Government Consulting Senior

Summary of Responsibilities

Performs most work assigned with a minimum of assistance. Often leads a number of staff accountants, instructs them in work to be performed, reviews the work done, and directs necessary revisions. Demonstrates the ability to make decisions on all but the most unusual accounting. When problems arise, the senior consultant outlines them for the manager or principal and then acts on advice. The salary range is $55,000-$90,000 dependent on skill level and experience.

Prepares time budgets on jobs and leads staff accountants to employ methods that will accomplish objectives effectively and efficiently. Displays professional conduct and conveys confidence and ease in the presence of staff and client representatives. Maintain ongoing communication with clients and consulting team on project progression and arising issues.

Essential Functions

• Performs diversified consulting assignments under the direction of a supervisor, manager and/or principal.

• Demonstrates competency in technical skills, work quality and application of professional and firm standards.

• Demonstrate the ability to understand and follow processes that have been developed and leverage that knowledge by training staff.

• Participates in the planning of consulting engagements, including developing a budget and timeline.

• Demonstrate an understanding of the audit process, how to prepare audit documentation, and communication with external auditors.

• Meets time constraints and client deadlines.

• Schedules client engagements including monthly and year-end fieldwork, entrance and exit conferences, and consulting completion dates.

• Directs and instructs staff where applicable, in work to be performed and review working papers prepared by staff accountants.

• Prepares and indexes working papers; performs various procedures established under generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP) to verify accuracy and validity of client's accounts balances and transaction cycles.

• Performs the broadest range of accountant tasks so that direct participation of supervisors, managers or principles is kept to a minimum.

• Prepares other reports, projects and duties as may be assigned.

• Knows and understands the reason behind the firm's policies and procedures.

• Possesses technical knowledge sufficient to supervise staff accountants.

• Begins acquiring the skills necessary to develop quality client relationships and loyalty.

• Develops a command of GAAP and the unique or specialized accounting principles specific to the client's industry niches.

• Develops a solid understanding of financial statement presentation and disclosure issues.

• Obtains a general understanding of generally accepted auditing standards and common audit procedures and techniques applied to account balances and transaction cycles.

• Effectively communicates with client to receive information necessary to complete the engagement with a minimum of disruption to client.

• Develops proficiency in researching accounting and compliance issues that impact the client, including the preparation of information returns.

• Have a valid driver's license.

• Have personal vehicle for client commute. The job requires in/out of town client commutes where a reliable vehicle is needed.

• Have current auto insurance policy with at least minimum requirements for California.

Required Experience

• Experience in public or private accounting, demonstrating a substantial understanding of the GASB and/or FASB frameworks
• 3+ years auditing governmental agencies and non-profit organizations is preferred

Educational Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in accounting

Required Licenses, Certificates or Knowledge

• Either holds a current and valid CPA license, or is working toward obtaining the licenses

• Proficient in Microsoft Office and general competence in computerized accounting software programs, including government and other fund accounting software