Senior Accountant

Do you have a passion for numbers, a knack for solving complex problems, and a talent for communicating financial information? The City of Cupertino is seeking a motivated and collaborative Senior Accountant to join our Finance Department!

Whether you're an experienced accounting professional or ready to take the next step in your career, this is an exciting opportunity to expand your expertise, take on greater responsibilities, and make a meaningful impact. From financial reporting and audits to improving accounting processes and mentoring colleagues, we're looking for someone who brings strong analytical skills, sound judgment, and a willingness to learn and lead.

If you're ready to grow professionally while contributing to a dynamic and supportive team, we encourage you to apply.

The Senior Accountant performs advanced professional accounting duties requiring expertise in governmental accounting systems, practices and principles. The Senior Accountant assists in managing financial records, preparing complex financial reports, overseeing major accounting functions such as accounts payable, accounts receivables, payroll, and business licensing, and supports year-end close, audits, and budget maintenance. The Senior Accountant also assists the Finance Manager with Audit Committee reports and presentations, provides technical guidance to staff, and supervises staff in the Finance Manager's absence or as needed.

This is the advanced journey-level classification within the accounting series. Positions in this class differ from those in the immediately lower class of Accountant II by the scope, diversity, and complexity of assignments and by its role in supporting divisional leadership. The Senior Accountant may step in to supervise staff or handle management responsibilities in the absence of the Finance Manager and is expected to exercise significant independent judgment and technical expertise.

Receives direction from the Finance Manager. May supervise Accountants, Accounting Technician, and Account Clerks in the absence of or to support the Finance Manager.

Management reserves the right to add, modify, change or rescind the work assignments of different positions and to make reasonable accommodations so that qualified employees can perform the essential functions of the job.

• Establish and maintain a variety of ledgers and other financial documents ensuring accuracy and compliance with regulations.
• Supervise and evaluate the work of subordinate professional, technical, and clerical personnel.
• Assist in the preparation of the City’s annual budget.
• Prepare and submit internal and external reports, including annual financial statements, State Controller Reports, and claim statements for state‑mandated costs.
• Conduct comprehensive financial studies and analyses, including projections for expenditures, revenue, and other fiscal activities.
• Assist the Finance Manager in preparing reports and presentations for the Audit Committee, including analysis of financial data and updates on audit findings and resolutions.
• Issue correcting and adjusting journal entries and review audit journal entries prepared by staff for accuracy.
• Interpret and implement financial policies, procedures, and regulations related to accounting systems and operations.
• Provide technical accounting expertise and support to other Finance Department functions.
• Oversee payments to paying agents for City bonds.
• Serve as the primary liaison with external auditors.
• Support audit processes by coordinating with external auditors, providing necessary documentation, and resolving inquiries.
• Develop and recommend improvements to financial systems, policies, and procedures to enhance accuracy and efficiency.
• Prepare materials for presentations to the City Council and other stakeholders as needed.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

• Advanced governmental accounting principles, practices and standards (e.g., GAAP and GASB).
• Financial reporting and budget preparation.
• Supervisory principles and techniques, including training and performance evaluation.
• Application of data processing and accounting systems to financial management.
• Regulations and best practices for municipal finance and accounting.
• Audit processes, including preparation of schedules and working with external auditors.

• Provide technical guidance and supervise accounting staff when needed or in the absence of the Finance Manager.
• Analyze and evaluate…