Finance Manager
Apply NowCompany: City of Dana Point, CA
Location: Dana Point, CA 92629
Description:
Salary : $115,560.00 - $163,956.00 Annually
Location : 33282 Golden Lantern Suite #203 Dana Point, CA 92629
Job Type: Full-Time
Job Number: 202500005
Department: Administrative Services
Opening Date: 02/28/2025
ABOUT THE POSITION
The City of Dana Point is seeking a talented, highly motivated, and customer-oriented individual to join the Administrative Services Department.
The ideal candidate will possess strong knowledge of municipal finance and governmental accounting, be highly organized, and demonstrate excellent judgment and management skills. The successful candidate will have a proven track record as a team player, consistently fostering a positive work environment through collaboration, creative problem-solving, and reliable follow-through.
Salary Range Update Effective 3/4/2025 (pending City Council approval)
$10,242 - $14,531 per month
$122,904 - $174,372 per year
This is a Continuous Recruitment that is subject to close once a sufficient number of qualified applications are received.
Under administrative direction, direct, manage, supervise, and coordinate the activities and operations of the Finance Division within the Administrative Services Department; assist in developing and implementing financial planning; evaluate, develop, and implement accounting systems and procedures; coordinate assigned activities with other divisions, departments, and outside agencies; provide highly responsible and complex administrative support to the Director of Administrative Services; and perform other duties as assigned.
CLASS CHARACTERISTICS:
This is a single position class responsible for overseeing the day-to-day operations of the City's finance and accounting program. The incumbent is involved in the day-to-day management of the City's financial management functions. General direction is provided by the Department Director. Incumbent is expected to work with considerable independence and supervises professional, technical, and clerical positions.
This position is at-will and exempt under FLSA standards.
EXAMPLES OF ESSENTIAL DUTIES
Essential job functions may include, but are not limited to, the following: (Management reserves the right to add, modify, change or rescind the work assignments of different positions and to make reasonable accommodations so that qualified employees can perform the essential functions of the job.)
Plans, organizes, and manages the activities of complex accounting functions; oversees the work of staff and performs the more complex professional accounting duties in the areas of general accounting, debt management, treasury, fixed assets, grant administration, payroll, budget, and financial information systems administration. Prepares the year-end close of City books; coordinates and oversees various audits and provides information to outside auditors; gives expert assistance to auditors for questions, data gathering, and compiling reports. Assists with fixed assets accounting procedures, contract procedures, miscellaneous holding accounts and purchasing requirements consistent with public contract code. Assists in coordinating and compiling the biennial and mid-cycle operating and capital budgets for the City including salary and benefits projections, account and expenditure projections, and preparing the initial draft of the budget document; calculates cost distribution, assists with financial forecasting and planning when necessary; tracks the adopted budget and prepares periodic budget reviews for submission to City departments, City management and the City Council. Participates in the development and implementation of goals, objectives, policies, and priorities for assigned programs; recommend and administer policies and procedures. Plan, direct, coordinate, and review the work plan for finance staff; assign work activities, projects, and programs; review and evaluate work products, methods, and procedures; meet with staff to identify and resolve problems. Participate in the selection of assigned personnel; provide or coordinate staff training; work with employees to correct deficiencies; implement discipline and termination procedures. Review and recommend improvements to accounting, budgeting, and reporting procedures; implement new procedures; supervise and participate in the preparation of various financial statements and reports. Analyze the financial information needs of City departments and develop financial systems to fulfill those needs; evaluate the effectiveness of current systems and procedures. Develop financial statement formats in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles and legal requirements. Coordinate the preparation of external audit materials and external financial reporting; preparation of Comprehensive Annual Financial Report, capital asset financing and annual State Controller results; review financial statements with management personnel for their information and clarification. Direct the preparation of summary budget schedules and fund balance projections. Serve as the liaison for the Finance Division with other divisions, departments, and outside agencies; negotiate and resolve sensitive and controversial issues. Serve as staff on a variety of boards, commissions, and committees; prepare and present staff reports and other necessary correspondence. Provide responsible staff assistance to the Director of Administrative Services; conduct a variety of organizational studies, investigations, and operational studies; recommend modifications to finance and accounting programs, policies, and procedures as appropriate. Attend and participate in professional group meetings; maintain awareness of new trends and developments in finance and accounting; incorporate new developments as appropriate. Serve as acting Department Director in his/her absence as needed. Perform other related duties as assigned.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
Knowledge of:
Operational characteristics, services, and activities of a municipal accounting program.
Modern and complex principles and practices of accounting program development and administration.
Principles, standards, and practices of governmental accounting, cost accounting, fixed asset accounting, budgetary accounting, auditing, accounts receivable, accounts payable, and payroll.
Laws regulating public finance.
Budget preparation, program analyses, and revenue forecasting.
Practices and techniques of automated and manual financial and accounting document processing and record keeping.
Principles of personnel management including supervision, training and performance evaluation. Safe work principles and practices.
Office procedures, methods, and equipment including computers and applicable software applications such as word processing, spreadsheets, and databases.
Ability to:
Oversee and participate in the management of a comprehensive finance and accounting program.
Analyze, interpret, and explain department policies and procedures.
Develop, revise, and install accounting systems and procedures.
Participate in the development and administration of division goals, objectives and procedures.
Prepare Comprehensive Annual Financial Report, varied financial statements, reports and analyses.
Select, supervise, train, and evaluate staff.
Prepare clear and concise administrative and financial reports.
Analyze and interpret complex financial and accounting records.
Prepare and administer budgets.
Analyze problems, identify alternative solutions, project consequences of proposed actions and implement recommendations in support of goals.
Operate office equipment including computers and supporting word processing, spreadsheet, and database applications.
Understand and carry out oral and written instructions.
Communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing.
Establish and maintain cooperative working relationships with those contacted in the course of work.
EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE: The following combination of education and experience is most typically likely to provide the requisite knowledge, skills and abilities:
Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university with a major in accounting, business or public administration, finance administration or a closely related field.
Five years of increasingly responsible experience in accounting, financial management, budgeting or auditing work, preferably with a government agency. Considerable experience in computerized municipal fund accounting systems.
SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS: The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Position requires the ability to perform light to moderate lifting and carrying of items such as computer hardware; sitting for prolonged periods of time; frequent walking and occasional standing and/or bending. Continuous hand use and finger dexterity needed to use computer keyboard and operate standard office equipment; and occasional pushing and pulling. This position also requires the ability to have near vision for reading correspondence, reports, contracts and other records. Good hearing is required when communicating on the telephone or in person.
WORK ENVIRONMENT: The work environment described herein is representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential function of this job. Primarily office environment with controlled temperature conditions and exposure to environmental factors and hazardous physical substances are minimal and pose little to no risk of injury.
Note: All employees of the City of Dana Point are designated by both State law and City ordinance to be "Disaster Service Workers." In the event of a declared emergency or an undeclared emergency or natural disaster that threatens the life, health and/or safety of the public, employees may be assigned to assist rescue and relief workers. Such assignments may be in locations, during hours and performing work significantly different from the employees' normal work assignments and may continue through the recovery phase of the emergency.
The City of Dana Point prides itself on hiring qualified individuals who enjoy working in a challenging, yet pleasant environment. We hope you consider joining the Dana Point Team!
COMPREHENSIVE ANNUAL LEAVE (CAL) - Based upon years of service, employees accrue a specified number of hours per year to use for personal leave, sick leave, and/or vacation leave. The annual CAL accrual schedule currently is as follows: Years 1-3: 120 CAL hours, Years 4-6: 160 CAL hours, Years 7-9: 200 CAL hours, Years 10+: 240 CAL hours.
PAID HOLIDAYS - Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, President's Day, Friday before Easter, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Veteran's Day, Thanksgiving Day, day after Thanksgiving, and Holiday Closure, Christmas Eve through New Year's Day.
ALTERNATIVE WORK SCHEDULES - Employee may have the option of working a 5/40 or alternatively a 9/80 work schedule with supervisor and department head approval.
RETIREMENT - The City is a member of the California Public Employees Retirement System (CALPERS). The City's contract provides a 2%@55 formula for Classic Members and 2%@62 for New Members. Employees are responsible for paying the full employee contribution toward the retirement system, which is currently 7%, plus an additional 2.00% for Classic Members; and for New Members, 7.75%.
HEALTH BENEFITS - The City has a cafeteria-style benefit program. This position is currently provided a $1,848 monthly benefit allowance to use toward monthly insurance premiums. The options include medical, dental, vision, life and disability insurance. A 457 deferred compensation plan, and a Section 125/129 flexible spending account program is also available. A small gym is located onsite at City Hall and is available for use by employees.
EDUCATION REIMBURSEMENT - The City may reimburse eligible employees for eligible education expenses, up to the cost of FT, in-state course work at a California State University
To learn more details, visit our benefits page
01
Please summarize why you are interested in serving as the Finance Manager for the City of Dana Point and describe what you believe are the most important qualifications you possess.
02
Please describe your experience with local government finance operations. Include experience with financial management, implementation of new GASB statements, and any role you have played in the development and administration of operational budgets.
03
Please describe the scope of your professional experience and role with audits and the preparation of Annual Comprehensive Financial Reports.
04
Describe your leadership style and provide an example of how you have successfully led a team to achieve a specific goal.
Required Question
Location : 33282 Golden Lantern Suite #203 Dana Point, CA 92629
Job Type: Full-Time
Job Number: 202500005
Department: Administrative Services
Opening Date: 02/28/2025
ABOUT THE POSITION
The City of Dana Point is seeking a talented, highly motivated, and customer-oriented individual to join the Administrative Services Department.
The ideal candidate will possess strong knowledge of municipal finance and governmental accounting, be highly organized, and demonstrate excellent judgment and management skills. The successful candidate will have a proven track record as a team player, consistently fostering a positive work environment through collaboration, creative problem-solving, and reliable follow-through.
Salary Range Update Effective 3/4/2025 (pending City Council approval)
$10,242 - $14,531 per month
$122,904 - $174,372 per year
This is a Continuous Recruitment that is subject to close once a sufficient number of qualified applications are received.
Under administrative direction, direct, manage, supervise, and coordinate the activities and operations of the Finance Division within the Administrative Services Department; assist in developing and implementing financial planning; evaluate, develop, and implement accounting systems and procedures; coordinate assigned activities with other divisions, departments, and outside agencies; provide highly responsible and complex administrative support to the Director of Administrative Services; and perform other duties as assigned.
CLASS CHARACTERISTICS:
This is a single position class responsible for overseeing the day-to-day operations of the City's finance and accounting program. The incumbent is involved in the day-to-day management of the City's financial management functions. General direction is provided by the Department Director. Incumbent is expected to work with considerable independence and supervises professional, technical, and clerical positions.
This position is at-will and exempt under FLSA standards.
EXAMPLES OF ESSENTIAL DUTIES
Essential job functions may include, but are not limited to, the following: (Management reserves the right to add, modify, change or rescind the work assignments of different positions and to make reasonable accommodations so that qualified employees can perform the essential functions of the job.)
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
Knowledge of:
Operational characteristics, services, and activities of a municipal accounting program.
Modern and complex principles and practices of accounting program development and administration.
Principles, standards, and practices of governmental accounting, cost accounting, fixed asset accounting, budgetary accounting, auditing, accounts receivable, accounts payable, and payroll.
Laws regulating public finance.
Budget preparation, program analyses, and revenue forecasting.
Practices and techniques of automated and manual financial and accounting document processing and record keeping.
Principles of personnel management including supervision, training and performance evaluation. Safe work principles and practices.
Office procedures, methods, and equipment including computers and applicable software applications such as word processing, spreadsheets, and databases.
Ability to:
Oversee and participate in the management of a comprehensive finance and accounting program.
Analyze, interpret, and explain department policies and procedures.
Develop, revise, and install accounting systems and procedures.
Participate in the development and administration of division goals, objectives and procedures.
Prepare Comprehensive Annual Financial Report, varied financial statements, reports and analyses.
Select, supervise, train, and evaluate staff.
Prepare clear and concise administrative and financial reports.
Analyze and interpret complex financial and accounting records.
Prepare and administer budgets.
Analyze problems, identify alternative solutions, project consequences of proposed actions and implement recommendations in support of goals.
Operate office equipment including computers and supporting word processing, spreadsheet, and database applications.
Understand and carry out oral and written instructions.
Communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing.
Establish and maintain cooperative working relationships with those contacted in the course of work.
EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE: The following combination of education and experience is most typically likely to provide the requisite knowledge, skills and abilities:
Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university with a major in accounting, business or public administration, finance administration or a closely related field.
Five years of increasingly responsible experience in accounting, financial management, budgeting or auditing work, preferably with a government agency. Considerable experience in computerized municipal fund accounting systems.
SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS: The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Position requires the ability to perform light to moderate lifting and carrying of items such as computer hardware; sitting for prolonged periods of time; frequent walking and occasional standing and/or bending. Continuous hand use and finger dexterity needed to use computer keyboard and operate standard office equipment; and occasional pushing and pulling. This position also requires the ability to have near vision for reading correspondence, reports, contracts and other records. Good hearing is required when communicating on the telephone or in person.
WORK ENVIRONMENT: The work environment described herein is representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential function of this job. Primarily office environment with controlled temperature conditions and exposure to environmental factors and hazardous physical substances are minimal and pose little to no risk of injury.
Note: All employees of the City of Dana Point are designated by both State law and City ordinance to be "Disaster Service Workers." In the event of a declared emergency or an undeclared emergency or natural disaster that threatens the life, health and/or safety of the public, employees may be assigned to assist rescue and relief workers. Such assignments may be in locations, during hours and performing work significantly different from the employees' normal work assignments and may continue through the recovery phase of the emergency.
The City of Dana Point prides itself on hiring qualified individuals who enjoy working in a challenging, yet pleasant environment. We hope you consider joining the Dana Point Team!
COMPREHENSIVE ANNUAL LEAVE (CAL) - Based upon years of service, employees accrue a specified number of hours per year to use for personal leave, sick leave, and/or vacation leave. The annual CAL accrual schedule currently is as follows: Years 1-3: 120 CAL hours, Years 4-6: 160 CAL hours, Years 7-9: 200 CAL hours, Years 10+: 240 CAL hours.
PAID HOLIDAYS - Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, President's Day, Friday before Easter, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Veteran's Day, Thanksgiving Day, day after Thanksgiving, and Holiday Closure, Christmas Eve through New Year's Day.
ALTERNATIVE WORK SCHEDULES - Employee may have the option of working a 5/40 or alternatively a 9/80 work schedule with supervisor and department head approval.
RETIREMENT - The City is a member of the California Public Employees Retirement System (CALPERS). The City's contract provides a 2%@55 formula for Classic Members and 2%@62 for New Members. Employees are responsible for paying the full employee contribution toward the retirement system, which is currently 7%, plus an additional 2.00% for Classic Members; and for New Members, 7.75%.
HEALTH BENEFITS - The City has a cafeteria-style benefit program. This position is currently provided a $1,848 monthly benefit allowance to use toward monthly insurance premiums. The options include medical, dental, vision, life and disability insurance. A 457 deferred compensation plan, and a Section 125/129 flexible spending account program is also available. A small gym is located onsite at City Hall and is available for use by employees.
EDUCATION REIMBURSEMENT - The City may reimburse eligible employees for eligible education expenses, up to the cost of FT, in-state course work at a California State University
To learn more details, visit our benefits page
01
Please summarize why you are interested in serving as the Finance Manager for the City of Dana Point and describe what you believe are the most important qualifications you possess.
02
Please describe your experience with local government finance operations. Include experience with financial management, implementation of new GASB statements, and any role you have played in the development and administration of operational budgets.
03
Please describe the scope of your professional experience and role with audits and the preparation of Annual Comprehensive Financial Reports.
04
Describe your leadership style and provide an example of how you have successfully led a team to achieve a specific goal.
Required Question