Manager Of Accounting Department Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Description Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG) is seeking a hands-on leader to fill the Department Manager of Accounting - Limited-Term position during an instrumental era of transformation for the agency as we embark on the implementation of a new Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system over the next few years. The Department Manager of Accounting will be a self-starter who possesses excellent communication, organizational, problem-solving skills, and the proven ability to identify solutions for business challenges, lead organizational change, and foster a collaborative team environment. Under general direction of the Chief Financial Officer, the Department Manager of Accounting will assume full managerial responsibility for the Accounting Department consisting of 19 full-time employees.

This position is responsible for planning, directing, coordinating, and evaluating departmental operations, programs, and staff administration, and oversight of the preparation of the Annual Comprehensive Financial Report (ACFR). The Department Manager of Accounting will collaborate with the Chief Financial Officer, Division Heads, Finance Managers and staff to pioneer best practices and streamline finance processes to support Agency activities. It is crucial that the Department Manager of Accounting possesses strong leadership, strong knowledge of government accounting standards, good judgment and decision-making skills, excellent communication skills, employee management and development skills, and a customer-service orientation to serve as a resource to all SCAG divisions.

The Accounting Department supports all agency programs through functions such as accounts payable, accounts receivable, payroll, and financial reporting. The Accounting Department is responsible for accurately documenting various types of financial transactions, GASB implementations, and providing outstanding customer service. WHO WE ARE As a mission-driven organization, SCAG is committed to attracting and retaining talent who embody SCAG's values.

SCAG's workforce is passionate and committed to innovation that improves the quality of life for all Southern Californians. When you join SCAG, you can expect a culture where collaboration and teamwork is fostered. As part of our Work@SCAG policy, employees are eligible for two work models: in-office and hybrid.

Eligibility for these models will depend on the department, position, responsibilities, and duties, as determined by management. All work models require employees to be based within the SCAG region. This position is expected to follow the hybrid model and be in the office 2 days per week.

WHAT WE BELIEVE MISSION To foster innovative regional solutions that improve the lives of Southern Californians through inclusive collaboration, visionary planning, regional advocacy, information sharing, and promoting best practices. VISION Southern California's Catalyst for a Brighter Future. SCAG CORE VALUES Be Open: Be accessible, candid, collaborative and transparent in the work we do.

Lead by Example: Commit to integrity and equity in working to meet the diverse needs of all people and communities in our region. Make an Impact: In all endeavors, effect positive and sustained outcomes that make our region thrive. Be Courageous: Have confidence that taking deliberate, bold and purposeful risks can yield new and valuable benefits.

Cultivate Belonging: Embrace differences, foster equity, champion inclusion, and empower all. In this role you can expect to Assume management responsibility for all Accounting department services and activities. Oversee key accounting functions including financial reporting, external audit administration, oversight of the preparation of the Annual Comprehensive Financial Report (ACFR), payroll and tax reporting, grant billing and accounts receivable, accounts payable, and other accounting operations.

Manage department staff including assigning and reviewing work, providing coaching and guidance, supporting professional development, and conducting performance evaluations. Manage and participate in the development and implementation of goals, objectives, policies, and priorities for Accounting Department programs and operations. Continuously monitor and evaluate the efficiency and effectiveness of service delivery methods and procedures; assess and monitor workload, administrative and support systems, and internal reporting relationships; identify opportunities for improvement and review with the Chief Financial Officer; direct the implementation of improvements.

Develop and standardize procedures, methods, and workflows to continuously monitor the efficiency and workload of staff ensuring continuity of operations during the implementation period of SCAG's new ERP system. Manage and participate in the development and administration of departmental budgets and forecast staffing, consultant, technology, and other resource needs. Access financial data and information for preparation of reports pertaining to the General Fund, Special Revenue funds, and other reports to assess fund utilization by SCAG and use of resources available to SCAG.

Monitor, record and report OPEB and Pension Obligations. Serve as a liaison for Accounting with the Regional Council, other SCAG departments and divisions, and outside agencies; negotiate and resolve significant and controversial issues. Communicate directly with Federal and State administrators, contractors, subregions, and other stakeholders to support Accounting Department operations and agency priorities.

Perform other duties as assigned. What you'll bring to this role A typical way to obtain the required qualifications would be with 7 years of experience in government accounting, 4 years of management or direct supervisory experience, and a Bachelor's degree in a relevant field. A CPA is highly desirable.

Any combination of training, education, and experience that would provide the required knowledge, skills, and abilities may also be considered. We'll be a great match if you also have: Knowledge of governmental accounting principles, financial reporting practices, and applicable federal, state, and local regulations. Experience overseeing the preparation of the annual ACFR.

Knowledge of principles and practices of leadership and supervision. The ability to strategically plan and coordinate the work of a department. Knowledge of federal and state grant administration guidelines.

Experience developing and administering departmental budgets and managing organizational resources. Strong communication skills with the ability to translate technical information to all levels of staff and stakeholders. High level of attention to detail with effective analytical and problem-solving skills.

The ability to identify opportunities for improvement and implement procedures to streamline processes. Supplemental Information Please note, this is a continuous recruitment which means we will accept applications on a continuous basis. The first application review will take place on August 3, 2026 and the job posting may be closed at any time after that.

Interested applicants are strongly encouraged to apply prior to that date. The information you provide on the application and supplemental questionnaire will be evaluated and used to determine your eligibility to participate in the next phase of the hiring process. Please be advised that failure to provide complete and accurate information in the application and supplemental questionnaire may result in disqualification of your application even if you possess the qualifying experience or education.

Please be as specific as possible and include all information as requested. Comments such as "see resume or application" will not be considered as a sufficient response. Please note that all information is subject to verification at any time in the hiring process.

Falsification of any information may result in disqualification or dismissal. Southern California Association of Governments is an equal opportunity employer. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, ancestry, physical disability, mental disability, mental condition, genetic information, marital status, sex, gender, gender identity, gender expression, age, sexual orientation, military and veteran status, or any other basis protected by law.

The provisions of this job announcement do not constitute a contract, expressed or implied, and any provision contained in this job announcement may be modified or revoked without notice.