Financial Accountant - Parks & Rec

Description: 

Performs financial administrative functions for the Ridgefield Parks & Recreation Department, including budget development and monitoring, financial reporting, payroll coordination, accounts payable and receivable, reconciliations, and special revenue accounts. Provides financial analysis, forecasting, and administrative support to the Director to promote sound fiscal management, informed decision-making, and the effective use of department resources.

Essential Job Functions: 
Budget Development and Monitoring

  • Assists the Director in developing the annual operating budget, working with supervisors to gather, review, and evaluate budget requests and revenue projections. 
  • Assists the Director in developing the annual, five-year and ten-year capital plans.
  • Prepares financial forecasts, cost analyses, and projections to support budget planning, resource allocation, and departmental decision-making.
  • Monitors and reports on departmental revenues, expenditures, and budget balances monthly, identifying variances and emerging trends.
  • Attends Parks & Recreation Commission meetings and Town financial meetings as required; prepares supporting financial information for the Director, Parks & Recreation Commission, and other Town officials as needed.
  • Coordinates with the Town Finance Department on financial reporting, reconciliations, budget matters, and related administrative requirements.
  • Serves as a resource to the Director, assistant directors, department supervisors and staff on budgetary and financial matters.

Accounts Payable, Purchasing and Vendor Coordination

  • Reviews vendor and independent contractor invoices for accuracy, completeness, budget availability and appropriate approvals; submit for processing in accordance with established Town Finance Dept. procedures.
  • Assists in establishing and maintaining department vendors and accounts including; tax exempt status, opening accounts, and required documentation. Resolve any invoice or payment discrepancy or issue.
  • Submits requests for purchase orders on behalf of the department ensuring appropriate documentation in accordance with municipal procedures. Assists with obtaining competitive quotes and examining cooperative purchasing agreements as needed.

Payroll and Personnel Cost Monitoring

  • Coordinates departmental payroll processing and time and attendance reporting, working closely with supervisors and employees to resolve discrepancies and meet established deadlines.
  • Reviews payroll and timekeeping reports for accuracy and completeness; submits approved reports to Human Resources for processing.
  • Monitors payroll expenses including overtime and seasonal staffing costs. Assists with seasonal staffing projections and personnel cost estimates.

Revenue Management and Program Support

  • Prepares and reconciles daily cash receipts and transmittals, bank deposits, and other financial records; investigates and communicates discrepancies.
  • Monitors and reports on special revenue accounts, including Ballard Park, ADA, and Out & About, ensuring accurate tracking of revenues, expenditures, and account balances.
  • Provides financial information and analysis to assist with program planning, fee reviews, cost recovery, and evaluation of departmental activities.
  • Assists with financial tracking for departmental programs, services, and special initiatives as needed.
  • Responds to customer inquiries regarding payments or charges for monthly membership installments or other registrations.
  • Maintains accurate and organized financial records; supports the documentation and consistent application of departmental financial procedures and internal controls. Performs other related duties as assigned.
Experience/Qualifications:
  • Experience in financial administration, accounting, budget monitoring, payroll, accounts payable and receivable, financial reporting, or a related field.
  • Demonstrated ability to maintain accurate financial records, reconcile accounts, monitor expenditures and revenues, and prepare clear financial reports.
  • Ability to analyze financial information, identify budget variances and trends, and assist with forecasting and budget development.
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications, particularly Excel, including spreadsheets, formulas, and financial reporting.
  • Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, sound judgment, and the ability to manage multiple responsibilities and meet established deadlines.
  • Effective written and verbal communication skills and the ability to work collaboratively with department staff, Town Finance personnel, vendors, and other stakeholders.
  • Ability to learn and work with financial, recreation management, payment processing, and timekeeping systems.

Education and Experience:
A degree or equivalent coursework in accounting, finance, business administration, or a related field is preferred. A combination of relevant education, training, and progressively responsible experience demonstrating the necessary financial and administrative competencies may be considered in lieu of a degree. 

Preferred Qualifications:
Experience with municipal or public-sector financial administration, budget preparation, financial reporting, and internal controls. Familiarity with Munis, Cogran, Stripe, TimeClock Plus, or similar financial and administrative software is desirable.

Full-time (40 hours per week), nonunion
Monday - Friday  8:30 AM - 5:30 PM  (can varying based on the needs of the department)
Hiring Salary: $65,000 - $85,000
Benefits: medical, dental, vision, matching 401, sick, vacation, personal days, holidays, disability and life insurance

Please send Application and Resume to:
Mail: Town of Ridgefield, Human Resources, 400 Main Street, Ridgefield, CT 06877
Fax: 203-431-2328