Westlands Water District

Fresno, CA

Financial Analyst

Bargaining Unit: Non-Represented
Salary Code: 24
Fair Labor Standards Act Designation: Exempt
Revision Date: November 4, 2024

GENERAL DESCRIPTION:

Under general supervision of the Supervisor of Customer Accounting, performs complex professional accounting related to the financial and accounting work of the District, including financial analysis, forecasting and planning, systems review and development, and the creation and implementation of new processes. Responsibilities also include forecasting cost projections, conducting trends analysis, and researching complex economic, accounting, auditing, and related studies necessary to the development and maintenance of the District’s projects and activities. Knowledge of District or other local public agency activities is desirable. The ability to communicate effectively is required. The Financial Analyst is classified as a single position.

EXAMPLES OF WORK PERFORMED:

The information below is meant to serve as examples of the job duties and responsibilities for this classification. This list is neither inclusive nor exclusive, but indicative of several types of duties performed.

  1. Reviews, analyzes and evaluates complex financial or economic information.
  2. Prepares financial analyses that conform to generally accepted accounting principles.
  3. Prepares financial statistical reports, cost study reports, surveys, and revenue analysis, Ability-to-Pay Studies, and other reports.
  4. Advises and confers with District staff, federal government representatives and representatives of other agencies on financial audit and accounting matters.
  5. Develops and analyzes the District’s long-range financial forecasts, conducts comparative trends analysis, including projections of revenues and expenses related to water sales and purchases.
  6. Monitors the accuracy of Bureau of Reclamation budgeting, rate-setting, and cost allocation activities.
  7. Prepares, reviews, analyzes, and recommends District cost allocation methods for various activities, including operations and maintenance, power rates, and capital financing/acquisitions.
  8. Plans, organizes and participates in financial and compliance audit assignments to ensure compliance and reliability of financial records.
  9. Reviews and applies current legislation and other authoritative guidelines and procedures as appropriate in performing various auditing, accounting and fiscal activities.
  10. Leads the development and implementation of innovative processes to enhance operational efficiency and streamline workflows.
  11. Monitors and evaluates process performance, making necessary adjustments to achieve desired outcomes and improve productivity.
  12. Performs other duties as assigned.

CLASSIFICATION REQUIREMENTS:

Education and Experience

Any combination of equivalent education and experience that has led to the acquisition of the knowledge required by the position. A typical way of acquiring knowledge would be:

A bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, Economics, Business Administration, or a related field, and two (2) years of professional accounting, auditing, or financial experience; or any combination thereof.

Knowledge of:

  • Statistical research and quantitative analysis techniques.
  • Data processing systems and their application to fiscal and budgetary operations.
  • Mathematical concepts related to forecasting and budgeting.
  • Advanced financial and accounting principles, practices, and methods.
  • Cost accounting principles and practices.
  • Governmental accounting principles and practices.
  • Principles and practices in debt management.
  • Principles of budgeting, forecasting, and financial planning.
  • Moderate to advanced skills in Microsoft Excel.

Skills/Abilities to:

  • Analyze data effectively and prepare complex accounting, financial, and statistical reports. Proficient in financial analysis with a strong understanding of GAAP, complemented by skills in performing trend analyses to inform decision making.
  • Determine accounting/financial issues and recommend corrective action.
  • Prepare clear, concise reports, and procedures with technical accuracy using correct grammar, punctuation, and spelling.
  • Communicate orally and in writing to convey financial information clearly and accurately.
  • Effectively manage multiple work assignments, set priorities, and meet established deadlines.
  • Independently plan and accomplish work assignments.
  • Display a high degree of initiative, integrity, accountability, creativity, and good judgement.
  • Understand relevant regulations, with the ability to read, interpret, and apply laws and contractual agreements, while ensuring compliance with fiscal legislation.

WORKING CONDITIONS

  • Moderate lifting of supplies and materials from time to time up to 30 pounds.
  • Possess physical characteristics to perform the critical and important duties of the job.
  • May work hours other than normal work schedule.
  • Travel occasionally by airplane or automobile.

STANDARD REQUIREMENTS

  • Possess a valid California Class C Driver’s license with a driving record acceptable to the District’s automobile insurance provider.