About the Role

Join our Team! The City is seeking an Accountant to support our Finance Department. In this role, you'll perform professional accounting work that helps ensure the accuracy, integrity, and transparency of the City's financial operations.

You'll work across a variety of accounting functions---including payroll, general ledger, financial reporting, and budgeting---while supporting compliance with regulations and internal controls. This position is ideal for someone who enjoys working with numbers, solving complex problems, and contributing to the financial health of an organization.

About the Finance Department

The Finance Department manages most of the City's financial activities, including budgeting, accounting (including payroll), auditing and financial reporting, financial forecasting, purchasing, cash management and investing, risk management, retirement benefits administration and more. The department strives to provide information for decision-making, procure the best value for the City and ensure continued funding for City services while complying with legal and technical standards.

What You'll Do

Perform professional accounting work across payroll, general ledger, budgeting, and financial reporting

Prepare and review journal entries, reconciliations, and financial reports

Compile and analyze financial data, including year-end reporting and audits

Process and verify payroll while ensuring compliance with tax laws and regulations

Prepare financial statements, cash reports, and supporting documentation

Assist with audits, grants, and budget preparation activities

Develop and maintain spreadsheets, reports, and data analyses

Monitor compliance with accounting standards, policies, and regulations

Support internal controls and Finance Department procedures

Respond to financial inquiries from staff and the public

Maintain accurate records and prepare written reports and correspondence

Your work helps ensure responsible stewardship of public funds and supports informed decision-making across the organization.

Minimum Qualifications

Bachelor's degree in accounting, finance, or a related field

Two years of professional accounting and/or payroll experience

OR an equivalent combination of education and experience

Knowledge of accounting principles (GAAP) and governmental accounting practices

Experience with financial reporting, reconciliations, and data analysis

Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and financial systems

Strong attention to detail and problem-solving skills

Ability to handle confidential information with discretion

Effective communication and interpersonal skills

Please view the full job description and requirements for more details.

Pay and Benefits**

Hourly pay range: $28.69 -- $38.45, depending on qualifications experience

The City of Kentwood offers a competitive compensation package and excellent benefits, including:

10% employer retirement contribution

11 paid holidays, three personal days, and 12 sick days annually

Up to four weeks of vacation annually

Fully paid parental leave (4--6 weeks depending on eligibility)

Medical insurance with 2% employee premium share

Free dental and vision insurance

Health Savings Account with employer contributions of $850--$1,700 annually

Employer-paid life insurance and long-term disa

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Accountant