Account Specialist

PURPOSE

Performs a variety of technical accounting duties as needed to reconciliation complex utility services and accounts.

SUPERVISION RECEIVED

Works under the general supervision of the Accounting Supervisor.

SUPERVISION EXERCISED

May provide close to general supervision to support staff while in training or on a project-by-project basis.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS (A position may not include all of the duties listed, nor do the listed examples include all duties that may be found in a position of this class).

Works with Solid Waste staff in setting up customer accounts; monitors account activity, usage and status, i.e., cancellations, including solid waste commercial transfers; prepares work orders and initiates set up for new wastewater effluent customer accounts; initiates and follows up on work orders for re-reads, transfers, account corrections, meter maintenance, cancellations, etc.; initiates and may conduct field investigations, etc.

Participates in the review of subdivision plans to determine addressing and billing information; may conduct site examinations to verify addresses, etc.; may conduct field investigations on accounts to verify meter distribution and billing accuracy; may accompany meter readers to resolve billing questions or problems; assists ITT staff with system testing, updates and program changes.

Researches, analyzes, reconciles and resolves complex problems with utility accounts. Prepares adjustments, monitors and follows up on accounts to ensure resolution and correctness. Meets with customers to resolve problems, clarifies account information, history, adjustments and presents solutions.

Verifies that fiscal transactions have been properly documented in account and cash journals from source documents. Prepares and maintains files of fiscal transactions, reports and documents. Verifies, receives and receipts assessments, taxes, revenues, etc. from departments, customers and the general public.

Posts information from fiscal documents. Prepares reviews and batches accounting documents. Verifies/reconciles computer data against accounting records. Determines activity codes/accounts required for posting payments and/or disposition.

Researches and responds to telephone, written or personal inquiries regarding fiscal transactions, customer accounts, City policies and related matters to public/users.

May act as a lead worker to clerk typists, account technicians, less experienced, temporary or seasonal clerical personnel or volunteers while in training or on a project-by-project basis.

For assignment at Collections/Utility Billing:
Researches, analyzes, reconciles and resolves complex problems with Utility accounts.

Prepares adjustments, monitors and follows up on accounts to ensure resolution and correctness.

Posts information from fiscal documents.

Prepares and maintains files of fiscal transactions, reports and documents.

Prepares, reviews and batches accounting documents.

Verifies/reconciles computer data against accounting records.

Determines activity codes/accounts required for posting payments and/or disposition.

Evaluates, with Water Conservation’s assistance, customers’ homes or businesses in the search for possible leaks and in ensuring their building is complying with required water conservation methods.

Works with the Transmission and Distribution section to evaluate, test and replace water meters.

Assists customers with possible resolutions to their problems, recommends solutions or directs customers to the appropriate city staff for assistance. Assists customers and the City of Santa Fe with the appeals process.

Works with the Meter Reading section to reread meters, paying particular attention to High/Low reports.

Works with IT & T, water, refuse and sewer staff to ensure that account, customer and address information is reviewed and accurately maintained.

Recommends changes in utility billing’s policies and procedures

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Education and Experience:
High School or equivalent; and

Four (4) years of responsible experience providing knowledge of bookkeeping, accounting or related fiscal area; or

Education may substitute for experience on a year for year basis.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
Working knowledge of accounting principles and practices including keeping of financial accounts and records of basic mathematics, of record keeping, report writing, computer operations and applicable software, and office procedures. Some Knowledge of the principles and methods of meter reading such as knowledge of meter size, dials, and ability to convert meter reading data to calculated average consumptions, types of service to commercial and residential account; city ordinances, rules and regulations related to utility billing service, fees and schedules; effective communication and interpersonal skills; JD Edwards accounting software; IBM AS/400.

Skill in interpersonal communication skills and telephone etiquette; public relations; establishing and maintaining effective working relationships with local officials, elected officials, subordinate staff, and city residents; the operation of PC Computer, calculator, fax machine, copy machine, telephone. Skill in mathematical computations.

Ability to maintain confidentiality; operate various types of standard office equipment such as typewriter, 10 key calculator, keyboard, etc.; operate personal computer (windows) in utilizing various programs to produce or compose formal documents, reports and records; communicate effectively verbally and in writing; develop effective working relationships with executive management, elected officials, supervisors, fellow employees, and the public; work under pressure of strict timelines; prepare and deliver written presentations; deal effectively with controversial issues.

Special Qualifications:
None.

Work Environment:
Typical office setting with typical climate controls. Tasks require a variety of physical activities such as walking, standing, stooping, sitting, reaching, not generally involving muscular strain. Job functions normally require talking, hearing and seeing. Common eye, hand, finger dexterity required for most essential functions. Mental application utilizes memory for details, verbal instructions, emotional stability, discriminating thinking and creative problem solving. Periodic travel may be a requirement of the position.