The Department of Water and Sanitation is seeking a diligent and skilled Senior State Accountant to join our team in the Free State. This role focuses on management accounting within the Financial Management branch, demanding expertise in cost and financial management.
This is an opportunity for a finance professional who is eager to take on challenging responsibilities and make a significant impact on the public sector’s contribution to water and sanitation services in the Free State. The Department values dedication, integrity, and transparency, and is keen to onboard an individual who aspires to these principles in their professional conduct.
Senior State Accountant Vacancy Overview
- Reference No: 130524/15
- Branch: Provincial Operations: Free State: Financial Management: Management Accounting
- Salary: R376 413 per annum (Level 8)
- Location: Bloemfontein
- Application Deadline: 13 May 2024
Key Requirements:
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- Educational Qualifications: Possession of a National Diploma or Bachelor’s Degree in Finance, Accounting, or Economics from a recognized institution.
Relevant Fields of Study: The focus should be on courses that offer substantial knowledge of financial management, cost accounting, and economic analysis to ensure a comprehensive understanding of the financial sector. - Experience: Three to five years in cost management and a financial management environment.
- Licenses: A valid driver’s license is preferred for this role
- Educational Qualifications: Possession of a National Diploma or Bachelor’s Degree in Finance, Accounting, or Economics from a recognized institution.
Competencies Required for the Senior State Accountant Position
- Advanced Computer Literacy:
- Proficient in Microsoft Excel and Microsoft Word.
- Ability to use advanced spreadsheet features (e.g., macros, pivot tables) and document formatting.
- Interpersonal Skills:
- Demonstrated ability to effectively communicate and engage with a diverse range of users and stakeholders.
- Capable of resolving conflicts and managing sensitive interactions constructively.
- Analytical and Problem-Solving Skills:
- Strong capacity to analyze financial data and draw insightful conclusions.
- Proficient in employing lateral thinking techniques to solve complex issues in innovative ways.
- Experience in identifying problems, diagnosing causes, and determining practical solutions.
- Independent and Team Work:
- Ability to work effectively in a team environment, collaborating with others to achieve shared goals.
- Capable of operating independently with minimal supervision, demonstrating self-motivation and initiative.
- Accounting Principles:
- Sound knowledge of fundamental and advanced accounting principles and practices.
- Experience with financial reporting, reconciliation, and maintaining accuracy in financial records.
- Budget Management:
- Knowledge of the budgeting process including preparation, analysis, and implementation.
- Familiarity with In-Year monitoring, reporting procedures, and adjusting budgets as necessary.
- Governmental Financial Systems:
- Proficiency in using governmental financial systems such as BAS (Basic Accounting System) and LOGIS (Logistical Information System).
- Understanding of how these systems integrate with overall financial management and reporting.
- Public Financial Management Act (PFMA) and National Treasury Regulations:
- In-depth knowledge of the PFMA and its directives on financial management within the public sector.
- Familiarity with National Treasury regulations, ensuring compliance with national financial policies and standards.
Duties:
- Support in Planning and Budgeting:
- Assist in the development and refinement of planning and budgeting processes within the Department.
- Collaborate with departmental teams to align budgeting efforts with strategic objectives and operational needs.
- Implementation of Budget Policy:
- Ensure the effective implementation of established budget policies.
- Assist in formulating and updating norms and guidelines for budgeting across various departmental functions to enhance financial efficiency and compliance.
- Costing and Financial Advice:
- Provide expert advice on the financial aspects of project costing and other budget-related processes.
- Help departmental heads and project managers in drafting budget proposals and understanding financial implications.
- Management of National Expenditure:
- Responsible for capturing and managing the Estimates of National Expenditure (ENE) on the Basic Accounting System (BAS).
- Handle departmental adjustment estimates and manage processes involving the shifting and rolling over of funds.
- Expenditure Analysis:
- Analyze expenditure trends and deviations from the budget.
- Compile detailed reports on findings and present these to management to aid in decision-making.
- Early Warning Reports:
- Prepare monthly early warning reports that identify budget deviations.
- Highlight potential financial shortfalls and provide projections to assist in proactive financial management.
- Re-allocation of Funds:
- Assist in the re-allocation of budgetary funds as necessary, monitoring the movement of allocated funds post-reprioritization.
- Ensure that adjustments are made in accordance with financial governance standards and departmental needs.
- Funds Availability Confirmation:
- Confirm the availability of funds for the requisition of goods and services as well as for the payment of assets.
- Ensure that all financial commitments are backed by adequately allocated resources to maintain fiscal discipline.
Application Procedure:
- Please forward your application quoting the relevant reference number to Chief Director, Department of Water and Sanitation, Private Bag 528, Bloemfontein, 9301
- Hand deliver at Department of Water and Sanitation, Corner Charlotte Maxeke and East Burger Streets, Bloem-Plaza Building, Second floor.
- For Attention: Ms. Z Gwetyana
- Enquires: Mr. PC Matsau, Tel No: 051 405 9000
Related: Registering on the ESSA Labour Database for Government Jobs
Compliance:
The recruitment process will respect the Employment Equity imperatives as per the Employment Equity Act of 1998 and other relevant legislation.
The Department of Water and Sanitation is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Women and persons with disabilities are encouraged to apply.
In conclusion, the position of Senior State Accountant within the Department of Water and Sanitation offers a unique and rewarding opportunity for an experienced financial professional to make a significant impact in the public sector. This role not only requires a strong foundation in finance and accounting but also demands a proactive and strategic approach to managing departmental finances.
The successful candidate will contribute directly to the financial health and efficiency of water and sanitation services in the Free State, ensuring that resources are utilized effectively and that financial practices support the broader objectives of the department.
Join the Department of Water and Sanitation’s commitment to excellence and accountability in the pursuit of enhancing the quality of water services in South Africa.
