Accountant Retirement System

Overview

PLEASE NOTE
:
This is not a merit or collective bargaining unit position for the MARYLAND-NATIONAL CAPITAL PARK AND PLANNING COMMISSION. Any individual hired for this position will be an employee of the Employees' Retirement System (ERS). The ERS is responsible for managing, protecting, diversifying, and administering benefits for the employees and beneficiaries of the Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission (M-NCPPC).

General Statement Of Job
The Accountant is responsible for executing professional accounting duties including the preparation, maintenance, analysis, and verification of financial records in accordance with established policies, procedures, and governmental regulations. This role ensures accuracy and integrity of financial data, supports budgeting and reporting activities, assists in processing staff bi-weekly payroll, prepares and transmits electronic payments for vendors, and provides financial information to management for decision-making.

The role requires sound judgment, attention to detail, and adherence to accounting standards to maintain transparency and accountability in the management of public funds. The Accountant will collaborate with team members, internal Commission departments, and external vendors, while largely working independently and exercising critical thinking and organization.

Salary Range $69,774 - $123,814

• Financial Recordkeeping & Reporting:
  Maintain accurate financial records, ledgers, and accounts, including establishing required new accounts in the financial system and custodian bank; prepare monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements in accordance with GAAP and GASB; research discrepancies to determine causes and resolutions; provide fiscal year-end support and prepare the ERS Comprehensive Annual Financial Report and Popular Annual Financial Report for external review and submittal to GFOA;
  
  ensure timely reporting to internal departments, board/committees, consultants, and auditors.
• Budget Development & Cash Flow Monitoring:
  Assist in preparing projections for cash requirements to cover personnel and operating expenditures; monitor expenditures and revenues to ensure alignment with approved budget; review investment manager transactions and reconcile with custodian bank statements.
• Compliance & Internal Controls:
  Ensure adherence to governmental accounting standards, laws, regulations, and agency policies; implement and maintain internal controls to safeguard public funds; recommend policy or procedure changes to maintain compliance and improve operating efficiency.
• Accounting Operations & Audit Support:
  Process accounts payable/receivable, payroll entries, journal entries, and adjustments; perform bank, investment, and subsidiary ledger reconciliations; maintain documentation for audit/regulatory purposes; prepare schedules and documentation for internal and external audits; respond to audit inquiries and assist in resolving findings; assist with accounting system implementations, upgrades, and testing.
• Investment
  
  Activities:
  
  Forecast cash requirements to ensure liquidity; coordinate with executive management on capital calls and distributions; reconcile investment accounts and verify custodian monthly reporting and manager statements.

• Knowledge of professional accounting principles, GAAP, and GASB; proficiency with accounting and financial management software; ability to adapt to new financial systems.
• High attention to detail, strong analytical and critical thinking skills; ability to identify and correct data discrepancies; mathematical proficiency in balancing accounts.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office (Outlook, Word, Excel); effective communication and professional interaction with internal and external contacts; ability to provide prompt, accurate accounting information to management; actively develop expertise and stay updated on relevant external guidelines.

• Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university with major coursework in accounting, finance, or related field.
• Two (2) years of progressively responsible relevant work experience at a professional level.

• Experience in the public sector and/or pension plans.
• Ability to meet deadlines and work independently; knowledge of industry-specific regulations.

The ERS offers a competitive benefits program to all full-time and part-time employees. For more information, visit (Use the "Apply for this Job" box below)..

Eligibility: You have 45 days from your hire date to elect benefits. Coverage begins on the first of the month following receipt of enrollment forms and required documentation.

Retirement Plans: Defined Benefit Plan (Mandatory Participation) – 4% contribution rate on base salary up to the maximum Social Security Wage Base (SSWB) and 8% in excess of SSWB. Deferred Compensation Mission Square 457(b) plan (Optional).

Health Insurance Plans: Medical (Kaiser HMO…