Principal Accountant

POSITION DESCRIPTION

The City of Fresno is currently recruiting a Principal Accountant for the Accounting Unit. Under general direction, the Principal Accountant is responsible for overseeing the City’s disbursement operations, ensuring accurate financial reporting and compliance with GAP and GASB standards. This role manages vendor payments, supports the Annual Comprehensive Financial Report (ACFR), and maintains strong internal controls. As a technical expert, the Principal Accountant enhances efficiency, resolves payment issues, and ensures adherence to City policies and regulatory requirements.

The position also supervises staff, improves financial systems, and serves as a liaison during audits.

The Principal Accountant must exercise considerable independent judgment relating to the development and deployment of accounting procedures, processes, and policies.

• Graduation from an accredited four‑year college or university with major coursework in accounting, business administration, public administration, or a related field.
• Two (2) years of supervisory experience, preferably in a public sector organization.
• Applicants must attach a copy of transcripts for education verification. Applications lacking the attachment may be rejected.

• Possession of a valid license as a Certified Public Accountant issued by the State of California Board of Accountancy is desirable.
• Eligibles certified for consideration for this position will be required to successfully pass a Department interview and a Department of Justice fingerprint process prior to employment.

The examination process may consist of the following:

• Application Review – Qualifying only:
  Applications that meet the minimum qualifications will be reviewed and a limited number of the most qualified candidates will be invited to the oral examination.
• Oral Examination – 100%: A panel of subject matter experts will conduct a job‑related oral examination to evaluate a candidate’s knowledge of accounting principles, office technology, and leadership and interpersonal skills. Candidates must achieve a passing score to qualify for the eligible list.
• The oral exam is tentatively scheduled for the week of February 16, 2026.

• HEALTH INSURANCE The City contributes toward monthly premiums for PPO medical, dental, and vision for employee and dependents.
• FLEXIBLE SPENDING ACCOUNT IRS 125 Plan for health and dependent care expenses.
• DEFERRED COMPENSATION Voluntary 457 plan with Fidelity Investments to increase retirement savings.
• MANAGEMENT LEAVE 60 hours per fiscal year for exempt employees.
• ANNUAL LEAVE Accrue 15.5 hours per month with cash out provisions.
• SUPPLEMENTAL SICK LEAVE 40 hours per fiscal year; 80 hours lifetime maximum.
• HOLIDAYS Ten City‑observed annual holidays plus birthday and two personal days.
• LIFE INSURANCE Benefit equal to annual salary; premium paid by the City.
• LONG‑TERM DISABILITY Benefit equal to 66.66% of monthly salary up to $7,500 per month after 30 days of disability; premium paid by the City.
• BILINGUAL PREMIUM $100 per month.
• HEALTH REIMBURSEMENT ARRANGEMENT Eligible retirees can use remaining Sick Leave balance at 80% of hourly rate and other leave balances, if applicable, to reimburse medical insurance and qualified medical expenses, tax free.
• RETIREMENT City of Fresno Retirement Systems; reciprocity with other California public agencies; vested after five years of service. City employees do not participate in Social Security.
• DEFERRED RETIREMENT OPTION PROGRAM (DROP) Optional, voluntary program allowing an employee to deposit retirement benefits in a special savings account while continuing to work for up to 10 years. Participation minimum is age 50 and vested.

Applicants must complete an online application via (Use the "Apply for this Job" box below). For information on how to complete an online application, please view "Instruction Guide" on the City's website or call  for assistance. Resumes will not be accepted in lieu of a completed employment application.

• Verify your correct e‑mail address before you submit your application.
• All applicants will receive an automatically generated confirmation…