Senior Accountant

Performs advanced professional accounting tasks, including creating, reviewing, auditing, and analyzing fiscal records and reports, as well as simultaneous coordination of several complex, varied functions, programs, or projects.

This description was prepared to indicate the kinds of activities and levels of work difficulty required of positions in this class. It is not intended as a complete list of specific duties and responsibilities.

* Manages specialty areas in accounting work and financial transaction systems. Communicates with and advises department directors and client departmental staff.

* Guides complex purchasing activities involving multiple accounts or excessive costs. Performs complex financial calculations and analysis involving manipulation of large amounts of data, which may be taken from multiple systems.

* Reviews and audits complex financial records and transactions; identifies and researches discrepancies, and resolves or makes recommendations for corrective actions. Consults with client groups to resolve accounting discrepancies and guide decision making.

* Addresses and resolves problems where interpretation of guidelines, data or procedures is necessary. Interprets and evaluates financial reporting requirements for various funding sources.

* Evaluates and audits internal controls to ensure accuracy of financial reporting and accounting processes.

* Reconciles complex discrepancies and reporting errors related to journal and accounting transactions, documents corrections within accounting systems, and performs or guides others through corrective actions required. Trains and alerts staff on proper procedures and use of financial systems.

* Performs debt accounting and reporting activities, including maintaining financial systems and records with regard to bonds and capitalized lease transactions and records.

* Develops annual budgets, analyzing any revenue by source. Provides cost analysis, and confirms budget detail in cooperation with program staff. Maintains and adjusts budgets through transfers.

* Manages financial aspects of grant funds received by client groups. Provides review and analysis of financial details related to grant funds and the grants management process; creates reports and gives updates, including providing analyses for management review.

* Analyzes financial performance, prepares financial reports according to required schedules, forecasts expenditures, guides management in fiscal compliance and analytical planning, and anticipates potential problems. Assists client groups with data submissions and compliance reporting.

* Prepares various financial statements such as balance sheets, revenue and cash flow statements, work papers on capital assets, investments and debt positions, and working with client groups to ensure financial statements and activities are accurate. Prepares sections of the City's Comprehensive Annual Financial Report (CAFR).

* Prepares budget-to-actual reports and other analyses as requested by client departments.

* Prepares specialized and ad-hoc financial reports, briefing papers, spreadsheets, and statements. Prepares comprehensive financial and accounting studies, and conducts assigned special projects related to financial procedures and processes.

* Works with external auditors to support the annual audit process.

* Performs related work as required.

Open Entry Requirements:

* Education:

Bachelor's degree in Accounting.

* Experience:

Three years of full performance professional level accounting experience.

* Equivalency:
We may accept different combinations of education and experience. We welcome job seekers with relevant backgrounds to apply.

Licenses and

Certifications:

* None

Applicants must first meet the minimum qualifications to be invited to take the examination. Those who pass the examination will then go on the hiring list.

The examination will consist of multiple-choice questions.

Possible subjects covered in the examination:

* General Accounting

* Computer Skills

This is an online examination that will require a computer. If you do not have access to a computer, please notify Civil Service so that one may be provided. Computer reservations can also be made through your local public library.

Examination instructions and links will be emailed to qualified applicants on July 22nd, 2026. The testing window is July 23rd - July 27th.

Please note:

The email will come from City of Spokane ().

For information on what to expect with the hiring process, a test information guide, and frequently asked questions, please visit our website.

Upon request, at time of application, City of Spokane will provide alternative accessible tests to individuals with disabilities that impair manual, sensory, or speaking skills needed to take the test, unless the test is intended to measure those skills.

We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity within our organization. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender identity, sexual…