NORTHEAST COUNCIL OF GOVERNMENTS POSITION TITLE: Accountant The Northeast Council of Governments (NECOG) is an association of Municipal and County Governments serving a 12-County region in Northeast South Dakota. NECOG staff assist member counties and communities in completing technical projects, which will enhance the quality of life in the region. NECOG is seeking a team member to fulfill the requirements of the NECOG Accountant. A postsecondary degree or diploma in accounting, bookkeeping, or related areas, is desired. Excellent fringe benefit package including 100% employee paid health, dental and life insurance, vacation, sick leave, and State Retirement Plan. Starting wage of $17 to $22 per hour dependent upon experience and qualifications. This position is responsible for the internal management practices of the Council office and shall exercise discretion and independent judgment while being responsible for the fiscal control which includes maintaining all bookkeeping records, preparing reports, monitoring grant requirements and assuring that fiscal requirements of the Council are being met. MAJOR DUTIES/ACTIVITIES OF POSITION:  Perform actual record keeping of business transactions and accurate recording thereof.  Prepare, examine, and analyze reports pertaining to the financial status of the agency.  Provide the Executive Director, Executive Board and Council with up-to-date financial information  Prepare all necessary financial reports for official agencies, including but not limited to, EDA financial reports, unemployment records and federal tax reports.  Prepare and recommend yearly agency budget and indirect cost to make sure they are complete, accurate, and conform to rules and regulations.  Make recommendations to management regarding improving the operations and financial position of the company.  Be able to answer questions regarding budgets for staff, management, Executive Board and Council  Aide overall effective management of the agency by assisting agency operation in areas such as personnel, budget preparation and control, records control, agency duties, and management reports.  Responsible for updating and maintaining accounting policies in order to improve efficiency, workflow, simplifying procedures, and implementing cost reductions, as needed.  Calculate payroll, prepare paychecks, and calculate and distribute employee leave balances in a timely manner.  Audit invoices/bills, prepare vouchers, prepare checks, complete money transfers and make payment in a timely manner.  Audit agency contracts for the preparation and sending of invoices and follow up on accounts receivable so as to collect agency revenue in a timely manner.  This position will also be involved in community and economic development activities of the Council.  Other duties as assigned. SKILLS:  Post-secondary degree or diploma in accounting, bookkeeping, or related areas, is desired.  Must be able to analyze, compare and interpret facts and figures to make sound judgments.       Maintain a high level of professionalism, initiative, and motivation; a confident self-starter who can multi-task and works well under deadlines with minimal supervision. Possess skills in interpreting research, statistical data, and financial data. Strong computer skills; spreadsheet experience necessary. Continued updating of skills and knowledge. Willingness to work with public agencies and public officials. Possess valid driver’s license. The position may require travel around the NECOG region. Please submit resume with cover letter relating skills and experience as they relate to the position, along with three professional references, to: Northeast Council of Governments PO Box 1985 Aberdeen, SD 57402-1985 (605) 626-2595 Or e-mail requested information to [email protected]