Under general direction, to perform a variety of governmental accounting, auditing, and/or data processing functions in the maintenance of accounting records for City departments, programs and special funds. DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS: The Accountant/ Auditor is the third level of the accounting series. It differs from the lower class of Accounting Specialist in that the Accountant/ Auditor interprets policies for staff and the general public and performs higher level accounting functions including general ledger and compiling and analyzing financial data for compliance with regulations and policies. The Accountant/ Auditor differs from the next higher class of Senior Accountant in that the latter is a management level classification and performs the most advanced and complex accounting tasks within the Finance Department. Examples of Duties ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS: Essential functions, as defined under the Americans with Disabilities Act, may include any of the following representative duties, knowledge, and skills. Factors such as regular attendance at the job are not routinely listed in job descriptions, but are an essential function. Essential duties and responsibilities may include, but are not limited to, the following:Perform basic accounting activities, including general ledger, accounts payable and receivable, payroll, grants, and special funds. Perform work in compliance with state and federal regulations, City policies and procedures, and government accounting standards. Maintain and reconcile accounting records, research financial issues, and resolve discrepancies within scope of authority and training; duties may vary according to job assignment. Maintain financial records and associated accounting systems. Process transactions, update accounts, compile documentation, and generate reports; review and validate data. Maintain additional accounting and technical transaction databases as needed; review and process payroll data. Compile, summarize, and analyze financial data, and prepare and file special financial reports. Monitor accounting documents for accuracy, completeness, and compliance with City policies and practices. May provide training and assistance to subordinate staff. Support the relationship between the City of Monterey and the general public by demonstrating courteous and cooperative behavior when interacting with citizens, visitors, and City staff. Maintain confidentiality of work-related issues and City information. Perform other job-related duties within the scope of this job classification as assigned. Typical Qualifications MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS: Education: Completion of a Bachelor’s degree from a college or university in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or a closely related field. Experience: Two (2) years experience in governmental accounting. An equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered. Supplemental Info Knowledge of:City policies and procedures. State and federal laws, statutes, rules, and regulations governing municipal accounting functions. Generally Accepted Accounting Principles for Public Sector financial management. Business and personal computers, and financial spreadsheet software applications. Skill in:Interpreting and applying state and federal accounting rules and regulations, and City policies. Monitoring financial documents, and assuring compliance with regulatory requirements. Reviewing interrelated financial and technical records, and identifying and reconciling errors. Establishing and maintaining effective working relationships with co-workers. Communicating effectively verbally and in writing. PHYSICAL DEMANDS AND WORKING ENVIRONMENT: Physical Demands. Standing & Walking – Primarily sedentary classification although standing in work areas and walking between work areas may be required. Sitting - Ability to work in a seated position at a computer station for extended periods of time. Lifting - Ability to safely lift up to 20 pounds; this requirement includes bending at knees to facilitate proper lifting techniques. Manual Dexterity - Ability to perform multiple work activities requiring a significant level of physical and mental coordination, such as operating a computer keyboard; copying, and adding machines. Visual – Ability to read printed materials and view a computer screen for long periods. Hearing and Speech - Ability to communicate in person, before groups, and over the telephone. Mobility – Ability to work in a standard office setting and operate a motor vehicle to visit various meeting sites, reach, carry, push, pull, stoop, and bend. Environmental Elements. Employees work in an office environment with moderate noise levels, controlled temperature conditions and no direct exposure to hazardous physical substances. Employees may interact with upset staff and/or public and private representatives in interpreting and enforcing departmental policies and procedures. DISASTER SERVICE WORKERS:All City of Monterey employees are designated Disaster Service Workers through state and local law (California Government Code Section 3100-3109). Employment with the City requires the affirmation of a loyalty oath to this effect. Employees are required to complete all Disaster Service Worker-related training as assigned, and to return to work as ordered in the event of an emergency.