Accounting Manager

City And Job Overview

The City of Garden Grove is now accepting applications for the position of ACCOUNTING MANAGER
. Under the direction of the Finance Director or Deputy Finance Director, the Accounting Manager leads the Fiscal Services Division of the Finance Department, plans, manages, and coordinates complex accounting functions. The position oversees supervisory and professional-level staff and performs advanced accounting work in areas including general accounting, payroll, accounts payable, accounts receivable, debt, fixed assets, grants, and capital improvement project accounting.

The Accounting Manager is responsible for internal and external financial reporting and compliance, annual and special program audits, and the review and maintenance of internal controls.

• Plan, organize, and direct the City’s accounting operations, including general ledger, payroll, accounts payable, grants, capital projects, fixed assets, and cash management.
• Establish, implement, and maintain accounting policies, procedures, and internal controls in compliance with GAAP, GASB, GFOA best practices, California Government Code, grant requirements, and debt covenants.
• Manage and optimize the City’s ERP/financial systems.
• Lead system enhancements and process improvement initiatives.
• Ensure accurate, timely financial reporting across all City funds.
• Oversee preparation of Financial Reports, including the Annual Comprehensive Financial Report (ACFR).
• Coordinate and serve as the primary liaison with external auditors; manage audits and implement corrective actions.
• Manage banking activity and monthly reconciliations.
• Oversee grant accounting, capital asset accounting, and long‑term debt accounting, including pensions and other post‑employment benefits (OPEB).
• Provide financial analysis, specialized reports, and technical accounting guidance to City departments and external agencies.
• Coordinate and participate in the development and administration of the City’s operating and capital budgets.
• Assist with revenue forecasting and financial analysis.
• Supervise, train, and evaluate accounting staff.
• Establish performance standards, provide coaching, and administer discipline as necessary.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Education and Experience:

• Minimum of a bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Business Administration, Management, Commerce or a closely related field, with advanced accounting, auditing, cost accounting, EDP accounting, and governmental accounting coursework.
• Five (5) years of progressively responsible professional‑level accounting experience, including at least two (2) years in a supervisory capacity.
• Experience in government agencies is highly desirable.

Other Requirements:

• Subject to a review of personal finance and credit history.
• Possession of a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) license is highly desirable.
• A valid California class “C” driver’s license is highly desirable.

• Public agency finance principles, including governmental and fund accounting, GASB standards, auditing, and financial reporting.
• Governmental accounting operations such as general ledger, fixed assets, debt and investment accounting, grants and compliance, and internal controls.
• Public agency budget development and administration, and sound financial management policies and procedures.
• Financial systems and ERP implementation and operations.
• Advanced analytical, reporting, and Excel/financial systems skills.
• Recordkeeping principles and procedures.
• Employee supervision and training, including work planning, assignment, performance evaluation, and staff development.
• Operational and strategic planning as applied to fiscal services.
• Applicable federal, state, and local laws, regulations, and requirements governing municipal financial operations.

• Prepare complex financial statements and reports in compliance with GAAP, GAAS, and applicable standards.
• Develop, implement, and evaluate internal controls and ensure compliance with federal, state, GASB, and local laws, regulations, and policies.
• Manage complex projects, process improvements, and system evaluations to enhance efficiency and effectiveness.
• Analyze operations…