Financial Specialist - City of Maize

Job Summary

The Finance Specialist performs a variety of accounting, payroll, utility billing, and financial administration functions in support of the City's financial operations. This position assists with maintaining accurate financial records, processing payroll, administering utility accounts, preparing financial reports, and supporting financial management systems. The Finance Specialist exercises sound judgment, maintains strict confidentiality, and works collaboratively with City staff, vendors, and the public to ensure efficient and accurate financial operations.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Accounting and Financial Administration

• Assist the Director of Finance with accounting functions including bank reconciliations, utility billing worksheets, account reconciliations, journal entries, and general ledger maintenance.
• Enter, process, and maintain financial data within the City's accounting and financial management systems.
• Maintain accurate financial records and supporting documentation in accordance with accounting standards and audit requirements.
• Research, analyze, and reconcile discrepancies between general ledger and subsidiary accounts.
• Assist in preparing monthly financial statements, financial reports, forecasts, and other financial analyses.
• Support annual audit preparation and year-end financial processing activities.

Payroll Administration

• Process payroll including regular payroll runs, direct deposits, manual checks, corrections, and related payroll transactions.
• Enter and maintain payroll deductions including taxes, direct deposits, garnishments, child support, deferred compensation, insurance premiums, and other authorized deductions.
• Maintain payroll records and ensure compliance with applicable federal, state, and local regulations.
• Assist employees with payroll-related questions and concerns.
• Maintain strict confidentiality of employee payroll and personnel-related financial information.

Utility Billing

• Maintain water, wastewater, and stormwater utility accounts and associated billing records.
• Process utility account changes, adjustments, and service requests.
• Assist customers with utility billing inquiries and explain City utility rate structures, billing practices, and payment options.
• Pursue collection of delinquent utility accounts, including preparation of notices, correspondence, and related documentation.
• Coordinate with customers and City departments to resolve billing discrepancies and account issues.

Organizational Support

• Provide professional and courteous customer service to residents, businesses, vendors, and City staff.
• Promote the goodwill and positive image of the City of Maize through professional interactions and service delivery.
• Assist with administrative and financial projects supporting City operations.
• Provide occasional support to the Customer Service Clerks for coverage and continuation of City services.
• Maintain effective working relationships with City staff, elected officials, vendors, auditors, regulatory agencies, and members of the public.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Knowledge of accounting principles, payroll administration, bookkeeping practices, financial reporting, and utility billing processes.
• Ability to accurately process and maintain financial and payroll records while maintaining confidentiality.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to identify, research, and resolve discrepancies.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, including Excel, and other accounting and financial management software.
• Ability to prepare reports, maintain records, and organize financial information.
• Strong customer service and interpersonal skills with the ability to effectively communicate with residents, employees, vendors, and regulatory agencies.
• Ability to interpret and apply policies, procedures, and applicable regulations.
• Strong organizational and time management skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines.
• Ability to work independently while collaborating effectively with City staff and external partners.
• Ability to maintain discretion and confidentiality when handling sensitive financial and personnel information.

Education and Experience

Required

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Two years of experience in accounting, payroll administration, finance, bookkeeping, utility billing, or a related financial field.

Preferred

• Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, Public Administration, or a related field.
• Experience working in local government finance or utility billing operations.
• Experience with governmental accounting software and financial reporting systems.
• Experience processing payroll and administering payroll deductions.

Pay: $27.12 - $38.33 per hour