Accounting Systems Advisor (SA1) chez City of Seattle, WA

About the Department

This position is open continuously until filled. To be considered for the first review of applications, you must submit a complete application by Tuesday, December 2, 2025 at 4:00 PM PST.

Seattle Public Utilities (SPU) is seeking an Accounting Systems Strategic Advisor (SA1) to join our Accounting Division as our risk and controls expert, reporting to the Controller. This role is crucial in maintaining and enhancing SPU's internal controls, financial systems, and accounting operations.  

About Seattle Public Utilities: Seattle Public Utilities (SPU) is a community-centered utility that delivers vital services to Seattle residents and businesses including drinking water, drainage and wastewater, and garbage/recycling/compost. SPU also provides drinking water for 1.6 million customers in the region. SPU’s work includes system maintenance and improvements and keeping Seattle clean. Over 1,400 SPU employees work with our community to provide affordable and equitable stewardship of our water and waste resources for future generations.

For more information about Seattle Public Utilities (SPU), checkout the:  

• SPU Website 
• SPU Workplace Expectations
• Strategic Business Plan

SPU commits to Our City Values and Race and Social Justice as core principles that guide our work. We actively take steps to dismantle systemic racism and increase service equity. We value diverse life experiences and strive to create a workplace that is welcoming to all. We take steps to be inclusive and equitable in our recruiting, hiring and promotional opportunities. We know work isn’t only about what you do, it’s also about who you work for and with! SPU provides a fun and family-friendly work environment that supports a work life balance, including:

• Hybrid work schedule opportunities
• Family-friendly and multicultural work environment 
• Generous benefits package 
• Free public transportation options 
• City pension plan with employer/employee contributions 
• Growth potential and advancement opportunities

Position Duties

• Serve as SPU's primary accounting security administrator for the Citywide PeopleSoft Financial System
• Ensure user security review is completed timely, documented, and issues resolved for multiple systems including Customer Care Billing system, Maximo, Paradigm, and other financial platforms
• Build, implement, and administer matrix to identify conflicts in segregation of duties
• Coordinate response for IT Controls, review SOC reports to follow-up on audit issues, and map complimentary user entity controls (CUECs)
• Support systems implementation and upgrades including the current technology project,  Accounts Payable Automation
• Translate audit recommendations and propose/lead solutions to correct issues
•  Identify and lead business process changes resulting from identified risks or controls focusing on streamlined workflows.
• Lead  change management for financial systems process improvements, including documentation and training
• Contribute to financial systems design and execution with physical and systems controls focus
• Develop areas of accounting review within contractor agreements
• Monitor monthly completion of accounting internal control functions (reconciliations, checklists, etc.)
• Support credit card refunds
• Lead the annual IT general controls audit and other audits as needed
• Develop user reports and document their purpose and coding
• Serve as liaison between accounting and systems technical teams
• Assist with development and implementation of accounting policies and procedures
• Advise management on strategies, policies, procedural changes, and systems to improve internal controls and operational efficiencies, focusing on improved work processes, automated solutions, and reduced risk
• Design and lead implementation of business processes that reduce SPU's risk and improve efficiency, effectiveness, and customer service
• Build positive relationships with all levels across the Utility and City departments to ensure continuity of operations

Minimum Qualifications

Experience: Three (3) years of experience in accounting, finance, audit, or computer science 

Education: Bachelor's degree in business, public administration, finance, computer science, or related field
 

Desired Qualifications:

• Advanced skills in Microsoft Excel, PowerPoint, SQL, Cognos, and Power BI
• Financial systems and ERP data reporting expertise, particularly with PeopleSoft Financial System
• Proficient in data analysis and visualization techniques
• Strong analytical and problem-solving capabilities
• Comprehensive understanding of accounting and audit procedures/processes
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to translate complex financial insights effectively
• Knowledge and experience with project lifecycle
• Professional certification (e.g., CPA, CISA, CIA) or equivalent combination of education and experience demonstrating expertise in accounting principles and controls

Other Qualifications

Workplace Schedule/Environment:

• Hybrid schedule with remote work flexibility (minimum 3 days/week in-office). Individual schedules will be agreed upon by the employee and their supervisor.
• Work is performed both in an office environment and in a public setting.
• Collaborative, inclusive team environment

Application Requirement(s):

1. A complete NEOGOV/Government Jobs on-line application 

2. Supplemental questionnaire responses 

3. Attached Resume & Cover Letter describing your skills and experience in relation to this position. 

~Candidates submitting an incomplete Application Packages will NOT be considered~ 

The full salary range for this position is $50.08 - $75.12 per hour ($104,567.04 - $156,850.56 annually).

This hiring process involves a background check of conviction and arrest records incompliance with Seattle’s Fair Chance Employment Ordinance, SME 14.17. Applicants will be provided an opportunity to explain or correct background information.

Benefits: The City of Seattle offers a comprehensive benefits package including vacation, holiday, and sick leave as well as medical, dental, vision, life and long-term disability insurance for employees and their dependents. More information about employee benefits is available on the City's website at:https://www.seattle.gov/human-resources/benefits/employees-and-covered-family-members/most-employees-plans.

Who may apply: The City of Seattle encourages people of all backgrounds to apply, including people of color, immigrants, refugees, women, LGBTQ, people with disabilities, veterans, and those with diverse life experience. This position is open to all qualified candidates that meet the minimum qualifications. The City of Seattle values diverse perspectives and life experiences. Applicants will be considered regardless of race, color, creed, national origin, ancestry, sex, marital status, disability, religious or political affiliation, age, sexual orientation, or gender identity. 

If you have any questions, please contact Erika Monroe at [email protected]. 

Learn more about Seattle Public Utilities  at our web page www.seattle.gov/util/.