You are viewing a preview of this job. Log in or register to view more details about this job.

Accounting Director

Texas Department of Agriculture
Email

HOW TO APPLY

Apply online at via CAPPS. Applicants applying in WIT must complete the supplemental questions to be considered for the position. To complete the supplemental questions, go to CAPPS Recruit: https://capps.taleo.net/careersection/ex/jobsearch.ftl?lang=en.

WHO ARE WE 

The Texas Department of Agriculture Financial Services Division supports TDA programs by performing financial duties in the areas of accounting, budget, purchasing, and contracting. The Accounting Section manages the agency general ledger, accounts payable, travel, payroll, revenue, and develops agency financial reports, including the Annual Financial Report and Indirect Cost Rate Proposal. TDA receives payments for licensing and fees and Accounting receives and deposits these funds. 

WHAT YOU’LL DO

The Accounting Director will work in a fast-paced, multi-faceted environment performing highly advanced (senior-level) managerial work providing direction and guidance in strategic operations and planning. You will assist the Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and Deputy Chief Financial Officer (DCFO) in directing and overseeing the effective management of the Texas Department of Agriculture’s (TDA) accounting functions; develop, execute, and achieve the strategic goals and objectives of the division, manage complex issues, and be involved in long-term planning to contribute to the attainment of the agency’s goals, objectives, and mission. You will work on developing and establishing financial strategies, goals, and objectives; reviewing guidelines, procedures, rules, and regulations; and developing, implementing, and evaluating accounting processes and reporting. You will work under minimal supervision with extensive latitude for the use of initiative and independent judgment.

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Direct and manage the daily operations of the accounting section, including personnel management functions, timesheet approval, and performance appraisals and ensuring compliance with agency policies and administrative requirements.
  • Direct the daily operations of the accounting section including accounts payable, travel, payroll, revenue, cash management, and financial reporting for state and federal funds. Ensure the accuracy of all financial transactions and records with regular reconciliation between State of Texas online accounting systems (CAPPS and USAS).
  • Oversee the month and year end close ensuring tasks are completed in a timely manner and in accordance with State of Texas guidelines. 
  • Oversee agency travel reimbursements and ensure staff  are meeting the 45 day reimbursement standard.
  • Oversee payables and ensure section is meeting requirements for prompt payment and interest accrued is minimal.
  • Adhere to all State of Texas reporting and submission deadlines as well as deadlines imposed by internal/external auditors.
  • Responsible for preparing and submitting the annual Indirect Cost Rate Proposal to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA).
  • Responsible for preparing the Annual Financial Report (AFR) to the state Comptroller; federal and state grant reporting; and revenue and cash management reporting. Assist with the preparation of revenue schedules for the agency operating budget and Legislative Appropriation Request, as needed.
  • Develop, maintain, and review processes and procedures ensuring appropriate internal controls in accounting systems exist. 
  • Develop guidelines, procedures, and rules for all regular activities. Ensure compliance with state and federal regulations, including Comptroller rules and policies.
  • Ensure the division staff is technically proficient in meeting long-term operational goals through activities such as classroom training, team building, on-the-job training, operational manuals, job rotations, and special assignments and projects; ensure employees share knowledge through cross training and documented procedures.
  • Evaluate division operations, risks, and performance to identify opportunities for improvements and enhancements to internal processes and customer service. Develop action plans and implement improvement activities.
  • Follow all TDA policies and procedures.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

  • Bachelor’s Degree with major coursework in Finance, Accounting, Business Administration, Economics, or related field (one year of work experience related to the primary responsibilities may substitute for one year of college). 
  • Six (6) years’ work experience administering complex financial, accounting, or budgeting programs for a governmental entity.
  • Three (3) years’ work experience serving in a lead, supervisory, managerial or director role administering complex accounting programs consisting of a team with at least 5 direct reports.
  • Experience preparing annual financial reports.
  • Extensive work experience in GL Accounting.
  • Extensive work experience in month and year end close processes.
  • Experience in payroll monitoring. 
  • A Master’s degree in Finance, Accounting, Business Administration, Economics or related field or a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) license (in good standing) can substitute for an undergraduate degree and two (2) years of work experience. 

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

  • Experience in a complex financial, accounting, or budgeting program in a Texas state agency.
  • Experience in a director capacity.
  • Experience compiling the Annual Financial Report for a state agency.
  • Experience with both the CAPPS and USAS State of Texas financial systems.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES

  • Knowledge of governmental fund accounting; Texas state laws pertaining to public funds, governmental finance, automated accounting systems and Comptroller of Public Accounts accounting policies, the General Appropriations Act, and the Uniform Statewide Accounting System.
  • Skill in developing financial reports; leadership, management and strategic planning; problem solving, and relationship management; conflict resolution;  interpreting the regulations related to the assigned programs and ensuring that regulations are followed; providing customer service excellence to both internal and external customers by demonstrating poise, tact, and diplomacy to maintain positive working/professional relations; strong analytical and project management;  the use of a computer and applicable software and critical thinking skills.
  • Ability to interpret and learn TDA policies and procedures and the laws and regulations administered and enforced by the division; direct and organize program activities and/or business functions; establish goals and objectives that support the strategic plan; identify problems, evaluate alternatives, and implement effective solutions; develop and evaluate policies and procedures; prepare reports; communicate effectively; build effective and strategic relationships among diverse groups of people;  energize, develop and build rapport at all levels within an organization;  anticipate needs and risks;  supervise the work of others; and exercise sound judgment and discretion.

ENVIRONMENTAL/PHYSICAL CONDITIONS

Normal office work environment and may have exposure to dust and environmental allergens consistent with normal business activities and human contact. Mostly sedentary in nature but may involve walking; standing; pulling and pushing; kneeling, stooping, and bending; performing tasks requiring fine motor skills and coordination; and safely lifting and carrying items weighing up to 30 pounds. Must be able to work extended periods at a computer and may require working extended hours and some evenings and weekends, as needed. May be required to travel, which will include overnight. May involve travel (up to 5%*), occasionally overnight.

WORK HOURS & TELEWORK

Standard office hours for Agency employees are 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. Our agency offers alternate schedules for employees, if it does not adversely affect operations and service levels, and standard hours of operation are maintained. TDA does not offer telework for Senior Level Staff who supervise employees. This position does not qualify for telework. 

BENEFITS

The State of Texas offers a variety of benefits for you and your family that are comprehensive and, on average, make up about one-third of total compensation. Benefits include:

  • Retirement Plan
  • Paid Group Health & Life Insurance for employees 
  • Paid Holidays
  • Paid Vacation Leave
  • Paid Sick Leave
  • Longevity Pay
  • Dental
  • Vision
  • Dependent Optional Life Insurance
  • Voluntary AD&D Insurance
  • Dependent Health & Life Insurance
  • Health & Dependent care flexible spending accounts

Only candidates selected for an interview will be contacted. A skills exercise may be conducted at the time of the interview. 

Due to the high volume of applications, we do not accept telephone calls.  If you submitted your application through the CAPPS Career Center, you may also check the status of your application by accessing your profile and selecting My Jobpage and selecting My Submissions.

 

A valid government-issued driver’s license, which is recognized by the Texas Department of Public Safety and in good standing, and an acceptable driving record are required. TDA will verify this information with the Texas Department of Public Safety. Applicants with a driver’s license not issued by the State of Texas should obtain and be prepared to provide a copy of their current driving record on or before their first day.

 

Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO): The Texas Department of Agriculture (TDA) is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (gender, sexual orientation, and pregnancy), national origin, disability, age, military status, genetic information, or protected activity (retaliation). TDA provides accommodations for persons with disabilities in accordance with the American with Disabilities Act. If you need help with the employment process or require other accommodations, please contact the Human Resources office for assistance at (512) 463-7423. 

 

TDA participates in E-Verify and will provide the Social Security Administration and, if necessary, the Department of Homeland Security, with information from each new employee's Form I-9 to confirm work authorization. 

 

Military and Former Foster Child Employment Preference: TDA complies with the provisions of the military and former foster child employment preference acts. Please contact our Human Resources-Veterans Liaison at (512) 463-7454 for assistance.

 

Go to https://texasskillstowork.com/, https://www.onetonline.org/, or http://www.careeronestop.org/ for assistance translating your military experience and training courses into civilian job terms, qualifications/requirements, and skill sets.

 

Additional Military Occupational Specialty (MOS) Code or Crosswalk information is available from the Texas State Auditor’s Office at  Program Management MOS Codes.