Federal Programs Specialist

Position Type:
Support Staff - District Based

Date Posted:
12/8/2025

Location:
District Office

Closing Date:
UNTIL FILLED
TITLE: Federal Programs Specialist

CLASSIFICATION: District Office

REPORTS TO: Director of Federal Programs

SUMMARY: The Federal Programs Specialist is responsible for performing a wide range of accounting and budgeting functions to ensure District compliance with generally accepted accounting principles, the Arizona Department of Education, and the State Uniform System of Financial Records (USFR). This position involves highly complex work requiring advanced computer skills, technical expertise, and specialized accounting knowledge. A strong understanding of federal and state grants requirements is essential.

The role also provides critical support for the district's federal and state grant programs.

PERFORMANCE RESPONSIBILITIES:

Collaborate on and prepare grant applications by providing fiscal and program support from the initial application and development stage through the grant's implementation, duration, and close-out process.

Collaborate in budget forecasting for future grant applications by maintaining detailed records of expenses and transactions across all grants.

Prepares and analyzes accounting records, financial statements, and other financial report to ensure accuracy and compliance with reporting requirements and procedures.

Updates and monitors financial systems, grant proposals, and budgets, including the review of grant applications.

Prepare and record General Ledger transfer entries and expense journal entries.

Maintain and analyze budgets, prepares periodic reports that compare budgeted costs to actual costs.

Monitor purchasing transactions to ensure compliance with federal and state grant requirements.

Reconcile and maintain adequate financial records for federal and state grant funds.

Maintain accurate records for audit purposes and work with district/school units to resolve compliance issues.

Compile financial reports and statements for federal project completions.

Ensure compliance with federal, state, and District regulations, policies, and accounting standards.

Participate in budget projections and new fiscal year preparations.

Collaborate with staff to develop and deliver professional development and guidance on federal program requirements, funding, and best practices.

Attend professional development to remain current on federal and state grants, purchasing, accounting, and budgeting procedures.

Performs other duties as assigned.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor's degree in accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or related field (preferred)
• Two (2) years of progressively responsible accounting or budgeting experience.
• Knowledge of Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP).
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and financial management systems.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.

SKILLS/KNOWLEDGE/ABILITIES:

• Knowledge of Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP)
• Experience with school district or governmental accounting.
• Familiarity with the Arizona Department of Education reporting requirements and USFR.
• Experience managing federal and state grant budgets, including Titles and 21st CCLC.
• Ability to analyze complex financial data and prepare clear, accurate reports.
• Strong communication and collaboration skills.
• Must be proficient with the keyboard and a 10 key calculator, as well as experienced with a computer and a variety of software (including working with spreadsheets - Excel, Access, and
  
  PowerPoint; and the ability to learn specialized School District Finance software is required.
• Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing is an essential requirement.
• Ability to work cooperatively with directors, supervisors, and other staff to ensure timely completion of assignments.

LICENSES OR CERTIFICATIONS:

Certified Public Accountant (preferred)

EXPERIENCE:

A minimum of five (5) years related accounting and budgeting experience is required.

WORKING CONDITIONS:

The working environment is the normal office setting.

TERMS OF EMPLOYMENT:

Twelve-month year, Professional Exempt, employee benefits in accordance with Board policies.

EVALUATION:

Performance to be evaluated in accordance with Board policy on evaluation of administrative staff.