City Internship Position Description Form
The Government Accounting Intern will assist the Finance Department with a variety of accounting, financial reporting, and administrative tasks. This position provides hands-on experience in public sector financial operations, including budget preparation, payroll support, accounts payable/receivable, grant management, and auditing processes. The intern will gain exposure to municipal financial systems, state and federal compliance requirements, and internal controls.
Essential Duties & Responsibilities
Knowledge, Skills & Abilities
Minimum Qualifications
Preferred Qualifications
Work Environment & Physical Requirements
| Department: | Finance Department |
| Supervisor: | Diana Desanto |
The Government Accounting Intern will assist the Finance Department with a variety of accounting, financial reporting, and administrative tasks. This position provides hands-on experience in public sector financial operations, including budget preparation, payroll support, accounts payable/receivable, grant management, and auditing processes. The intern will gain exposure to municipal financial systems, state and federal compliance requirements, and internal controls.
Essential Duties & Responsibilities
- Assist with daily accounting functions, including data entry, invoice processing, and account reconciliations.
- Support monthly, quarterly, and annual financial reporting.
- Help prepare budget documents, worksheets, and summaries for departmental and citywide use.
- Assist in monitoring grant expenditures, documentation, and compliance requirements.
- Participate in internal audit activities, including reviewing records for accuracy and completeness.
- Maintain organized financial records in accordance with retention policies.
- Support payroll processing by verifying time entries and assisting with documentation.
- Perform research on accounting standards, government financial regulations, and best practices.
- Provide general administrative support to the Finance Department.
- Other duties as assigned.
Knowledge, Skills & Abilities
- Basic understanding of accounting principles (GAAP); familiarity with governmental accounting is a plus.
- Strong attention to detail and accuracy.
- Ability to maintain confidentiality with sensitive financial information.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Excel, Word, and Outlook.
- Strong organizational and time-management skills.
- Ability to analyze financial data and prepare clear reports.
- Effective communication skills, both written and verbal.
- Willingness to learn and follow instructions.
Minimum Qualifications
- Currently pursuing a degree in Accounting, Finance, Public Administration, Business Administration, or a related field.
- Completed coursework in introductory accounting.
- Ability to pass a background check.
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience with financial software or ERP systems.
- Knowledge of governmental accounting standards (GASB).
- Prior internship or work experience in an office or accounting environment.
Work Environment & Physical Requirements
- Standard office environment; frequent use of computers and office equipment.
- Ability to sit or stand for extended periods.
- May occasionally lift up to 20 pounds (files, boxes, etc.).
