Financial Analyst/Financial Analyst, SR

POSITION TYPE: Open Competitive
DEPARTMENT: Finance
HOURS: Full-time
LOCATION: Hybrid: Hastings, MN/ West St. Paul, MN/ Apple Valley, MN
UNION: None
CLOSE DATE: 4:30 pm on 2/5/2025
ANTICIPATED HIRING RANGE: The position level at which the offers are extended is based on the candidate's ability to meet the minimum qualifications and relevant years of experience.
Financial Analyst : $62,963- $70,834 (Grade 107)
Senior Financial Analyst : $70,518- $79,333 (Grade 108)

Financial Analyst OR Senior Financial Analyst is responsible for a variety of tasks which may include preparing monthly financial data, participating in the preparation of the annual financial statement, grant reporting and coordination, and developing budget proposals. This position serves as a fiscal liaison with other departments throughout the County and assists in the implementation and development of programs to improve existing systems and policies. Performs complex accounting and budgeting activities, involving high level of decision making, under very minimal supervision. Prepares financial information for both internal and external entities.

Who We Are
Dakota County is Minnesota's third largest county and home to more than 400,000 residents. Our motto is "Be More" and we strive every day to achieve excellent public service, with a focus on four values: Service, Integrity, People, and Innovation.

Dakota County aims to create an environment that is welcoming and inclusive of diverse people, backgrounds, and experiences. Our goal is to have a workforce that is reflective of the communities and individuals we serve. We promote an equitable and culturally aware work environment where everyone can be their authentic selves.

Location & Schedule
This is a hybrid position that offers a mix of telework and in-person work at various county buildings. Work is performed Monday through Friday during regular business hours (8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.)

The minimum qualifications listed below are written at the Financial Analyst level. You must meet these minimum requirements in order to continue in the recruitment and selection process.

• Bachelor's Degree in Accounting or in a related field

• Associates Degree AND Two years experience working in business or governmental accounting.

• An equivalent combination of education and experience to total four years.

These examples do not include all possible tasks in this work and do not limit the assignment of related tasks in any position of this classification. Regular attendance according to the position's management approved work schedule is required for all positions. The duties and responsibilities listed below are for the Financial Analyst position.
ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS: Duties 1 - 13 are essential functions.

1. Review and analyze current and proposed departmental budgets.
2. Assist with the preparation of the County's annual financial statement.
3. Development of financial and budget reports from the County's entity-wide financial system (ERP).
4. Analyze departmental fiscal performance to determine deviations from the budget.
5. Meet with departments to discuss fiscal matters and recommend changes where appropriate.
6. Research information regarding specific operations or budgeted programs.
7. Prepare departmental budget and status reports including creating worksheets and graphs.
8. Develop various financial statements and reports as needed for internal management and external reporting purposes.
9. Prepare and process accounting transactions within one or more areas of emphasis including preparation and approval for input data and proofing of output.
10. Develop and maintain accounting systems, including chart of accounts and internal control requirements for designated funds, departments, divisions or programs of the County.
11. Perform other accounting and budget tasks as assigned.
12. Assist in the budget process through coordination with departments and implementation of budget assumptions and themes.
13. Prepare and analyze grant reports and grant audits

• Knowledge of current governmental fund accounting and reporting standards.
• Skill and ability to continuously upgrade usage of Microsoft Office Products.
• Ability to lead meetings with departments and others.
• Ability to prioritize and perform multiple tasks based on deadlines and importance.
• Ability to adapt to changing work situations and requirements.
• Ability to interact well with all personal styles and motivate others.
• Ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with others.