Financial Analyst- (Utilities Finance)

Full Job Description

GENERAL SUMMARY 
The purpose of this job is to collect, compile, analyze and report information on technical, demographic, financial and/or budget data of the City to serve as a basis for reporting, rate setting, monitoring or other financial and/or budget analyses. Compiles, analyzes and reports financial and/or budget information to help produce and maintain forecasts of the industry and economic conditions and present illustrations of this information through spreadsheets, charts and graphs. Provides visual management and transparent reporting for the utilization of the funds, prepares and presents to various boards and authorities on the success of investments based upon the determined metrics.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES 
The intent of this job description is to provide a representative summary of the major duties and responsibilities performed by employees in this job. Employees may be requested to perform job-related tasks other than those specifically presented in this description.

• Performs budget and financial analyses, rate study and accounting functions.
• Compiles, analyzes and reports financial information to help produce and maintain forecasts of the industry and economic conditions; presents illustrations of information through spreadsheets, charts and graphs.
• Interprets and/or compare the data that affects the industry; monitors economic, industrial and corporate developments.
• Monitors and analyzes financial performance of the department for forecasting purposes, as well as monitoring of operating and capital budget spending.
• Provides guidance and direction to less experienced administrative, professional and non-technical employees.
• Assists and participates in the annual budget process; maintains dashboard metrics and tracking; provides financial projections.
• Ensures City funds are accounted for in compliance with City Charter, in accordance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles and Governmental Accounting Standards Board regulations.
• Prepares worksheets and schedules for auditors fund information worksheets.
• Monitors various cost accounting systems; analyzes and develops departmental internal control systems.
• Conducts special research projects involving investigation and analysis of various information and data.
• Collects, compiles, and analyzes information on assets.
• Performs related work as required.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in finance, accounting, or a related field

-AND-

• At least two (2) years of experience conducting financial analysis, preparing financial statements, cost accounting, revenue rate setting, statistical analysis, preparing journal entries, or related activities.

-OR-

• Any equivalent combination of training, education, and experience that provides the required skills, knowledge and abilities.

Qualifications

Knowledge of:

• The principles, theories and practices involved in budgeting and rate setting
• Generally accepted accounting principles as they relate to the public sector
• Research methods and practices
• A variety of complex computer software programs for financial reporting purposes
• Principles and practices of basic accounting and budgeting
• Modern office procedures, methods and computer equipment

Skill in:

• Interpersonal skills necessary to develop and maintain effective and appropriate working relationships
• Performing a variety of duties, often changing from one task to another of a different nature
• Performing advanced mathematical functions
• Assigning, prioritizing, monitoring, and reviewing work assignments
• Effective oral and written communication
• Conducting financial analysis and preparing financial statements

Ability to:

• Write complex computer programs for financial reporting, budgeting or rate analysis purposes
• Develop and collect data
• Conduct research and prepare analyses and reports
• Construct forecast models and prepare budgets
• Communicate effectively, both orally and in writing
• Meet schedules and deadlines of the work
• Understand and carry out oral and written directions
• Accurately organize and maintain paper documents and electronic files
• Maintain the confidentiality of information and professional boundaries

Additional Information

We offer:

• Medical, Dental, and Vision starting on Day 1
• 6% employee 401a contribution with employer matching (6% or 7% based on bargaining unit)
• Employee & Employer contributions to Retiree Health Savings Account
• Voluntary benefits such as term life insurance, flexible spending accounts, accidental insurance, disability insurance, and deferred compensation plan options
• Twelve Paid Holidays
• Paid Vacation and Sick Time
• Paid parking (if applicable)
• Employee Home Ownership Incentive
• Tuition Reimbursement and professional development opportunities
• Paid Parental Leave
• Employee Assistance Program with free mental health counseling
• Comprehensive Wellness program with a health and wellness incentive
• Employee Discounts and Perks

Should an applicant need any disability related accommodation or other consideration in the application or selection process, please notify the human resources department upon submittal of application

The City of Grand Rapids does not discriminate in employment on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy or gender identity), national origin, political affiliation, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, genetic information, age, membership in an employee organization, retaliation, parental status, military service, or other non-merit factor.