Principal Accountant

We are looking for an experienced Principal Accountant to support complex accounting operations in California. This Long-term Contract position is ideal for a finance specialist who can manage core ledger activities, maintain accurate financial records, and contribute strong analytical insight within a regulated environment. The successful candidate will bring sound knowledge of governmental accounting practices, strong command of month-end processes, and the ability to communicate financial information clearly to internal stakeholders.

Responsibilities:
• Oversee month-end close activities by preparing and reviewing journal entries, validating balances, and ensuring timely completion of financial reporting tasks.
• Maintain the general ledger with a high degree of accuracy, resolving discrepancies and supporting the integrity of accounting records.
• Perform account reconciliations on a recurring basis, investigate variances, and document corrective actions to keep financial data current and reliable.
• Reconcile bank activity across multiple accounts, confirm transactions, and address outstanding items in coordination with relevant parties.
• Analyze financial information and prepare reports that support budgeting, forecasting, compliance, and management decision-making.
• Apply governmental accounting standards and relevant federal, state, and local regulations to daily accounting work and recordkeeping practices.
• Support audits and financial reviews by organizing documentation, responding to inquiries, and ensuring required records are complete and accessible.
• Use financial systems and office technology to manage accounting data efficiently, improve workflow accuracy, and support ongoing operational needs.

Qualifications:

• At least 3 years of accounting experience, including responsibility for month-end close and general ledger activities.
• Demonstrated knowledge of accounting and auditing standards, with the ability to apply them in a governmental or highly regulated setting.
• Hands-on experience preparing journal entries, completing account reconciliations, and performing bank reconciliations.
• Strong analytical and critical thinking skills with the ability to interpret financial data and make sound recommendations.
• Working knowledge of applicable financial regulations, compliance requirements, and records retention practices.
• Proficiency with accounting software, automated financial systems, and standard office applications used for financial reporting.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present information clearly and build productive working relationships.

Compensation

$38.79-$44.91 Hourly

About Us

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.

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Robert Half will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest or conviction records in accordance with the Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance for Employers and the California Fair Chance Act. 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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