Engineering Grant Accountant

City of Dubuque, Iowa; Dubuque (IA); On-site; USD 70,000 - 95,000; Full time

Job summary

The City of Dubuque, Iowa seeks a Grant Accountant to manage grants, capital projects, and related budgeting within the Engineering Department. This role requires strong accounting skills, independent judgment, and a collaborative approach to support budget development, compliance, and timely reporting.

You will work with project managers, coordinate with state and federal agencies, and contribute to annual audits and financial forecasting.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field.
• Experience in budgeting, accounting, and project management.
• Equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Knowledge of governmental budgeting, accounting, and payroll principles.

Responsibilities

• Monitor grants, loans, and capital projects.
• Prepare financial reports for federal/state agencies.
• Coordinate grant draws and supporting documentation.
• Maintain accounting systems related to grants and capital projects.
• Assist with audits and provide guidance on grant management.

Skills

Office procedures

Pivot tables

Documentation management

Analytical skills

Education

Bachelor's degree in Accounting/Finance

Job description

Perform work of considerable difficulty in grant, capital project, and general accounting and reporting. This position examines and prepares budget estimates for completeness, accuracy, and conformance with grant and loan procedures and regulations. The Engineering Grant Accountant analyzes budgeting and accounting reports, performs grant and loan budgeting, and utilizes analytical and independent judgment in support of budget development and management.

The position also provides technical and financial assistance to Engineering Department project managers and performs other related duties as assigned.

The ideal candidate will:

• Follow a management style that values collaboration and input.
• Demonstrate a commitment to equity, problem-solving, and partnership development.
• Work effectively as part of a team.
• Thrive in an organization that values service, integrity, responsibility, innovation, and teamwork.

Distinguishing Features of the Position

This position is responsible for:

• Monitoring and reporting on grants, loans, and capital projects.
• Providing quality assurance and quality control oversight.
• Maintaining accounting systems related to grants and capital projects.
• Supporting city departments with grant and loan procedures.
• Working with state and federal agencies.
• Providing information required for annual audits.

The employee reports directly to the Civil Engineer III (Water Resource Team) while serving multiple leaders within the Engineering Department. Work is performed with a high degree of independence and judgment.

Grant Management & Financial Administration

• Consult with stakeholders regarding grant administration and budgeting.
• Interpret federal requirements related to allowable and unallowable grant costs.
• Determine grant-specific indirect costs monthly.
• Develop and maintain procedures for accurate financial reporting and grant monitoring.
• Prepare quarterly and annual reports required by grant agreements.
• Coordinate and prepare grant and loan draws and supporting documentation.
• Submit grant draws to state and federal agencies.
• Analyze grant agreements and compliance requirements.
• Participate in grant application processes and grant setup.
• Provide guidance and support regarding grant management and reporting requirements.
• Review and direct accounting entries related to grants.
• Reconcile grant reimbursement records and financial transactions.
• Prepare financial reports for federal agencies.
• Maintain financial databases and grant-related reporting systems.
• Perform financial forecasting and budget projections.
• Monitor expenditures and revenue reports and recommend corrective actions.
• Participate in fund balancing and reconciliation activities.
• Prepare audit workpapers and coordinate audit documentation.
• Assist with annual audit preparation.

Budget Development & Analysis

• Assist in preparing long-range financial projections for capital projects.
• Support development of annual operating and capital improvement budgets.
• Review and analyze departmental budget submissions.
• Prepare financial and budgetary reports.
• Complete special analytical assignments.

Administrative & Operational Duties

• Compile and analyze financial and project data.
• Coordinate operational activities.
• Operate standard office equipment.
• Prepare correspondence, reports, and memoranda.
• Handle confidential information with discretion.
• Explain policies and procedures to staff and stakeholders.
• Respond to inquiries and service requests.
• Participate in professional development and ongoing training.
• Participate in the City's intercultural competency training program.
• Follow all City policies and procedures.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

Administrative

• Knowledge of modern office procedures and accounting software.
• Proficiency with spreadsheets, including pivot tables and complex formulas.
• Ability to manage files, records, forms, and documentation.
• Skill in operating standard office equipment.

Customer Service

• Strong verbal, written, and interpersonal communication skills.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships.
• Commitment to providing high-quality customer service.
• Ability to work effectively in a team environment.
• Knowledge of governmental budgeting, accounting, and payroll principles.
• Understanding of public finance practices and procedures.
• Ability to apply accounting principles accurately and effectively.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to conduct independent research and analysis.
• Commitment to producing accurate, high-quality work.

Organization

• Ability to prioritize a substantial workload while meeting deadlines.
• Strong attention to detail and organizational skills.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university with major coursework in Accounting, Finance, or a related field; and
• Experience in budgeting, accounting, and project management; or
• An equivalent combination of education and experience.

Preferred Qualifications

Why Join MGT?

At MGT, we help government and public-sector organizations solve complex challenges through innovative consulting, technology, and data-driven solutions.