Senior Project Accountant

Orange County Department of Education; Costa Mesa (CA); On-site; USD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

Orange County Department of Education is seeking a Senior Project Accountant to support grant-funded and restricted programs, monitor budgets, and prepare reports. The role emphasizes accuracy, analytical thinking, and strong knowledge of CSAM and accounting software.

You will work with Microsoft Excel and other tools to ensure timely, compliant financial reporting to funders and stakeholders. Candidates should have a detail-oriented mindset and the ability to manage complex funding rules.

Qualifications

• Associate's degree in accounting or related field.
• Five (5) years of experience, two (2) of which is involved in project or grant fund accounting.

Responsibilities

• Oversee restricted funding and monitor budgets and expenditures.
• Prepare and submit financial reports to funders and ensure compliance with funding requirements.

Education

Associate's degree in accounting or related field

Tools

Microsoft Excel

Accounting software

Job description

The Orange County Department of Education (OCDE) serves some of Orange County’s most vulnerable student populations and provides support and mandated fiscal oversight to 28 school districts serving more than 600 schools and approximately 475,000 students. In addition to providing direct instruction to students through its own alternative and special education programs, OCDE administers an array of programs and services that are critical to the operations of local school districts and community colleges, facilitating professional development, legal guidance, payroll, career and technical education support, high-speed internet access, Local Control and Accountability Plan assistance and approval, resources for families, and student enrichment. OCDE’s vision is that “Orange County students will lead the nation in college and career readiness and success.” Department staff are working to achieve this goal in collaboration with educators at all levels of student development, from early childhood through higher education, and in partnership with families, businesses and community organizations.

Job Summary

Join the Orange County Department of Education as a Senior Project Accountant and play a key role in supporting grant-funded, categorical, and other restricted programs. This position oversees restricted funding, monitors budgets and expenditures, prepares and submits financial reports to funders, and helps ensure compliance with applicable funding requirements and regulations. We are seeking a detail-oriented accounting professional who is confident using Microsoft Excel and accounting software, has experience overseeing restricted funding and reporting to funders, and has an understanding of or familiarity with the California School Accounting Manual (CSAM). The ideal candidate will bring strong analytical and organizational skills, sound professional judgement, and knowledge of grant, governmental, or public-school accounting practices.

Requirements / Qualifications

Education and Experience

Any combination of education and experience that would likely provide the required knowledge and abilities is qualifying. A typical way to obtain the knowledge and abilities would be:

• Associate's degree in accounting or related field.
• Five (5) years of experience, two (2) of which is involved in project or grant fund accounting; or a combination of training and experience.

Notice to Applicants: If you require accommodation in the application process, please inform us.

Comments and Other Information

Resumes will not be accepted in lieu of the completed online application. Before receiving authorization to work in this position, the individual selected will be required to provide a current negative TB authorization, within the last 60 days, and submit fingerprints for the purpose of conducting a confidential background investigation and record check. The tests are arranged and paid for by OCDE. The Immigration Reform and Control Act of 1986 requires employers to verify the employability of all new employees. Before the Department will finalize an offer of employment, the candidate selected will be required to show original documents which establish both the individual’s identity and employment authorization. The candidate must also sign a statement under penalty of perjury regarding his/her employability. We reserve the right to reopen, readvertise, or delay filling this position. AA/EOE/ADA