Financial/Budget Analyst at City of San Marcos, TX, TX

About the Department

Under the general direction of the Budget Manager, the Financial/Budget Analyst supports the development, implementation, and monitoring of the City’s Annual Budget.  This role involves compiling financial and statistical data, preparing reports, and conducting analysis to support budget planning.  Responsibilities include creating schedules, charts, graphs, and other materials to aid in budget presentation and decision-making.

Position Duties

• Participates in the preparation of the annual operating budget by gathering, analyzing, and compiling supporting documentation; assists departments with line-item and program budget components and prepares budget materials in a format suitable for presentation to the City Manager, City Council, and in accordance with GFOA Distinguished Budget Presentation standards.
• Analyzes departmental budget submissions and mid-year projections for accuracy, completeness, and reasonableness; provides recommendations to management and works with departments to resolve budget-related concerns and inquiries.
• Reviews and analyzes monthly expenditure and accounting reports to identify trends, ensure compliance with the approved budget, and maintain consistency with the chart of accounts. 
• Coordinates the development of monthly and quarterly financial reports; researches and compiles financial and statistical data; evaluates variances between budgeted and actual revenues and expenditures, and recommends adjustments as needed. 
• Develops annual salary and benefit projections and monitors personnel expenses throughout the year.
• Monitors, analyzes, and forecasts revenues, including taxes and service fees, using statistical methods to assess financial trends and support long-range financial planning.  
• Attend meetings with department representatives, department heads, the City Manager, and City Council to support the budget process; participate in public hearings related to the budget and tax rate.
• Reviews and processes departmental budget transfer requests and enters approved changes into the financial system.
• Contributes to team efforts by performing other related duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications

A bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, Business, Public Administration, or a related field from an accredited college or university, plus a minimum of three (3) years of professional experience in financial or budget analysis, preferably in municipal government or a similar setting.  

Other Qualifications

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

Certified Government Finance Officer (CGFO) desired.    

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:

• Knowledge of governmental structure, leadership, and municipal operations.
• Knowledge of fiscal impact, statistical methods, and financial analysis techniques.
• Experience with budget preparation, controls, and legal requirements.
• Strong analytical skills with the ability to evaluate data and present findings in an accurate, unbiased, and effective manner.
• Skilled in managing multiple priorities, meeting deadlines, and adapting to changing circumstances.
• Ability to use independent judgment to make sound recommendations.
• Ability to prepare reports, proposals, plans, and recommendations.
• Advanced Microsoft Excel skills, including data calculation, tabulation, and analysis.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office applications, with strong skills in Word and PowerPoint.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision by following verbal and written instructions.
• Ability to establish and maintain positive working relationships with employees, management, and external stakeholders.
• Demonstrates accuracy, thoroughness, and a commitment to continuous improvement.  

JOB DIMENSIONS

• Must be able to interpret and apply regulations governing municipal accounting activities.
• Must be able to read and comprehend financial reports, bank statements, spreadsheets, and accounting policies.
• Must maintain effective verbal and written communication and positive working relationships with City departments, outside agencies, banks, vendors, and local businesses.
• Must be able to prioritize tasks and manage multiple responsibilities effectively.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS AND WORKING CONDITIONS

This position requires the ability to occasionally lift and carry items weighing up to 15 pounds.  The role involves constant use of vision for reading, computer work, and detailed tasks.  Frequent activities include sitting, handling objects, and performing tasks that require fine motor skills. Standing, walking, lifting, carrying, pushing or pulling, reaching, balancing, hearing, and speaking may be required occasionally.  Bending, twisting, climbing, and the use of foot controls are rarely required.