Senior Accountant

** JOB SUMMARY*
* To provide technical accounting leadership for technology projects and initiatives. This role will support the Technology Accounting Review Committee (TARC), ensuring that software and hardware investments are accounted for in compliance with GAAP, FERC, and company policies. The position will serve as a bridge between the SCS Technology Organization and various accounting functions (System Accounting Research, Corporate Accounting, Budgeting & Reporting, and Property Accounting) to resolve complex accounting issues.

** Major Responsibilities*
* + Serve as a member of the Technology Accounting Review Committee (TARC), providing sound accounting guidance on software and hardware projects and other non-routine technology initiatives. Ensure accounting treatments for technology investments are in full compliance with FASB/GAAP standards, SEC reporting requirements, FERC regulations, and Southern Company policies.

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Cross-Functional Collaboration:

Act as a liaison between the SCS Technology organization and key departments - including System Accounting Research, Corporate Accounting, Budgeting & Reporting, and Property Accounting - to address accounting questions and coordinate proper accounting treatment for technology-related expenditures. Facilitate conversations and problem resolution among these groups to ensure alignment and understanding of accounting decisions.

+ Accounting Research & Issue Resolution:
Proactively identify, research, and resolve technical accounting issues (e.g. software capitalization, cloud arrangements, project cost allocation, regulatory considerations) with minimal guidance. Provide well-reasoned accounting recommendations and write-ups for review.

+ Evaluate the impact of new accounting standards and participate in the adoption of the new standards.

+ Document and communicate complex accounting decisions and cost recovery mechanisms for technology projects.

+ Organizational Leadership:
Exhibit strong organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple priorities. Take initiative to improve processes and efficiency in the budgeting and accounting for technology projects. Establish and maintain effective relationships and communications with business unit and project managers

+ Strong organizational skills are a must

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* Job Requirements:

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* + Must have a minimum of 5 years' experience required

+ Ideal candidate will have accounting research experience

** Education*
* + Bachelor's degree in Accounting or a related business field is required.

+ A graduate degree in Accounting or Finance is a plus.

+ CPA preferred

+ Progressive accounting experience in accounting, finance or auditing roles. Prior experience in property accounting (accounting for capital assets, CWIP, depreciation, etc.) is preferred, as this role will frequently interface with Property Accounting. Previous experience in accounting, finance, or related field preferred  

+ In-depth knowledge of accounting principles and standards - including FASB/GAAP, SEC reporting requirements, and where applicable, FERC and other regulatory accounting guidance.

+ Experience in researching and interpreting technical accounting literature to apply it to real-world scenarios.

+ Experience in technology accounting or working directly with IT project financials (such as software development cost accounting, cloud computing arrangements, etc.) is highly beneficial.

** Experience*
* ** Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities*
* + Extensive knowledge of FASB, GAAP and SEC accounting and reporting standards and requirements

+ Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal. Able to translate complex accounting information into clear, concise explanations for senior management and non-financial partners. Tailors communication style to the audience, whether it's detailed technical reports or executive summaries.  Strong interpersonal skills to effectively interact with accounting, budgeting, various non-financial functional areas, and varying levels of staff and management

+ Ability to proactively identify, research, and resolve technical accounting issues (e.g. software capitalization, cloud arrangements, project cost…