Principal Accountant

We are looking for an experienced Principal Accountant to support complex accounting operations and financial reporting activities in California. This Long-term Contract opportunity is ideal for someone who can apply strong governmental accounting knowledge, guide financial processes, and help maintain accurate records in a regulated environment. The role requires sound judgment, analytical thinking, and the ability to work effectively with financial systems, compliance standards, and cross-functional stakeholders.

Responsibilities:
• Lead month-end close activities, ensuring timely completion of journal entries, reconciliations, and supporting schedules.
• Maintain the general ledger and review financial transactions for accuracy, completeness, and compliance with applicable accounting standards.
• Prepare and analyze account reconciliations, including bank reconciliations, and resolve discrepancies through thorough research.
• Support the development of financial reports, budget-related documentation, and detailed analyses for management and regulatory needs.
• Interpret and apply governmental accounting principles along with relevant federal, state, and local regulations affecting financial records and procedures.
• Evaluate accounting data and trends to identify issues, support decision-making, and improve financial controls and reporting quality.
• Utilize financial systems and related technology tools to manage accounting operations, maintain records, and strengthen reporting efficiency.
• Coordinate with internal teams and stakeholders to address accounting questions, provide guidance, and maintain productive working relationships.
• Assist with oversight of accounting processes, including prioritizing work, supporting staff performance, and promoting consistent procedural standards.

Qualifications:

• At least 3 years of accounting experience, including responsibility for month-end close and general ledger activities.
• Strong knowledge of generally accepted accounting principles and their application within governmental or public-sector accounting environments.
• Experience preparing journal entries, performing account reconciliations, and completing bank reconciliations with a high degree of accuracy.
• Understanding of financial administration practices such as budgeting, reporting, and financial analysis.
• Familiarity with federal, state, and local regulations related to accounting procedures, documentation, and records retention.
• Proficiency with computerized accounting systems, spreadsheets, and other office technology used for financial recordkeeping and reporting.
• Demonstrated ability to analyze data, exercise critical thinking, and communicate clearly in both written and verbal formats.
• Ability to build effective working relationships while managing multiple priorities and maintaining close attention to detail.

Compensation

$42.75-$49.50 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.

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 and get 1-tap apply, notifications of AI-matched jobs, and much more.

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.

© 2025 Robert Half. An Equal Opportunity Employer. M/F/Disability/Veterans. By clicking “Apply Now,” you’re agreeing to Robert Half’s Terms of Use and Privacy Notice.