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Government Accounting Jobs in Alberta (NOW HIRING)

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Accounting Specialist

Calgary, AB

Prepare various regulatory and government reporting (RIBO, GST&HST, sales taxes, quarterly surveys ... Professional accounting designation (CPA) * 5+ years of progressive experience in accounting ...

PCL Construction

Accountant

Calgary, AB · On-site

Intermediate knowledge of government legislation and generally accepted accounting principles. * Intermediate knowledge of project costing principles, recoveries, insurance, and contract/subcontract ...

PCL Construction

Accountant

Calgary, AB · On-site

Intermediate knowledge of government legislation and generally accepted accounting principles. * Intermediate knowledge of project costing principles, recoveries, insurance, and contract/subcontract ...

PCL Construction

Accountant

Calgary, AB · On-site

Intermediate knowledge of government legislation and generally accepted accounting principles. * Intermediate knowledge of project costing principles, recoveries, insurance, and contract/subcontract ...

Pivotal

Senior Accountant

Red Deer County, AB · On-site

... complex accounting issues. * Performfinancial and systems analysis. * Prepare personal and corporate tax returns (and other tax compliance slips) ensuring compliance with government standards

Co op

Jr. Accountant

Bonnyville, AB · On-site

Full cycle accounting including periodic account reconciliations and journal entries * Complete ... Prepare and file government returns as needed * Complete monthly investigation of margins

Inn From The Cold

Senior Accountant

Calgary, AB · On-site

Prepare and submit government filings including: Charity Information Return (T3010), WCB Reporting, Society Annual Return and GST Returns * Ensure compliance with applicable accounting standards ...

Inn From The Cold

Senior Accountant

Calgary, AB · On-site

Prepare and submit government filings including: Charity Information Return (T3010), WCB Reporting, Society Annual Return and GST Returns * Ensure compliance with applicable accounting standards ...

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All JobsGovernment Accounting JobsGovernment Accounting Jobs in Alberta

Government Accounting information

See Alberta salary details

$26K

$86.2K

$169K

How much do government accounting jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for government accounting in Alberta is $86,194.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $49,500.00 and $114,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is government accounting?

Government accounting is the process of recording, analyzing, and reporting financial transactions related to government entities, such as federal, state, or local agencies. Unlike private sector accounting, government accounting focuses on stewardship of public funds, ensuring transparency, accountability, and compliance with laws and regulations. Its primary purpose is to provide accurate financial information to legislators, government officials, and the public, enabling effective decision-making and oversight. Government accountants may handle budgeting, auditing, and financial reporting specific to governmental standards.

What are the qualifications to get a job in government accounting?

The primary qualifications for a government accounting job are a bachelor's degree in a relevant field and seven or more years of government accounting experience. Many government accountants start in a role that is not as focused on government work to gain experience before transferring to this position. Adherence to government regulations is critical for most companies that offer this job, so employers strongly prefer applicants who have extensive experience. Fulfilling the duties and responsibilities of a government accounting job requires communication skills, interpersonal skills, and the ability to travel as needed. Industry certifications (such as Certified Public Accountant) are preferred but not always required.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a government accountant, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Government Accountant, you need a solid understanding of accounting principles, government regulations, and financial reporting, often supported by a bachelor’s degree in accounting or finance. Familiarity with government accounting software, such as SAP or Oracle, and certifications like CPA or CGFM are highly valued. Attention to detail, integrity, and strong analytical and communication skills set top professionals apart in this field. These skills ensure accurate financial management, compliance with regulations, and transparency in public sector operations.

What are some common challenges faced in a government accounting role, and how can they be managed?

Government accountants often navigate complex regulatory frameworks and face strict compliance requirements, which can be challenging due to frequent changes in laws and policies. Managing multiple funding sources and adhering to specific budgetary constraints also requires strong attention to detail and organizational skills. Staying updated on government accounting standards (such as GASB) and maintaining clear communication with other departments can help address these challenges effectively. Regular training and collaboration with colleagues are key strategies for success in this environment.

What is the difference between Government Accounting vs Public Accountant?

AspectGovernment AccountingPublic Accountant
CredentialsCPA often preferred, government-specific certificationsCPA required, with additional certifications optional
Work EnvironmentGovernment agencies, public sectorAccounting firms, client offices, various industries
Employer & IndustryFederal, state, local government agenciesPrivate firms, corporations, non-profits
Work FocusPublic funds, compliance, government regulationsFinancial audits, tax services, consulting

While both roles require CPA credentials and involve accounting skills, Government Accounting primarily focuses on managing public funds and ensuring compliance within government agencies. Public Accountants serve clients across various industries, providing audits, tax, and consulting services. The key difference lies in their work environment and the nature of their responsibilities, with Government Accounting centered on public sector financial management.

More about Government Accounting jobs
Government Accounting jobs near you
Infographic showing various Government Accounting job openings in Alberta as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 8% Part Time, 6% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 82% In-person, 12% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $86,194 per year, or $41.4 per hour.

Manager, Financial Accounting and Reporting

Bowvalleycollege

Calgary, AB • On-site

Full-time

Posted 17 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Manage month-end and year-end financial close, general ledger activity, journal entries, and balance-sheet reconciliations.

  • Oversee financial reporting activities, including preparing internal and external financial statements and supporting audits.

  • Lead and develop finance teams, manage performance, and foster a collaborative, service-oriented team environment.

Job description

We are here to launch, advance, and evolve careers - join us and make an impact.

Job Description

About Bow Valley College

For 60 years, Calgary's college has grown to prepare 14,000 students annually for meaningful careers in health care, social services, business, technology, and creative industries. Every program has a Work Integrated Learning requirement, ensuring students contribute to the workplace before they graduate. With a strong focus on advanced simulation training and Alberta's evolving needs, Bow Valley College's new Health Care Centre of Excellence is working to expand space and programs, aimed at graduating four-times as many health professionals annually by 2036.

Proudly recognized as one of Canada's Top 50 Research Colleges, we combine innovative learning with hands-on experience. Home to Alberta's only major e-sports arena and a state-of-the-art digital production hub. Learn more about the opportunities Bow Valley College creates for students, Calgary, and Alberta at bowvalleycollege.ca.

Position Summary

Reporting to the Financial Controller, the Manager, Financial Accounting & Reporting provides strategic and operational leadership across financial accounting, reporting, treasury operations, government reporting, and financial systems. This role plays a critical part in maintaining the integrity of the College's financial records and ensuring timely, accurate, and meaningful financial information is available to support informed decision-making.

As a people leader, the Manager oversees Accounts Payable, Accounts Receivable, and general accounting functions, fostering a culture of accountability, collaboration, service excellence, and continuous improvement. The role also contributes to the optimization and stabilization of financial systems, including Microsoft Dynamics 365, Workday, and other Finance-related platforms.

What You'll Be Doing:

Financial Accounting & Reporting

Lead the College's core accounting and financial reporting activities, ensuring accurate, complete, timely, and compliant financial records.

Key responsibilities include:

  • Managing month-end and year-end financial close.

  • Overseeing general ledger activity, journal entries, and balance-sheet reconciliations.

  • Reviewing financial results, investigating significant variances, and recommending appropriate action.

  • Supporting the preparation of internal and external financial statements.

  • Maintaining the Chart of Accounts and approving account changes.

  • Evaluating complex accounting matters and documenting conclusions in position papers.

  • Ensuring appropriate recognition of revenue, deferred revenue, accruals, and bad debts.

  • Preparing and reviewing audit working papers and supporting interim and annual audits.

  • Maintaining strong financial controls, procedures, and process documentation.

  • Responding to complex and ad hoc accounting requests from departments across the College.

Government Reporting & External Relationships

Lead accurate and compliant government reporting, liaise with the Ministry and external stakeholders, resolve reporting issues, and improve processes through technology and documentation.

Treasury & Investment Reporting

Monitor cash flow, prepare forecasts and investment reports, recommend liquidity strategies, and support treasury payments while balancing controls, risk, and investment opportunities.

Accounts Payable & Receivable

Oversee AP and AR operations, ensure timely and accurate processing, resolve vendor and customer issues, and strengthen financial processes and controls.

People Leadership & Team Development

Lead and develop finance teams, manage performance and resources, apply collective agreements, and advance departmental goals while fostering a positive, collaborative, and service-oriented team environment.

Systems & Continuous Improvement

Improve financial processes, controls, and reporting through automation and standardization; support ERP optimization, system upgrades, and evolving business needs.

What Sets You Apart

A designated accounting with strong financial reporting and leadership experience who translates complex information into clear recommendations. You are a thoughtful, collaborative leader who builds trust and accountability, enables teams to do their best work, and maintains high standards while navigating competing priorities and complex issues.

Qualifications:

Minimum

  • Bachelor's Degree

  • Accounting designation CPA-CA, CPA-CMA, CPA-CGA

  • Minimum 5 years' of financial analysis and financial reporting at progressively senior levels

  • Minimum 4 years' experience managing and mentoring teams

  • Excellent communicator with strong written and verbal skills.

Preferred:

  • Experience in post-secondary institutions is an asset.

  • Experience with leading and managing finance teams.

  • Ability to work well independently and within a team environment.

  • Strong interpersonal skills and capable of building and maintaining productive and supportive working relationships.

  • Experience in spreadsheet financial modeling.

  • Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality

  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

Closing Date: September 6, 2026

This opening is a continuous (Exempt) position. Please note all successful candidates will be required to provide copies of government issued identification and proof of educational qualifications upon hire and may be required to provide an enhanced police information check. If your education was received internationally, we will require you to provide an international education assessment through IQAS, WES, or one of the other nationally designated organizations upon hire.

Union :

Exempt

Diversity and Inclusion Commitment
Bow Valley College is strongly committed to fostering diversity and inclusion within our community. We welcome applications from qualified candidates who would contribute to the further diversification of our employees including, but not limited to, visible minorities, Indigenous peoples, persons with disabilities and persons of any sexual orientation or gender identity.

Apply