Job Description

Job Description and Duties

Under the general direction of the Accounting Administrator II and close supervision provided by the Accounting Administrator I (Supervisor), and utilizing knowledge of governmental accounting, auditing, financial reporting, and procedures prescribed by the State Controller’s Office, the Accountant Trainee in the Local Government Policy Unit is responsible for performing less complex analytical duties concerning legislative and accounting policy work that provides guidance to local government agencies. The incumbent, operating at the entry trainee level of this class, with a progression of independence over time, and allowing for opportunities of increasing responsibility, learns and performs the full range of duties and responsibilities outlined below.

Duties Performed:
(Candidates must perform the following functions with or without reasonable accommodations.)

• Assist in planning, organizing, and performing accounting policy work, including updating guidelines, uniform accounting systems, and budget documents prescribed by the SCO. Additional responsibilities include working with SCO’s advisory committees, Commissions, and other working groups regarding accounting, financial reporting and other related issues.

• Review and analyze proposed accounting standards and legislative proposals and prepare written analysis as to the impact on local governments and the SCO. Perform analysis of legislation to determine impact to the Bureau of Local Government Policy and Reporting workload, as well as the SCO processes. Assist in preparing recommendations to establish processes to accomplish the intent of the legislation.

• Assist in planning and facilitating the Controller’s Annual Conference with County Auditors. Represent the SCO at various work group meetings with local government officials and staff using diplomacy and appropriate communication techniques.

• Under supervision, consult with staff from local, state, or federal agencies, CPA firms, or interested parties; address relevant technical issues related to financial accounting and reporting requirements. Assist with special projects assigned to the section.

You will find additional information about the job in the .

Working Conditions

Travel to local California County's is required up to three weeks in a calendar year to participate and present to local government accounting agencies. 

This position is located at The Park, a quaint and historical campus environment two blocks from McKinley Park, in the heart of residential East Sacramento. Easily accessible from US 50 and I-80, The Park offers free parking, quick walks to local restaurant favorites, and countless lunchtime strolling opportunities through the quiet East Sacramento neighborhood. 

This position is eligible for hybrid telework under California Government Code Section 14200 for eligible applicants residing in California. All telework schedules are subject to change and may be reevaluated at any time. Specific telework arrangements may be discussed in more detail with the respective hiring manager. Telework does not change the terms and conditions of employment, the essential functions of job duties, or required compliance with the State Controller's Office policies. 

In July 2025, the State of California implemented the Personal Leave Program (PLP) 2025. This program temporarily reduces employees’ monthly base pay in exchange for paid leave credits. This position is subject to PLP 2025 and will have a monthly base pay reduction of 3% in exchange for 5 hours of leave credits through June 2027. The salary ranges shown on this job posting do not reflect the salary reduction.

Special Requirements

A resume is required. 

A copy of your degree, transcripts, or degree evaluation is required.

Take the required examination here: Accountant Trainee Examination

Desirable Qualifications

In addition to evaluating each candidate's relative ability, as demonstrated by quality and breadth of experience, the following factors will provide the basis for competitively evaluating each candidate:

Knowledge of:

• Accounting principles and procedures; governmental accounting and budgeting.
• Excellent communication techniques.
• Project planning.
• Organization techniques.
• Techniques to develop and maintain excellent customer service.
• The State legislative process.
• Presentation techniques.
• Committee facilitation.

Ability to:

• Analyze accounting policies and procedures, research and apply current industry standards, and provide appropriate guidance to local government officials.
• Analyze legislation for impact, draw sound conclusions and make appropriate recommendations to management and working groups.
• Communicate effectively and with diplomacy with local government officials, on committees and working groups.
• Accurately assess situations with political sensiti vity and respond appropriately in representing the State Controller’s Office.
• Gain and maintain the confidence and cooperation of others.
• Prepare clear, complete and concise reports.
• Establish priorities and complete multiple assignments to meet deadlines.
• Exercise initiative and independence of action.
• Collaborate successfully with team members on team assignments.

Benefits

Benefit information can be found on the CalHR website and the CalPERS website.

Required Application Package Documents

The following items are required to be submitted with your application. Applicants who do not submit the required items timely may not be considered for this job:

• Current version of the State Examination/Employment Application STD Form 678 (when not applying electronically), or the Electronic State Employment Application through your Applicant Account at All Experience and Education relating to the Minimum Qualifications listed on the Classification Specification should be included to demonstrate how you meet the Minimum Qualifications for the position.
• Resume is required and must be included.
• Degree and/or School Transcripts

Job Tags

Permanent employment, Full time, Traineeship, Work at office, Local area, Remote work

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