Financial Accountant III (Section Manager/Specialist)

State of California Office of the Controller; California (MO); Hybrid; USD 60,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a Financial Accountant III to lead a team in managing complex financial accounting functions. This role involves overseeing financial reporting, budget management, and ensuring compliance with state regulations. The ideal candidate will possess strong analytical skills and a deep understanding of accounting principles. This position offers a collaborative work environment with opportunities for professional growth and development. Join a dedicated team that plays a crucial role in maintaining the financial integrity of California, contributing to the state's economic stability and transparency.

Benefits

Hybrid Telework Options

Free Parking

Professional Development Opportunities

Collaborative Work Environment

Qualifications

• Experience in complex financial accounting processes.
• Knowledge of governmental accounting standards.
• Ability to manage financial reporting and compliance.

Responsibilities

• Lead and direct financial accounting staff in complex tasks.
• Oversee statewide financial reporting and compliance.
• Analyze financial transactions and reconcile records.

Skills

Accounting Principles

Financial Reporting

Budget Management

Data Analysis

Legislation Interpretation

Problem Solving

Team Leadership

Education

Bachelor's Degree in Accounting

Master's Degree in Finance

Tools

Microsoft Excel

FI$Cal

Microsoft Access

Job description

Section Manager/Specialist
FINANCIAL ACCOUNTANT III

Final Filing Date: 5/16/2025

Job Description and Duties

Under the general direction of the Bureau Chief, a Financial Accountant IV, as a Section Manager/Specialist, the Financial Accountant III provides direction to supervisory and professional level financial accounting staff performing critically sensitive and complex accounting activities and processes.

(Candidate must perform the following functions with or without reasonable accommodations.)

• Lead, plan, organize, direct, coordinate, instruct, and review the work of supervisory and professional financial accounting staff responsible for complex financial accounting, forecasting, allocations, cash management, reporting, and reconciling of the statewide financial activities.
• Establish and compilefinancial accounting records for governmental and non-governmental cost funds and administrating fiscal legal authority of statewide financial appropriations for the annual operating budget and special legislation for state agencies, departments, boards, commissions, and universities.
• Implement the annual operating budget to comply with Cash and Budgetary/Legal Basis financial accounting requirement impacting statewide financial accounting and report, and the State’s annual financial statements.
• Preparevarious program financial accounting reports, statistical information, and financial data for use by Division management, the Executive Office, other state entities, or other interested parties.
• Analyzeand processfinancial accounting transactions including cash transfers, remittances, payments, loans and allocations.
• Reconcile Fiscal System financial records to ensure accuracy of statewide financial records which result in financial statements and accurate reporting of the State’s financial position, resolving outstanding reconciling items.
• Overseethe review of legislative process and review staff analysis of legislation for workload impact to the Bureau’s operations.
• Directstaff and manageaction plans to implement new internal and external requirements.
• Oversee financial accounting consulting services for the statewide comprehensive centralized financial accounting system, responding to auditor inquiries regarding the Budget Act, Payroll accounting, fiscal operations, and procedures for statewide year-end closing of the financial accounting records.
• During pre- and post-implementation for Book of Record (BOR) initiative, perform highly complex and technical analysis, research to determine appropriate action, develop alternative solutions, provide support for recommendations, and implement solutions.
• Develop test scripts, scenarios, and conditions to ensure system and process integrity.
• Evaluate and/or assess staff performance and determine needed training.
• Identify problems to be resolved or goals to be accomplished.
• Identify and attempt to correct performance deficiencies in subordinate staff.
• Provide guidance and motivation to solve performance problems and as required, initiate disciplinary actions.
• Meet with the Bureau Chief to assess workload issues for the purposes of creating performance measurements, annual work plans, and project management plans. Participate in the agency's development and implementation of a new financial accounting system (FI$Cal).
• Ensure the Section adheres to the overall mission, vision, goals, and objectives of the Division, Bureau and Department.
• Provide direction and oversight regarding the understanding and implementation of legislation, policies, regulations, and procedures.
• Conduct ongoing risk assessments, monitor and verify adequacy of internal controls in compliance with the State Leadership Accountability Act.

You will find additional information about the job in the Duty Statement .

Working Conditions

This position is located at The Park, a quaint and historical campus environment two blocks from McKinley Park, in the heart of residential East Sacramento. Easily accessible from US 50 and I-80, The Park offers free parking, quick walks to local restaurant favorites, and countless lunchtime strolling opportunities through the quiet East Sacramento neighborhood.

This position is eligible for hybrid telework under California Government Code Section 14200 for eligible applicants residing in California. All telework schedules are subject to change and may be reevaluated at any time. Specific telework arrangements may be discussed in more detail with the respective hiring manager. Telework does not change the terms and conditions of employment, the essential functions of job duties, or required compliance with the State Controller's Office policies.

Minimum Requirements

You will find the Minimum Requirements in the Class Specification.

• FINANCIAL ACCOUNTANT III

The Office of the State Controller (SCO) is the destination employer within the State of California. As California’s chief fiscal officer, the Controller’s Office ensures accountability and transparency of California’s financial practices while promoting fairness and opportunity for all. Here, you’ll work in a collaborative and supportive environment with diverse opportunities for professional growth and development. A career with the SCO offers meaningful work that directly impacts the state’s future.

The State Accounting and Reporting Division (SARD) of the California State Controller’s Office plays a crucial role in ensuring the transparency, accuracy, and efficiency of the state’s financial operations. As the backbone of California’s financial reporting, SARD is responsible for preparing and publishing essential financial statements, overseeing the state’s budgetary control, and providing vital fiscal information to policy decision-makers and the public. Working in this division means contributing to the financial stability and integrity of the fifth-largest economy in the world with opportunities to engage in meaningful work, learn from seasoned experts, and grow your career in public finance.

Take the next step in your career with an organization that values innovation, integrity, and the well-being of its employees. Apply today and build a California where everyone thrives!

Visit our website to learn more about the State Controller’s Office.

How did you hear about us? Take our survey!

A copy of your degree, transcripts, or degree evaluation is required.

A Statement of Qualifications is required; please see ‘Required Application Package Documents’ for instructions.

Take the required examination here: Financial Accountant III Examination

Completed applications and all required documents must be received or postmarked by the Final Filing Date in order to be considered. Dates printed on Mobile Bar Codes, such as the Quick Response (QR) Codes available at the USPS, are not considered Postmark dates for the purpose of determining timely filing of an application.

Final Filing Date:

Completed applications and all required documents must be received or postmarked by the Final Filing Date in order to be considered. Dates printed on Mobile Bar Codes, such as the Quick Response (QR) Codes available at the USPS, are not considered Postmark dates for the purpose of determining timely filing of an application.

Final Filing Date: 5/16/2025

Who May Apply

Individuals who are currently in the classification, eligible for lateral transfer, eligible for reinstatement, have list or LEAP eligibility, are in the process of obtaining list eligibility, or have SROA and/or Surplus eligibility (please attach your letter, if available). SROA and Surplus candidates are given priority; therefore, individuals with other eligibility may be considered in the event no SROA or Surplus candidates apply.

Applications will be screened and only the most qualified applicants will be selected to move forward in the selection process. Applicants must meet the Minimum Qualifications stated in the Classification Specification(s).

How To Apply

Complete Application Packages (including your Examination/Employment Application (STD 678) and applicable or required documents) must be submitted to apply for this Job Posting. Application Packages may be submitted electronically through your CalCareer Account at www.CalCareers.ca.gov. When submitting your application in hard copy, a completed copy of the Application Package listing must be included.If you choose to not apply electronically, a hard copy application package may be submitted through an alternative method listed below:

Address for Mailing Application Packages

You may submit your application and any applicable or required documents to:

State Controller's Office Human Resources Attn: Human Resources Office, A.M. 300 Capitol Mall 3rd Floor, Ste 300 Sacramento , CA 95814

Address for Drop-Off Application Packages

You may drop off your application and any applicable or required documents at:

State Controller's Office Human Resources Attn: Human Resources Office, A.M. 300 Capitol Mall 3rd Floor, Ste 300 Sacramento , CA 95814 Applications dropped off in person must be received by 5 p.m. in HR, by the final filing date. 08:00 AM - 05:00 PM

Required Application Package Documents

The following items are required to be submitted with your application. Applicants who do not submit the required items timely may not be considered for this job:

• Current version of the State Examination/Employment Application STD Form 678 (when not applying electronically), or the Electronic State Employment Application through your Applicant Account at www.CalCareers.ca.gov.All Experience and Education relating to the Minimum Qualifications listed on the Classification Specification should be included to demonstrate how you meet the Minimum Qualifications for the position.
• Resume is optional. It may be included, but is not required.
• Degree and/or School Transcripts
• Statement of Qualifications - The Statement of Qualifications (SOQ) must be no more than two pages in length, single-spaced, on an 8.5" x 11" document, using 12pt Arial font with one-inch margins. You must indicate "Statement of Qualifications" at the top of the page, include your name on each page, and respond to the following prompts listed below:
  
  
  • Describe your technical knowledge and experience performing complex accounting processes related to the duties and responsibilities listed below.
  • Describe your experience with the FI$Cal system or a similar Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) software.
  
  Resumes are not an acceptable substitute for the SOQ.

Application Instructions

Completed applications and all required documents must be received or postmarked by the Final Filing Date in order to be considered. Dates printed on Mobile Bar Codes, such as the Quick Response (QR) Codes available at the USPS, are not considered Postmark dates for the purpose of determining timely filing of an application.

Final Filing Date: 5/16/2025

Who May Apply

Individuals who are currently in the classification, eligible for lateral transfer, eligible for reinstatement, have list or LEAP eligibility, are in the process of obtaining list eligibility, or have SROA and/or Surplus eligibility (please attach your letter, if available). SROA and Surplus candidates are given priority; therefore, individuals with other eligibility may be considered in the event no SROA or Surplus candidates apply.

Applications will be screened and only the most qualified applicants will be selected to move forward in the selection process. Applicants must meet the Minimum Qualifications stated in the Classification Specification(s).

How To Apply

Complete Application Packages (including your Examination/Employment Application (STD 678) and applicable or required documents) must be submitted to apply for this Job Posting. Application Packages may be submitted electronically through your CalCareer Account at www.CalCareers.ca.gov. When submitting your application in hard copy, a completed copy of the Application Package listing must be included.If you choose to not apply electronically, a hard copy application package may be submitted through an alternative method listed below:

Address for Mailing Application Packages

You may submit your application and any applicable or required documents to:

State Controller's Office Human Resources Attn: Human Resources Office, A.M. 300 Capitol Mall 3rd Floor, Ste 300 Sacramento , CA 95814

Address for Drop-Off Application Packages

You may drop off your application and any applicable or required documents at:

State Controller's Office Human Resources Attn: Human Resources Office, A.M. 300 Capitol Mall 3rd Floor, Ste 300 Sacramento , CA 95814 Applications dropped off in person must be received by 5 p.m. in HR, by the final filing date. 08:00 AM - 05:00 PM

Required Application Package Documents

The following items are required to be submitted with your application. Applicants who do not submit the required items timely may not be considered for this job:

• Current version of the State Examination/Employment Application STD Form 678 (when not applying electronically), or the Electronic State Employment Application through your Applicant Account at www.CalCareers.ca.gov.All Experience and Education relating to the Minimum Qualifications listed on the Classification Specification should be included to demonstrate how you meet the Minimum Qualifications for the position.
• Resume is optional. It may be included, but is not required.
• Degree and/or School Transcripts
• Statement of Qualifications - The Statement of Qualifications (SOQ) must be no more than two pages in length, single-spaced, on an 8.5" x 11" document, using 12pt Arial font with one-inch margins. You must indicate "Statement of Qualifications" at the top of the page, include your name on each page, and respond to the following prompts listed below:
  
  
  • Describe your technical knowledge and experience performing complex accounting processes related to the duties and responsibilities listed below.
  • Describe your experience with the FI$Cal system or a similar Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) software.
  
  Resumes are not an acceptable substitute for the SOQ.

Applicants requiring reasonable accommodations for the hiring interview process must request the necessary accommodations if scheduled for a hiring interview. The request should be made at the time of contact to schedule the interview. Questions regarding reasonable accommodations may be directed to the EEO contact listed on this job posting.

Desirable Qualifications

In addition to evaluating each candidate's relative ability, as demonstrated by quality and breadth of experience, the following factors will provide the basis for competitively evaluating each candidate:

• Knowledge of accounting principles and procedures.
• Knowledge of the organization and functions of the State Controller's Office and California State Government.
• Ability to interpret and apply laws, rules, standards, and procedures.
• Ability to analyze data, draw sound conclusions, and make recommendations.
• Ability to organize and establish workload priorities, work well under pressures, and exercise initiative and flexibility.
• Organized in managing work and meeting deadlines with the ability to manage multiple priorities requiring quick turnaround times.
• Ability to work effectively both independently and cooperatively with others
• Knowledge and experience with personal computers utilizing Microsoft Outlook, Word, Excel, Access, etc.
• Self-motivated, dependable, and a positive attitude.

Benefit information can be found on the CalHR website and the CalPERS website.

Contact Information

The Hiring Unit Contact is available to answer questions regarding the position or application process.

Hiring Unit Contact:
Lucy Xiong
[phone]
[e-mail]

Please direct requests for Reasonable Accommodations to the interview scheduler at the time the interview is being scheduled.You may direct any additional questions regarding Reasonable Accommodations or Equal Employment Opportunity for this position(s)to the Department's EEO Office.

Please direct requests for Reasonable Accommodations to the interview scheduler at the time the interview is being scheduled.You may direct any additional questions regarding Reasonable Accommodations or Equal Employment Opportunity for this position(s)to the Department's EEO Office.

EEO Contact:
EEO Officer
[phone]

California Relay Service: 1-800-735-2929 (TTY), 1-800-735-2922 (Voice)TTY is a Telecommunications Device for the Deaf, and is reachable only from phones equipped with a TTY Device.

Equal Opportunity Employer

The State of California is an equal opportunity employer to all, regardless of age, ancestry, color, disability (mental and physical), exercising the right to family care and medical leave, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, marital status, medical condition, military or veteran status, national origin, political affiliation, race, religious creed, sex (includes pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding and related medical conditions), and sexual orientation.

It is an objective of the State of California to achieve a drug-free work place. Any applicant for state employment will be expected to behave in accordance with this objective because the use of illegal drugs is inconsistent with the law of the State, the rules governing Civil Service, and the special trust placed in public servants.

Application Methods: Electronic (Using your CalCareer Account) By Mail Drop-off