Accountant VII

DSHS is committed to hiring skilled and dedicated individuals who share a passion for public health to pursue our vision of A Healthy Texas. If you are looking to make an impact and tackle new challenges, we encourage you to consider a career with us.

Employee Benefits:

DSHS offers insurance coverage and other benefits available through the State of Texas Group Benefits Plan administered by the Employee Retirement System of Texas (ERS). To learn more about all the benefits available to you as a DSHS employee and other DSHS opportunities for early career pathways, visit the DSHS Careers Page.

Review our Top 10 Tips for Success when Applying to State of Texas Jobs.

Brief Job Description:

This position reports to the Financial Reporting Unit Manager.  Performs highly advanced (senior-level) accounting work with minimal supervision and extensive latitude for the use of initiative and independent judgment.  This position requires comprehensive knowledge of CAPPS Financials and the Uniform Statewide Accounting System (USAS), and requires working knowledge of generally accepted accounting principles and federal and state rules and regulations relating to DSHS financial operations. Work involves complex and precise accounting work preparing and/or overseeing the preparation of financial analyses and reports, including but not limited to: the Agency's Annual Financial Report and Annual Non-Financial Report, the Agency Federal Indirect Cost Rate Proposal/Plan, the Agency Fee Manual, and Property Accounting.  Peforms tasks and responsiblities related to establishing, maintaining, and/or overseeing accounting systems, procedures, and controls; and contributing to the preparation of agency budgets. Monitors financial activity, audits, prepares complex journal entries, analyzes USAS and CAPPS Financial coding elements for proper transaction classification.  Serves as backup to Unit Manager and as such, may supervise and lead the work of others.  This position is eligible for Telework.

Essential Job Functions (EJFs):

EJF1. Reporting

Prepares, coordinates, and directs the planning, development, and submission of the agency’s financial reporting in accordance with Governmental Accounting Standards Board (GASB), Office of the Comptroller of Public Accounts, and applicable State and Federal requirements.  This reporting includes but is not limited to: the Agency's Annual Financial Report and Annual Non-Financial Report, the Agency Federal Indirect Cost Rate Proposal/Plan, the Agency Fee Manual, and Property Accounting.  Oversees and/or coordinates data compilation for agency reporting, which may include working with the Office of the Comptroller of Public Accounts’ Financial Reporting Section and other State Agencies to compile the statewide reporting. (40%)

EJF2. Financial Transactions

Oversees and monitors financial transactions for appropriate classification of accounting entries related to revenues and expenditures and agency financial reporting.  Oversees, plans, and directs end of year accounting transactions involving agency profiles, work paper preparation, determination, and entry of adjusting journal transactions into accounting systems (HHSAS and USAS), coordination of transactions with other agencies, transactions related to General Revenue Certification, Schedule of Expenditures for Federal Awards, Capital Asset reconciliation and information gathering.  (25%)

EJF3. Plan/Direct work/System Development

Serves as backup to Unit Manager and as such, may supervise and lead the work of others. 

Oversees the analysis of processing system functionality and recommends changes as necessary. May design and consult with information technology staff in the development of computer systems for financial applications. Develops goals and objectives for assigned responsibility areas/tasks and oversees the analysis and interpretation of patterns and related data impacting the financial position of the agency. (20%)

EJF4. Audits

Works closely with both internal and external audit staff, including state and federal.  Takes the lead in preparing audit related responses and corrective action for assigned responsibility areas/tasks.  Works with management to address audit-identified systemic issues that impact the agency. (5%)

EJF5. Policy/Procedure

Recommends and implements agency accounting and financial policies and procedures in accordance with statute and professionally accepted standards.  Ensures all procedures are documented and centrally located, and that all staff are cross trained in assigned duties.  Formulates, revises, and reviews agency policies regarding financial reporting and related responsibilities and serves as subject matter expert for policy revisions. (5%)

EJF6. Other Duties as Assigned.

Performs related duties as assigned that include but are not limited to actively participating and/or serving in a supporting role to meet the agency’s obligations for disaster response and/or recovery or continuity of operations (COOP) activation. Such participation may require an alternate shift pattern assignment and/or location. (5%)

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities (KSAs):

Knowledge of generally accepted accounting principles and procedures.

Knowledge of State accounting operations.

Knowledge of USAS

Knowledge of HHSAS

Knowledge of federal and state law relating to DSHS financial operations.

Knowledge of State of Texas accounting procedures for state agencies.

Skill in written and oral communication.

Skill in the use and implementation of automated financial systems.

Skill in documenting procedures and processes.

Ability to work independently with minimum supervision.

Ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines.

Ability to prioritize workload and deadlines.

Ability to understand and follow instructions.

Ability to retain records according to all applicable rules and regulations, including supporting documentation used to produce work products.

Ability to apply accounting theory and procedures to detailed and complex problems.

Ability to work with numerical detail for long periods of time.

Ability to use database, spreadsheet, word processing and electronic mail applications.

Ability to handle several tasks simultaneously.

Ability to handle interruptions of work and maintain accuracy in work produced.

Ability to use good judgment in applying DSHS policies and procedures.

Ability to maintain effective relations with administrative personnel of DSHS, other state agencies, and the Federal Government.

Ability work effectively as part of a team.

Ability to work with a diverse group of individuals and maintain working relationships.

Registrations, Licensure Requirements or Certifications:

N/A

Initial Screening Criteria:

• Required longevity in prior positions such as 2 years and experience with advanced Excel.
• Minimum of 7 years’ experience compiling and presenting Texas government financial information.
• Experience in state expenditure laws and regulations
• Graduation from an accredited four-year college or university with major course work in accounting or finance is generally preferred. Experience and education may be substituted for one another.

Additional Information:

All applicants will be required to complete a skills test to demonstrate proficiencies and perspectives associated with this role at the time of the interview.

Active Duty, Military, Reservists, Guardsmen, and Veterans:

Military occupation(s) that relate to the initial selection criteria and registration or licensure requirements for this position may include, but not limited to those listed in this posting. All active-duty military, reservists, guardsmen, and veterans are encouraged to apply if qualified for this position. For more information see the Texas State Auditor’s Military Crosswalk at https://hr.sao.texas.gov/CompensationSystem/JobDescriptions/.

ADA Accommodations:

In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), DSHS will provide reasonable accommodation during the hiring process for individuals with a qualifying disability. If reasonable accommodation is needed to participate in the interview process, please notify the person who contacts you to schedule the interview. If you need assistance completing the on-line application, contact the HHS Employee Service Center at 1-888-894-4747 or via email at HHSServiceCenter.Applications@ngahrhosting.com.

Salary Information, Pre-employment Checks, and Work Eligibility:

• The salary offered will follow DSHS starting salary guidelines. Any employment offer is contingent upon available budgeted funds.
• Depending on the program area and position requirements, applicants selected for hire may be required to pass background and other due diligence checks.
• DSHS uses E-Verify. You must bring your I-9 documentation with you on your first day of work.  Download the I-9 form