Principal Accountant (Limited-Term)

WHAT WE BELIEVE

MISSION

To foster innovative regional solutions that improve the lives of Southern Californians through inclusive collaboration, visionary planning, regional advocacy, information sharing, and promoting best practices.

VISION
Southern California's Catalyst for a Brighter Future.

SCAG CORE VALUES

• Perform advanced and complex accounting functions, including general ledger oversight, reconciliations, and financial reporting such as the state controller report, 1099 forms, Single Audit Report, and used tax returns. 
• Assist with the preparation of the Annual Comprehensive Financial Report (ACFR), including drafting financial statements, note disclosures, and supporting schedules. 
• Review grant billing and invoices.  
• Oversee month-end and year-end close processes to ensure financial transactions are accurately recorded and completed in a timely manner. 
• Ensure compliance with GAAP, internal controls, and agency policies. 
• Support internal and external audits by preparing schedules and responding to inquiries. 
• Analyze and resolve complex accounting issues and ensure accurate financial reporting. 
• Supervise or lead assigned staff, including delegating and reviewing work, providing ongoing coaching and mentorship, and conducting performance evaluations. 
• Perform other duties as assigned.

A typical way to obtain the required qualifications would be with 7 years’ of experience in working in government accounting and a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field.

Any combination of training, education, and experience that would provide the required knowledge, skills, and abilities may also be considered.

We’ll be a great match if you also have: 

• Knowledge of accounting principles and practices, including GAAP and GAAS, cash management, grant billing systems, contract and MOU requirements, and project management methodologies.
• Understanding of federal, state, and local laws, regulations, and compliance requirements related to accounting, auditing, and grant-funded expenditures, such as 2 Code of Federal Regulations 200.
• Experience assisting with the preparation of Annual Financial Statements and/or the Single Audit Report.
• Ability to perform complex accounting and financial analyses, interpret financial data, and recommend process or performance improvements.
• Skill in mathematical analysis, critical thinking, and problem-solving with strong attention to detail and accuracy.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to prepare and review clear, concise reports and financial documentation.
• Effective organizational and time management skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines.
• Ability to read, interpret, and apply policies, procedures, and regulatory requirements to ensure compliance and fiscal integrity.
• Experience supervising staff and maintaining confidentiality in handling sensitive financial and personnel information.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite at an intermediate level.

Please note, this posting will remain open until March 27, 2026, with the first application review taking place on March 13, 2026. Interested applicants are strongly encouraged to apply prior to that date. We anticipate interviews for this position will be held in five weeks.

The information you provide on the application and supplemental questionnaire will be evaluated and used to determine your eligibility to participate in the next phase of the hiring process. Please be advised that failure to provide complete and accurate information in the application and supplemental questionnaire may result in disqualification of your application even if you possess the qualifying experience or education. Please be as specific as possible and include all information as requested. Comments such as "see resume or application" will not be considered as a sufficient response. Please note that all information is subject to verification at any time in the hiring process. Falsification of any information may result in disqualification or dismissal.
 

Southern California Association of Governments is an equal opportunity employer. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, ancestry, physical disability, mental disability, mental condition, genetic information, marital status, sex, gender, gender identity, gender expression, age, sexual orientation, military and veteran status, or any other basis protected by law. 

The provisions of this job announcement do not constitute a contract, expressed or implied, and any provision contained in this job announcement may be modified or revoked without notice.