working environment.Performs other finance and accounting duties as assigned.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATION STANDARDS

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:

• Substantial knowledge of generally accepted accounting principles and practices and their applications in complex accounting environments.Knowledge of financial management and accounting software systems. Experience with Munis a definite plus.Advanced skills in Excel.Strong analytical and problem solving skills.Strong work ethic with an emphasis on organization and attention to detail.Excellent written and oral communications skills.

EDUCATION, TRAINING, AND EXPERIENCE:

• Bachelor's Degree in Accounting, Business, Finance or related field.3 - 5 years of related experience, with public sector/education accounting experience preferred.Experience performing financial analyses and reconciliations.Other combinations of applicable education, training, and experience may be considered.

CERTIFICATE AND LICENSE REQUIREMENTS:

• Certified Public Accountant desirable but not required.Maine State fingerprint (CHRC) authorization. Cost $70. Website: https://www.maine.gov/doe/cert/fingerprinting

PHYSICAL DEMANDS: None

OVERTIME ELIGIBLE: No

Portland Public Schools is committed to maintaining a work and learning environment free from discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, pregnancy, gender, sexual orientation, marital/civil union status, ancestry, place of birth, age, citizenship status, veteran status, political affiliation or disability, as defined and required by state and federal laws.