Principal Accountant

We are looking for an experienced Principal Accountant to support complex accounting operations for a public sector environment in Downey, California. This Long-term Contract opportunity is ideal for a detail-oriented finance specialist who can manage core accounting activities, interpret regulatory requirements, and produce accurate financial reporting in a highly accountable setting. The role calls for strong judgment, attention to detail, and the ability to work effectively with financial systems, cross-functional stakeholders, and established government accounting standards.

Responsibilities:
• Lead month-end close activities, ensuring entries are recorded accurately and deadlines are met.
• Maintain and review general ledger activity to support reliable financial statements and audit readiness.
• Prepare, analyze, and post journal entries related to routine and complex accounting transactions.
• Perform detailed account reconciliations and resolve variances through research, documentation, and follow-up.
• Complete bank reconciliations and investigate discrepancies to maintain accurate cash reporting.
• Apply governmental accounting standards and relevant federal, state, and local regulations to financial processes and records.
• Support budget reporting, financial analysis, and the preparation of materials used for management decision-making.
• Use accounting systems and reporting tools to evaluate financial data, strengthen controls, and improve operational accuracy.

Qualifications:

• Minimum of 4 years of accounting experience, with strong senior-level accounting capability.

• Working knowledge of generally accepted accounting principles and auditing practices, preferably in a governmental environment.

• Hands-on experience with month-end close, general ledger management, journal entries, account reconciliations, and bank reconciliations.

• Ability to interpret financial regulations, policies, and record retention requirements with a high degree of accuracy.

• Strong analytical and critical thinking skills with the ability to assess data and make sound decisions.

• Proficiency with financial systems, spreadsheets, and other technology used in accounting and reporting functions.

• Effective written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present information clearly and collaborate with stakeholders.

• Demonstrated attention to detail, organization, and the ability to manage priorities in a deadline-driven setting.

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.

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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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