Engineering Grant Accountant

Overview

This temporary part-time remote Engineering Grant Accountant role (6+ months) involves grant, capital project, and general accounting and reporting work of considerable difficulty. The position examines and prepares budget estimates for completeness, accuracy, and conformance with grant and loan procedures and regulations.

Work includes analyzing budgeting and accounting reports, performing grant and loan budgeting, and using analytical and independent judgment to support budget development and management.

The role provides technical and financial assistance to Engineering Department project managers and performs other related duties as assigned. The employee reports directly to the Civil Engineer III (Water Resource Team) while serving multiple leaders within the Engineering Department. Work is performed with a high degree of independence and judgment.

Responsibilities

• Monitor and report on grants, loans, and capital projects
• Provide quality assurance and quality control oversight
• Maintain accounting systems related to grants and capital projects
• Support city departments with grant and loan procedures
• Work with state and federal agencies
• Provide information required for annual audits

Grant Management & Financial Administration

• Consult with stakeholders regarding grant administration and budgeting
• Interpret federal requirements related to allowable and unallowable grant costs
• Determine grant-specific indirect costs monthly
• Develop and maintain procedures for accurate financial reporting and grant monitoring
• Prepare quarterly and annual reports required by grant agreements
• Coordinate and prepare grant and loan draws and supporting documentation
• Submit grant draws to state and federal agencies
• Analyze grant agreements and compliance requirements
• Participate in grant application processes and grant setup
• Provide guidance and support regarding grant management and reporting requirements

Accounting & Financial Reporting

• Review and direct accounting entries related to grants
• Reconcile grant reimbursement records and financial transactions
• Prepare financial reports for federal agencies
• Maintain financial databases and grant-related reporting systems
• Perform financial forecasting and budget projections
• Monitor expenditures and revenue reports and recommend corrective actions
• Participate in fund balancing and reconciliation activities
• Prepare audit workpapers and coordinate audit documentation
• Assist with annual audit preparation

Budget Development & Analysis

• Assist in preparing long-range financial projections for capital projects
• Support development of annual operating and capital improvement budgets
• Review and analyze departmental budget submissions
• Prepare financial and budgetary reports
• Complete special analytical assignments

Administrative & Operational Duties

• Compile and analyze financial and project data
• Check data for recording errors
• Coordinate operational activities
• Operate standard office equipment
• Prepare correspondence, reports, and memoranda
• Handle confidential information with discretion
• Explain policies and procedures to staff and stakeholders
• Respond to inquiries and service requests
• Participate in professional development and ongoing training
• Participate in the City’s intercultural competency training program
• Follow all City policies and procedures

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

Administrative

• Knowledge of modern office procedures and accounting software
• Proficiency with spreadsheets, including pivot tables and complex formulas
• Ability to manage files, records, forms, and documentation
• Skill in operating standard office equipment

Customer Service

• Strong verbal, written, and interpersonal communication skills
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships
• Commitment to providing high-quality customer service
• Ability to work effectively in a team environment

Accounting & Bookkeeping

• Knowledge of governmental budgeting, accounting, and payroll principles
• Understanding of public finance practices and procedures
• Ability to apply accounting principles accurately and effectively

Decision-Making & Independent Judgment

• Ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• Ability to conduct independent research and analysis
• Commitment to producing accurate, high-quality work

Organization

• Ability to prioritize a substantial workload while meeting deadlines
• Strong attention to detail and organizational skills

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university with major coursework in Accounting, Finance, or a related field; and
• Experience in budgeting, accounting, and project management; or
• An equivalent combination of education and experience

Preferred Qualifications

• Certified Public Accountant (CPA) designation

Compensation & Benefits

Not specified.

Location

• Dubuque, IA
• Part-Time Remote (Temporary 6+ months)