
Staff Accountant
Santa Barbara, CA · HybridContract / TemporarySeen todaySeen in employer's feed today
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Job overview
The Staff Accountant supports a busy Public Works accounting team in California, contributing to financial operations across billing, reconciliations, journal entries, and general ledger activity. The role involves reviewing financial information, maintaining records, and coordinating with internal departments. It is a long-term contract position with onsite onboarding and training; hybrid arrangements may be possible based on business needs.
Skills & qualifications
Skills
Qualifications
Benefits
Full job description
Description We are looking for a Staff Accountant to support a busy Public Works accounting team in California. This long-term contract position offers the opportunity to contribute to essential financial operations in a public sector environment while helping manage a high volume of accounting activity. The role is best suited for someone with strong attention to detail who can work accurately across billing, reconciliations, and journal entry preparation. Candidates who are comfortable using Excel and accounting systems to organize data and keep records current will be well positioned for success.
Responsibilities:
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Manage billing activities and process financial transactions with accuracy and timeliness.
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Assign and track expense codes to ensure costs are recorded in the appropriate accounts and funding categories.
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Create and post journal entries to maintain the integrity of the general ledger.
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Support account reconciliations and assist with monthly closing tasks to keep reporting on schedule.
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Review financial information, investigate variances, and help resolve accounting discrepancies.
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Maintain organized accounting files and supporting documentation in accordance with department standards.
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Use Microsoft Excel to analyze data, prepare reports, and monitor transaction activity.
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Partner with internal departments to gather information, clarify financial details, and support ongoing accounting needs.
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Contribute to special projects and provide assistance during periods of increased workload, including backlog reduction efforts.
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Participate in onsite onboarding and training, with the possibility of hybrid work arrangements based on business needs. Requirements • At least 2 years of accounting experience in a staff accountant or similar role.
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Bachelor’s degree in Accounting or a closely related field is preferred.
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Practical experience preparing journal entries and working with general ledger transactions.
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Proficiency in Microsoft Excel, including functions such as PivotTables, VLOOKUP, and data analysis tools.
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Familiarity with Workday ERP is preferred.
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Knowledge of accounts payable processes and financial record maintenance.
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Strong written and verbal communication skills with the ability to work effectively across teams.
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Excellent accuracy, organization, and attention to detail, with the ability to learn new systems quickly.
Robert Half is the world’s first and largest specialized talent solutions firm that connects highly qualified job seekers to opportunities at great companies. We offer contract, temporary and permanent placement solutions for finance and accounting, technology, marketing and creative, legal, and administrative and customer support roles.
Robert Half works to put you in the best position to succeed. We provide access to top jobs, competitive compensation and benefits, and free online training. Stay on top of every opportunity - whenever you choose - even on the go. Download the Robert Half app (https://www.roberthalf.com/us/en/mobile-app) and get 1-tap apply, notifications of AI-matched jobs, and much more.
All applicants applying for U.S. job openings must be legally authorized to work in the United States. Benefits are available to contract/temporary professionals, including medical, vision, dental, and life and disability insurance. Hired contract/temporary professionals are also eligible to enroll in our company 401(k) plan. Visit roberthalf.gobenefits.net for more information.
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