Accounting Technician , II, III or IV

The Accounting Technician performs a variety of paraprofessional accounting, fiscal, and administrative duties in support of the financial operations of the McDowell County Department of Social Services (DSS). Work involves processing financial transactions, maintaining accurate financial records, preparing reports, and assisting with budgetary and reimbursement functions in accordance with county, state, and federal guidelines.

• Accounting Technician I: $35,124
• Accounting Technician II: $38,724
• Accounting Technician III: $42,696
• Accounting Technician IV: $47,064

Employees in this class are responsible for technical accounting tasks requiring accuracy, attention to detail, and knowledge of governmental accounting principles. Work includes independent responsibility for assigned fiscal programs, reconciliations, and reporting deadlines. The position requires frequent communication with internal staff, vendors, county finance, and state program representatives.

• Processes accounts payable, including invoice review, coding, data entry, and payment disbursement in compliance with county and DSS procedures.
• Performs accounts receivable duties, including receipting, deposits, and reconciliation of incoming funds.
• Maintains a variety of fiscal records, ledgers, spreadsheets, and databases for assigned program areas (e.g., IV-E, Energy Programs, Child Support, Adult Services, Work First).
• Prepares monthly, quarterly, and annual financial reports required by DSS, McDowell County Finance, and the NC Department of Health and Human Services.
• Assists with budget development, monitoring, and tracking of expenditures by program category.
• Performs bank reconciliations, voucher reconciliation, and grant reimbursement submissions.
• Verifies accuracy of financial documentation submitted by program staff; ensures compliance with appropriate funding sources.
• Compiles and submits state and federal reimbursement claims (e.g., DSS-1571, DSS-2055, transportation claims).
• Provides fiscal support for agency contracts, vendor agreements, and procurement processes.
• Assists auditors by preparing requested documentation and responding to inquiries.
• Maintains confidentiality of sensitive information in accordance with DSS policies and state/federal regulations.
• Provides backup support to other fiscal team members as needed.
• Participates in trainings, county meetings, and state fiscal updates.
• Performs related duties as required.

• Working knowledge of bookkeeping and accounting principles, practices, and procedures, especially in a governmental setting.
• Working knowledge of state DSS funding streams, reimbursement processes, and allowable expenditures.
• Skill in the use of financial software, spreadsheets, Excel, and agency databases.
• Ability to interpret fiscal policies and apply regulations accurately.
• Ability to research, correct, and reconcile accounting discrepancies.
• Strong organizational skills with attention to detail and deadlines.
• Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing.
• Ability to maintain effective working relationships with employees, county departments, vendors, and state partners.

• High school diploma or GED required.
• Associate’s degree in accounting, business administration, or related field preferred.
• Two (2) years of experience in bookkeeping or accounting work
  , preferably in a government or human services environment; or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

• Must possess or be able to obtain NC Notary Public within 6 months of employment (if required by agency needs).
• Must pass a pre-employment background check and comply with all McDowell County and DSS personnel policies.
• Continuing education may be required for state fiscal compliance.

• Work is generally performed in an office environment and may require extended periods of sitting, data entry, and computer use.
• Must be able to lift up to 20 pounds occasionally for file boxes or materials.