What's Happening?
Clearwater Utilities is actively seeking an Accounting Services Coordinator to lead and supervise technical, financial, and operational support within its Financial Service Division. This role, located at 14 S Ft Harrison Ave, Clearwater FL, is primarily
responsible for the Procure to Pay (accounts payables) and customer payment/cashiering functions. The coordinator will oversee the approval of payables invoices within a complex computer automated record-keeping system and manage cashiering operations for the walk-in customer payment center. The position involves direct leadership and supervision of a team of three accounting staff, requiring a high degree of accuracy, attention to detail, compliance, independent judgment, and positive leadership. The schedule is Monday through Friday, 7:45 am to 4:45 pm, with some flexibility and potential for remote work after an introductory period.
Why It's Important?
This position is critical for maintaining the financial integrity and operational efficiency of Clearwater Utilities, a vital public service provider. The Accounting Services Coordinator ensures accurate and timely processing of accounts payables and customer payments, which directly impacts the utility's cash flow and its ability to manage expenses and revenue. Effective leadership in this role is essential for the smooth functioning of both front-office customer-facing services and back-office financial operations. The emphasis on accuracy, compliance, and internal controls helps prevent financial discrepancies and fraud, safeguarding public funds. Furthermore, the role's supervisory aspect is crucial for developing a competent and efficient accounting team, ensuring continuity and high-quality service delivery to the community.
What's Next?
Clearwater Utilities is looking for candidates with at least six years of progressively responsible professional accounting experience, including one year of supervisory training, or an equivalent combination of education and experience. Highly desirable qualifications include accounts payable processing experience, cash handling and reconciliation experience, and familiarity with SAP, Oracle, or Workday software. Successful applicants will be expected to lead their team, facilitate timely processing of invoices, oversee cashiering operations, and review expense reports. The role also involves compiling monthly and quarterly reports and maintaining standard operating procedures, indicating a continuous focus on operational excellence and accountability within the Utilities department.
Beyond the Headlines
The detailed requirements for the Accounting Services Coordinator position at Clearwater Utilities highlight the increasing demand for specialized financial expertise within public sector organizations. Beyond basic accounting, the role emphasizes leadership, technological proficiency (with complex automated systems), and strong customer service skills, reflecting the multifaceted nature of modern financial management. This trend suggests that public utilities are adopting more sophisticated financial practices to enhance transparency, efficiency, and accountability to taxpayers and customers. The blend of technical accounting skills with leadership and customer interaction also points to a broader professional development path for accountants in the public sector, where managing both financial data and human capital is paramount for effective governance and service delivery.
