Section Manager II - Project Accounting

Accounting Manager

Discover work that moves you in a dynamic and innovative setting. Be part of a team delivering Orange County's transportation network of today and creating a vision for the future. OCTA is the county's transportation planning commission and public transit operator. With a focus on safety and accountability, we plan, fund, and implement countywide projects that include bus and rail transit, freeways and express lanes, rideshare, microtransit, paratransit, active transportation, and environmental programs. We're passionate about creating a balanced, equitable and sustainable transportation system that reflects the diverse travel needs of the county's 34 cities and 3.2 million residents. Our employees rated OCTA as a top workplace in Orange County. Come join us on our mission of keeping Orange County moving.

Oversees the preparation, recording, and reconciliation of accounting / business transactions for the Express Lanes and Capital Assets. Responsible for professional accounting activities relating to Cost Allocation, and TOC M2 activities of the Agency. Understands new and / or complex modifications to existing accounting standards and how to apply them to unique governmental circumstances. Acts as mentor and / or provides technical leadership to lower-level Accounting Team members in all areas of professional responsibilities.

This is an exempt position in Salary Grade 220 : Min $113,276.80 Mid $135,324.80 Max $157,352.00 annually. The starting salary will be within this range based on qualifications.

This posting will remain open until filled.

Displays High Integrity & Honesty : Takes personal responsibility, acts with honesty and consistency. Has Technical and Professional Expertise : Has the technical skills, product knowledge and professional skills to do the job. Manages direct reports and provides training, work direction, and guidance. Assists in the recruitment, selection and evaluation of employees. Evaluates individual performance, prepares and conducts performance reviews, counsels employees, and administers disciplinary actions. Analyzes and resolves work problems; assists employees in solving work issues.

Oversees the capital asset accounting function ensuring compliance with generally accepted accounting principles, agency policies, and procedures as well as applicable state / federal / grant regulations. Oversees the accounting and financial reporting activities of the Express Lanes (currently 91EL and 405EL), including the preparation of the Express Lanes Financial Statement and other related financial information. Communicate as necessary with Express Lanes Department Manager and contract operator.

Prepares Quarterly Taxpayer Oversight Committee Report and provides other miscellaneous financial information. Initiates communication with departments responsible for project budgets, estimates and program forecasts, ensuring reasonableness. Attends audit sub-committee meetings of the Taxpayer Oversight Committee (TOC).

Acts as a mentor and / or provides technical leadership to Accounting staff members in applying accounting principles and applicable laws, regulations, policies and procedures as well as in preparing or directing the preparation of various periodic and special reports; makes recommendations for improving operating procedures and policies. Assists with review of various reports and accounting documents.

Assists in making recommendations for the recruitment, selection, and hiring of section staff. Evaluate individual performance, prepares and conducts performance reviews, counsels employees, and administers disciplinary actions. Analyzes and resolves work problems; assists employees in solving work issues.

Performs month-end and year-end closing activities.

Completes special projects as assigned.

Demonstrates effective oral and written communications skills.

Works in a Collaborative Manner with Others : Works in a collaborative manner with others, helps resolve unproductive conflict.

For internal and external audits, serves as subject matter expert and point person for all matters related to the Express Lanes, the Quarterly Taxpayer Oversight Committee Reports and the Annual Measure M Status Report. Establishes and maintains effective working relationships.

Initiates Innovation : Actively considers new ideas and works to improve processes.

Stays current with changes and pending changes in accounting practices. Researches, develops solutions and reports findings relative to new accounting standards or new unique financial events.

Solves Problems & Analyzes Issues : Has and applies problem analysis and problem-solving skills on a technical and interpersonal level.

Reviews the Annual Comprehensive Annual Financial Report (ACFR) footnotes for completeness and accuracy, providing any comments to enhance the report. Oversee the information provided by the capital asset accountant included in the ACFR.

Prepares the annual Cost Allocation Plan. Initiates communication with cognizant department personnel to determine the optimal basis for allocating indirect administrative costs. Make adjustments to the allocation formulas as needed.

Understands and applies methods and practices for auditing.

Exercises independent judgment in applying accounting principles to unique and complex situations.

Qualifications Any combination of education and experience equivalent to a bachelor's degree in accounting, finance or related field with a minimum of five years of experience in accounting, auditing, or related field. Three years of previous management experience is preferred.

Working Conditions / Physical Activities Positions in this class typically require : Work may be performed in a stressful, fast-paced office environment, depending upon assignment. Requires ability to understand verbal communication and to respond effectively. Positions in this class typically require : Reaching, Finger Dexterity, Grasping, Feeling, Talking, Hearing, Seeing, and Repetitive Motions in computer use.