Temporary Utility Plant Accountant

Overview

Embedded within a well-established California-based utility serving over one million residents, this temporary accounting position offers a deep dive into utility plant financial management. The role centers on capital project accounting and fixed asset oversight, providing exposure to complex general ledger reconciliations and regulatory reporting under GAAP standards. Ideal for a senior accountant with utility or infrastructure experience seeking hands-on involvement in month-end close processes and compliance filings.

Title: Temporary Utility Plant Accountant
Industry: Water Utility Services
Location: San Gabriel Valley, Los Angeles

Responsibilities

• Establish and manage work orders for capital projects, including setting annual budgets and executing budget adjustments as needed.
• Collaborate with engineering teams to track capital project progress, ensuring timely closure and accurate recording in utility plant accounts.
• Conduct monthly and quarterly reconciliations and analyses of key general ledger accounts such as advances for construction and unclaimed refunds.
• Maintain comprehensive fixed asset accounting, covering asset setup, transfers, depreciation, and sub-ledger to general ledger reconciliations.
• Review and reconcile Main Extension Advance Contracts, ensuring contract sub-ledgers align with general ledger balances.
• Support quarterly and annual financial reporting requirements, including preparation for SEC filings and regulatory submissions like FERC and CPUC reports.
• Process contract refunds and special billing related to water rights, while assisting cross-functional teams with data requests and audit inquiries.

Qualifications

• Must-Have:
  • Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, Business, or a related field.
  • Minimum five years of progressively responsible accounting experience, preferably within the water or utility sector.
  • Proficiency in advanced Excel functions and general ledger account analysis.
  • Strong communication skills, both written and verbal, with the ability to collaborate effectively across departments.
  • Experience with fixed asset accounting, including depreciation and reconciliations.
• Nice-to-Have:
  • Familiarity with JD Edwards or other major ERP systems.
  • Knowledge of regulatory reporting requirements such as SEC filings, FERC, and CPUC compliance.
  • Experience with Access databases or similar tools for data management.