Principal Accountant (Limited-Term)

Description

The Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG) is seeking to hire a detail-oriented Principal Accountant (Limited-Term) to join the Accounting Department in our Finance Division. This position plays a key role in managing advanced accounting operations, ensuring compliance with applicable financial standards and regulatory requirements, and supporting the integrity and accuracy of the organization’s financial reporting and grant compliance. If you possess advanced analytical skills, a commitment to accuracy and compliance, and demonstrated supervisory experience, this may be the position for you!

The Accounting Department supports all agency programs through functions such as accounts payable, accounts receivable, payroll, and financial reporting. The Accounting Department is responsible for accurately documenting various types of financial transactions, GASB implementations, and providing outstanding customer service.

WHO WE ARE

As a mission-driven organization, SCAG is committed to attracting and retaining talent who embody SCAG’s values. SCAG's workforce is passionate and committed to innovation that improves the quality of life for all Southern Californians. When you join SCAG, you can expect a culture where collaboration and teamwork is fostered.

As part of our Work@SCAG policy, employees are eligible for two work models: in-office and hybrid. Eligibility for these models will depend on the department, position, responsibilities, and duties, as determined by management. All work models require employees to be based within the SCAG region. This position is expected to follow the hybrid model and be in the office 2 days per week.

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

Be Open: Be accessible, candid, collaborative and transparent in the work we do.

Lead by Example: Commit to integrity and equity in working to meet the diverse needs of all people and communities in our region.

Make an Impact: In all endeavors, effect positive and sustained outcomes that make our region thrive.

Be Courageous: Have confidence that taking deliberate, bold and purposeful risks can yield new and valuable benefits.

Cultivate Belonging: Embrace differences, foster equity, champion inclusion, and empower all.

In this role you can expect to

• 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.

What you'll bring to this role

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.

Supplemental Information

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.

Insurance Coverage
Employees may choose from nine HMO and two PPO health plans administered through CalPERS. SCAG contributes the following amounts towards the monthly health premium: $850 for employee only coverage; $1500 for employee plus one dependent; $1800 for employee plus family. Employees may waive SCAG-sponsored health plans by providing evidence of other health coverage each plan year. Upon meeting eligibility requirements, employee is eligible to receive opt out amount of $200 per month, paid as taxable earnings. Premiums for dental and vision are covered 100% by SCAG. Life insurance in the amount of $50,000 is provided by SCAG. Supplemental life insurance is available at a minimal cost to the employee. Short-term and long-term disability insurance plans are provided by SCAG.

Retirement
Employees become members of the Public Employees’ Retirement System (PERS). Effective January 1, 2013, for new members of the California Public Employees’ Retirement System (CalPERS), the retirement formula is calculated at 2% @ 62 with a Three Year Average Formula. In accordance with the Public Employees' Pension Reform Act of 2013 (PEPRA), the new member will have a mandatory contribution of 7% of reportable compensation. Employees who are current members of CalPERS or an agency with CalPERS reciprocity, or who have less than a six-month break in service between employment with SCAG or in a CalPERS (or reciprocal) agency will be enrolled in the 2% @ 55 benefit formula.

Empower deferred compensation plan is available and all non-management positions receive a 50% match, up to $1,500. Employees do not pay Social Security.

Paid Parental Leave
12 weeks of paid parental leave to employees following the birth of an employee’s child or the placement of a child with an employee in connection with adoption or foster care. Employees become eligible for this benefit after 12 months of employment at SCAG.

Holidays
Employees receive 10 designated holidays and 44 hours of Personal Floating Holidays (PFH) per fiscal year, 11 hours for each full quarter worked.

Vacation Accrual
Ten to twenty days per year depending on length of service with SCAG.

0-3 years: 80 hours
4-10 years: 120 hours
11-16 years: 140 hours
17+ years: 160 hours

Sick Leave
Employees accrue sick leave at the rate of one day per month.

Flexible Spending Accounts
Tax-exempt savings plans are offered to pay for eligible expenses associated with healthcare, dependent care, and parking.

Transit Reimbursement Program
SCAG reimburses up to $230 per month for commute to the office via public transit via bus, rail, or train. Employees must commute a minimum of 8 days per month in order to receive reimbursement for monthly passes.

Flexible Time/Modified Work Week/Telework
Employees may work a modified 9-80 work schedule, with every other Friday off. SCAG offers a flexible work schedule to allow employees some flexibility on daily work hours. SCAG has developed a hybrid workforce program called Work@SCAG to provide two work model options (office and hybrid) to choose from, based on their position, within the SCAG Region.

Technology Allowance
Employees in hybrid and remote work models will receive a one-time stipend of $300 to be used for remote office setup. In addition, all employees receive a $140 monthly technology allowance to cover phone usage for business use and to offset utilities costs while working remotely.

Other Benefits
Educational assistance up to $5,250 per year is offered for qualified courses after one year of employment. Professional membership reimbursement up to $300 per year for professional associations.

Probationary Period
All non-management employees are required to successfully complete a probationary period of 2080 hours prior to achieving regular employment status.

Closing Date/Time: 3/27/2026 5:00 PM Pacific

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• Southern California Association of Governments

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