Entry Level Government Accounting Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Reporting to the Accounting Manager, the Accountant I is an entry-level professional position responsible for applying fundamental accounting principles, theories, and concepts to a defined accounting system or function. This position performs routine and structured accounting tasks under close supervision to support accurate financial recordkeeping, reporting, and compliance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP), government accounting standards, applicable federal and state regulations, Arizona Revised Statutes, and agency policies. The Accountant 1 supports higher-level accounting staff and contributes to the integrity of the agency's financial operations. The position is grant-funded and employment is contingent upon the availability of funding.
Arizona's Rural Health Transformation Program is supported by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) as a part of a financial assistance award totaling $166,988,955.92 with 100 percent funded by CMS/HHS. The contents are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily represent the official views of, nor endorsement, by CMS/HHS, or the U.S. Government.

This position may offer the ability to work remotely, within Arizona, based upon the department's business needs and continual meeting of expected performance measures.

The State of Arizona strives for a work culture that affords employees flexibility, autonomy, and trust. Across our many agencies, boards, and commissions, many State employees participate in the State's Remote Work Program and are able to work remotely in their homes, in offices, and in hoteling spaces. All work, including remote work, should be performed within Arizona unless an exception is properly authorized in advance.

Accounting Transactions & Recordkeeping - Provide transactional and administrative accounting support for the Rural Health Workforce Development and Training Program (RHTP) administered by the Office of Economic Opportunity (OEO) under subaward from AHCCCS. Maintain detailed financial records and supporting documentation for RHTP expenditures in compliance with 2 CFR Part 200, AHCCCS grant administrative guidelines, Arizona Revised Statutes, and agency policies. Assist with reconciliation of RHTP expenditures, encumbrances, and funding balances. Examine and verify fiscal transactions such as invoices, payments, payroll documents, and other financial records for accuracy, completeness, and proper authorization. Make entries and revisions to agency accounts, ledgers, and financial records in accordance with established procedures. Reconcile financial data and reports, identifying apparent inconsistencies or errors and escalating issues as appropriate. Review fiscal documents for timeliness and compliance with applicable accounting standards and agency requirements. Maintain organized and accurate accounting records and supporting documentation.
Financial Reporting & Data Compilation - Gather, compile, and organize financial data for use in routine reports and reconciliations. Support higher-level accountants in preparing financial reports, schedules, and documentation required for RHTP reporting, audits, and monitoring activities. Assist in preparing financial reports summarizing transactions and account activity for specified periods. Review financial statements and reports for completeness and accuracy prior to submission. Assist with preparation of schedules and supporting documentation for audits or management review.
Budget Monitoring & Fund Control - Monitor expenditures against approved budgets to ensure spending does not exceed available funding. Provide transactional and administrative accounting support for the Rural Health Workforce Development and Training Program (RHTP) administered by the Office of Economic Opportunity (OEO) under subaward from AHCCCS. Track revenues and expenditures for assigned programs or funding sources. Monitor federal and state funds to ensure proper matching and allowable use of expenditures. Notify supervisor of potential budget issues, discrepancies, or funding concerns.
Automated Systems & Administrative Support - Utilize automated accounting systems and applications to retrieve, enter, and review financial data. Assist with maintaining accurate data within financial and accounting systems. Follow established procedures for processing accounting transactions and corrections. Support higher-level accountants with data entry, reconciliations, and system-related tasks.
Professional Development & Team Support - Learn and apply agency accounting policies, procedures, and internal controls. Participate in training activities to develop accounting knowledge and technical skills. Provide administrative and clerical support to accounting staff as needed. Perform related duties as assigned.
Other duties as assigned as related to the position

Knowledge of:
Basic knowledge of accounting principles and practices
Familiarity with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP) and government accounting concepts.
Skills in:
Basic mathematical and analytical techniques
Ability to:
Review financial data for accuracy and completeness
Use automated accounting and financial systems
Follow detailed instructions and established procedures
Organize work, meet deadlines, and maintain accurate records
Communicate effectively and work collaboratively in a team environment

Bachelor's Degree in accounting or a closely related field.
No prior professional accounting experience required.
Coursework or experience in government accounting, public-sector finance, or grant-funded programs is preferred.
Internships or related coursework may be beneficial.

If this position requires driving or the use of a vehicle as an essential function of the job to conduct State business, then the following requirements apply: Driver's License Requirements.

All newly hired State employees are subject to and must successfully complete the Electronic Employment Eligibility Verification Program (E-Verify).

The State of Arizona offers a comprehensive benefits package to include:
Sick leave
Vacation with 10 paid holidays per year
Health and dental insurance
Retirement plan
Life insurance and long-term disability insurance
Optional employee benefits include short-term disability insurance, deferred compensation plans, and supplemental life insurance

By providing the option of a full-time or part-time remote work schedule, employees enjoy improved work/life balance, report higher job satisfaction, and are more productive. Remote work is a management option and not an employee entitlement or right. An agency may terminate a remote work agreement at its discretion.

Learn more about the Paid Parental Leave program here. For a complete list of benefits provided by The State of Arizona, please visit our benefits page

Positions in this classification participate in the Arizona State Retirement System (ASRS)
Please note, enrollment eligibility will become effective after 27 weeks of employment

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact Mariem Ly at mariem.ly@oeo.az.gov.