Job Description

Summary

The Town of Marblehead seeks a qualified, detail-oriented, and highly motivated professional to serve as Assistant Town Accountant. Under the general supervision of the Town Accountant, this position plays a key role in ensuring the integrity, accuracy, and transparency of the Town's financial operations. The Assistant Town Accountant supports all aspects of municipal accounting, including general ledger maintenance, journal entries, budget monitoring, financial reporting, and compliance with local, state, and federal regulations.

The successful candidate will demonstrate strong analytical skills, a commitment to public service, and a collaborative approach to supporting both Town and School departments in achieving fiscal accountability and operational efficiency.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Assists in the daily operations of the Accounting Division, maintaining financial records for all Town departments and ensuring compliance with Massachusetts General Laws and Uniform Massachusetts Accounting System (UMAS) standards. Prepares, records, and reconciles journal entries for all funds, including general, enterprise, revolving, grant, and special revenue accounts. Reviews and reconciles monthly cash, monthly receivables, and daily revenues in coordination with the Treasurer/Collector and departmental staff. Prepares and maintains supporting documentation for all journal entries, including indirect cost allocations and interfund transfers. Assists in preparing complex accounting reports, including the Tax Recap Sheet, Schedule A and the Balance Sheet. Participates in the annual independent audit, preparing schedules, gathering supporting documentation, and responding to auditor requests. Assists in the month-end and fiscal year-end closing processes, ensuring accuracy and completeness of financial data. Supervises accounting support staff; assigns, reviews, and monitors daily work to ensure accuracy and compliance. Monitors departmental and enterprise fund budgets; Participates in internal auditing and special assignments as assigned by the Finance Director. Reviews and verifies payroll warrants, reconciles deductions and withholdings, and performs payroll audit by exception. Prepares, reviews, and files annual 1099 reports in compliance with IRS and Massachusetts Department of Revenue regulations. Responsible for fixed asset accounting records and updating of the fixed asset file for town and school annually. Supports the Town's budgeting process, including salary and expense projections and department-level financial analysis. Collaborates with departments and external agencies to resolve accounting issues and provide training or guidance on financial procedures and policies. Maintains and updates the chart of accounts, creates and edits funds, and establishes new grants/donations/capital and project accounts in MUNIS. Assumes the duties and statutory responsibilities of the Town Accountant during absences. Performs other related duties as required or assigned.

Minimum Qualifications:

Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or Business Administration required; Master's degree preferred. A minimum of four (4) to six (6) years of progressively responsible experience in municipal accounting, auditing, or public sector finance. Demonstrated knowledge of Massachusetts municipal finance laws, GAAP, GASB, and UMAS standards strongly preferred. Experience with MUNIS or comparable ERP/financial management systems preferred.

Certifications

Must possess or obtain

Certified Governmental Accountant (CGA)

designation from the Massachusetts Municipal Auditors' and Accountants' Association (MMAAA) within three (3) years of hire.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

Strong understanding of governmental fund accounting. Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Exce

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, including formulas and pivot tables. Ability to interpret and apply local, state, and federal laws governing municipal finance. Skilled in identifying and resolving complex accounting issues. Exceptional organizational, analytical, and problem-solving skills with attention to detail. Strong verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to explain technical concepts clearly. High ethical standards and discretion in handling confidential financial information.

Working Conditions

Work performed primarily in a professional office environment with frequent interruptions. Regular use of standard office equipment including computers, calculators, and multi-function printers. May involve occasional lifting of files or materials weighing up to 30 pounds. Requires ability to concentrate and complete detailed work with accuracy and efficiency.

Confidentiality and Impact of Errors

This position has access to highly sensitive information regarding employees, payroll, and financial transactions. Errors could result in financial loss, delay of services, and potential legal or audit exposure for the Town. The Assistant Town Accountant must exercise professional judgment, discretion, and integrity at all times.

Professional Development

The Town encourages ongoing professional growth. The Assistant Town Accountant is expected to maintain active membership in professional associations such as the MMAAA and pursue continuing education in governmental accounting, technology systems, and public finance.

To Apply

Qualified applicants should submit a cover letter, resume, and professional references to the Town of Marblehead Human Resources Department by email at HowardT@marbleheadma.gov or apply directly on our website at:

EOE/AA

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $83,841.05 - $108,993.25 per year

Benefits:

403(b) Dental insurance Disability insurance Employee assistance program Flexible spending account Health insurance Life insurance Paid sick time Paid time off Retirement plan Vision insurance
Ability to Commute:

Marblehead, MA 01945 (Required)
Ability to Relocate:

Marblehead, MA 01945: Relocate before starting work (Required)
Work Location: In person