Accountant - Fire Cost Accountant

Accountant 3 – Fire Cost Accountant (PCN 10-9821)

Recruited by the Department of Natural Resources, Division of Forestry & Fire Protection in Palmer, AK.

The Fire Cost Accountant plays a pivotal role in the financial management of the Fire Protection program, overseeing Operating and Capital budgets, monitoring and analyzing expenditures, preparing detailed financial reports, reconciling accounts, and providing forecasts to aid in strategic decision-making.

• Supervise a team of three accounting technicians, ensuring accurate cost tracking for in‑state fires, reviewing daily entries, troubleshooting discrepancies, and guiding best practices.
• Manage the crossbill process, coordinating with multiple agencies to facilitate timely and accurate wildland fire billing, negotiating rates, verifying shared costs, and resolving billing issues.
• Develop and implement policy, research industry standards, identify improvements, and draft new procedures to enhance financial efficiency and accountability.
• Act as a liaison with interagency partners and stakeholders, participating in wildfire cost committees, advocating for the Division’s interests, and collaborating on cost‑management strategies.

• Cost Accounting – knowledge of cost accounting principles, allocation, depreciation, and unit cost.
• Auditing – knowledge of GAAS and procedures for financial, compliance, economy, efficiency, and program audits.
• Control of Funds – knowledge of principles and procedures for maintaining accountability of appropriations and fund accounts.

• Analysis and Assessment – use IT to access, collect, analyze, maintain, and disseminate data.
• Analytical Thinking/Problem Solving – apply logical, systematic, sequential approach to problems.
• Oral and Written Communication – effective communication to various audiences, clear presentations.
• Principles of Accounting – knowledge of GAAP, double entry, accrual accounting, full cycle, worksheets, financial statements.
• Technical Competence – apply knowledge from formal training or on‑the‑job experience to perform tasks and advise others.

• Competitive compensation and comprehensive benefits.
• Ongoing training and career advancement opportunities.
• Professional growth within a mission‑driven environment dedicated to protecting Alaska’s forests and resources.
• Inclusive, supportive workplace encouraging innovation and professional development.

The position is located at 101 S Airport Road, Palmer, AK. The Division promotes teamwork, camaraderie, and a fast‑paced emergency‑response environment with diverse talents and backgrounds.

The State of Alaska complies with Title I of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). The State of Alaska is an equal‑opportunity employer.