Interim Temporary or Out-of-Class (OOC) Principal Accountant

City of Seattle; Seattle (WA); Hybrid; USD 74,000 - 87,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid work schedule

Premium pay for external candidates

Job summary

City of Seattle is seeking a Principal Accountant for the General Accounting team within SPU Finance & Risk Management. The role oversees the general ledger, fixed assets, debt, leases and other core cycles, delivering monthly financial reports and improving processes.

This temporary/internal position lasts up to 11–12 months, with hybrid remote options two days per week and premium pay for external candidates without benefits.

Qualifications

• Four years of professional accounting experience required, with one year at senior level.
• Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Business Administration or related field (CPA preferred).

Responsibilities

• Oversee monthly/annual close and financial statements.
• Ensure strong internal controls and identify high-risk transactions.
• Develop and implement accounting policies for consistent application.
• Interpret GASB guidelines and deliver suitable financial reports.
• Lead and review audit workpapers and manage a team of accountants.
• Conduct research on complex accounting issues and prepare analyses.
• Provide strategic financial analyses to Finance leadership.
• Demonstrate initiative and strong communication and collaboration skills.
• Maintain extensive knowledge of accounting systems (e.g., PeopleSoft) and advanced Excel.

Skills

GAAP knowledge

Excel advanced

PeopleSoft

Education

Bachelor's degree in Accounting/Business Admin

Tools

Audit & accounting software

Job description

Seattle Public Utilities (SPU) has an exciting opportunity for professional Accountants, within our Finance & Risk Management Branch. We're seeking a Temp (External) or Out-of-Class (OOC Internal) Principal Accountant to join our General Accounting team as a primary owner for significant areas such as the general ledger, fixed assets, debt, leases and other key business cycles. You'll be responsible for producing monthly financial reports, making recommendations to improve accounting processes and systems, interpreting accounting pronouncements, complying with policies and procedures, and providing critical support and guidance to the team and management.

This Temporary (external)/OOC (internal) position is expected to last up to 11 or 12 months and is open to all regular City of Seattle employees, as well as external candidates. External candidates will [initially] be non-benefited and will receive premium pay in lieu of benefits.

About Seattle Public Utilities

Seattle Public Utilities (SPU) is a community-centered utility that delivers vital services to Seattle residents and businesses including drinking water, drainage and wastewater, and garbage/recycling/compost. SPU also provides drinking water for 1.6 million customers in the region. SPU’s work includes system maintenance and improvements and keeping Seattle clean. Over 1,400 SPU employees work with our community to provide affordable and equitable stewardship of our water and waste resources for future generations.

For more information about Seattle Public Utilities (SPU), checkout the:

• SPU Website
• SPU Workplace Expectation
• Strategic Business Plan

SPU commits to Our City Values and Race and Social Justice as core principles that guide our work. We actively take steps to dismantle systemic racism and increase service equity. We value diverse life experiences and strive to create a workplace that is welcoming to all. We take steps to be inclusive and equitable in our recruiting, hiring and promotional opportunities.

Primary Job Responsibilities

• Oversee accurate financial statements (monthly/annual close) and ensure strong internal controls (identifying high-risk transactions).
• Manage daily accounting operations efficiently and develop/implement accounting policies for consistent application.
• Interpret and apply new accounting guidelines (GASB) while designing & delivering financial reports meeting business needs.
• Lead & review audit workpapers, perform complex reconciliations, and manage a team of accountants (providing guidance & support).
• Conduct research on complex accounting issues, prepare audit schedules/analyses, and ensure adherence to GAAP, GASB, and City practices.
• Develop periodic financial analyses, lead discussions with Finance and leadership, and prioritize/manage projects with strong organizational skills.
• Leverage strong analytical & strategic thinking for insightful financial analysis.
• Demonstrate initiative, problem-solving, and excellent communication & collaboration skills.
• Possess extensive knowledge of accounting systems (e.g., PeopleSoft) and advanced Excel skills.

Please note this job advertisement is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

Experience Requirement(s)

Four (4) years professional experience in accounting, auditing, financial analysis, or related work with one year experience equivalent to a Senior Accountant.

Education Requirement(s)

Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Business Administration or related field (requires satisfactory completion of at least 24 semester hours or 36 quarter credit units in accounting with no substitution allowed)and/or professional certification as a CPA.

Combinations of appropriate education, training, certification, and experience(s) will be evaluated on an individual basis for comparability.

Desired Qualifications/Experience

• Proven track record of financial statement preparation, analysis, and interpretation
• Experience researching complex accounting issues and developing/implementing accounting procedures
• Demonstrated ability to lead and mentor junior and senior accountants
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills with a keen eye for detail
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, with the ability to present complex financial information in non-technical terms
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment and take initiative
• Extensive knowledge of accounting and financial reporting systems like PeopleSoft or similar
• Ability to work effectively within a diverse team

Workplace Environment (*Telework Expectation)

This position allows for the flexibility of a hybrid work schedule. City employees will have the option to work remotely two days a week. Individual schedules will be agreed upon by the employee and their supervisor.

Who may apply

All qualified candidates may apply, including external candidates and internal employees of the City of Seattle (COS).

The City of Seattle encourages people of all backgrounds to apply, including people of color, immigrants, refugees, women, LGBTQ, people with disabilities, veterans, and those with diverse life experience. This position is open to all qualified candidates that meet the minimum qualifications. The City of Seattle values diverse perspectives and life experiences. Applicants will be considered regardless of race, color, creed, national origin, ancestry, sex, marital status, disability, religious or political affiliation, age, sexual orientation, or gender identity.

The City of Seattle offers a comprehensive benefits package including vacation, holiday, and sick leave as well as medical, dental, vision, life, and long-term disability insurance for employees and their dependents. More information about employee benefits is available on the City's website at: https://www.seattle.gov/human-resources/benefits

If you have any questions, please contact Heather Baldwin-Stewart at [e-mail].

The full salary range for this position is $54.01 per hour - $62.90 per hour.

*Temporary employees will start at Step 1 of this progressive range, at $54.01 per hour.