Baton Rouge, Louisiana, Plant Accountant
Manages the accounting flow of capital/plant operations of the Cooperative. Responsible for processing work orders to ensure proper inventory and asset allocations. Ensures the accuracy and completion of cooperative plant accounting records. Prepares and coordinates the requests for reimbursements related to FEMA and mutual aid storm events. Initiates and monitors damage billing reimbursements related to theft and damages to cooperative assets.
Key Responsibilities:
Reconciles inventory, work order and fixed asset subsidiary ledgers to the general ledger monthly.
Reconciles construction and retirement work-in-progress to the general ledger monthly.
Responsible for setup and maintenance of construction units and record units, including periodic calculation and updating standard costs.
Ensures proper work plan numbers and years are assigned to work orders and ensures tag numbers are applied to fixed assets appropriately.
Calculates depreciation for fixed assets monthly.
Prepares fuel and transportation cost allocations and related journals.
Calculates overhead rates and ensures they are properly applied to open work orders.
Reconciles all work order costs to staking sheets and/or as-builts, research discrepancies and closes work orders to plant.
Evaluates and reports on the status of open work orders and determines whether to close or cancel them; ensuring all construction and retirement work-in-progress is timely closed to plant.
Summarizes data and prepares Inventory of Work Orders reports and Special Equipment reports to meet Rural Utilities Service (RUS) reporting and loan fund requisition requirements.
Responsible for identifying and initiating refunds for excess contributions in aid-to-construction.
Reviews of fixed asset and construction contractor invoices in preparation for payment; including proper rate, tag, classification and coding.
Coordinates the periodic physical inventory of fixed assets.
Maintains FEMA documentation after qualifying events and assists in preparing project worksheets.
Obtains and maintains a thorough working knowledge of Cooperatives software systems as pertains to duties and responsibilities assigned.
Prepares reports, correspondenc, and audit work papers, as required.
Receives training as directed by the Controller and/or CFO.
Updates and maintains daily job procedures.
Performs all duties assigned by supervision.
Emergency response coverage, as needed.
Minimum Qualifications:
Education/Experience:
Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college/university in accounting, finance, business, mathematics, or related field is required.
Minimum three (3) years of experience in accounting or experience with work order processes, field engineering, and utility knowledge required. RUS or FERC accounting experience preferred.
Utilization of a work order/accounting software system preferred. Experience in general utilities, contracting or construction is a plus.
Experience in lieu of education: Eight (8) years of experience in accounting and/or work order processes, field engineering, or utility knowledge will be considered.
Certification/License, etc.: Certificates and/or licenses relevant to utilities, accounting or work order processing are preferred. Must be willing to actively pursue industry related training including but not limited to CFC, NRECA, and accounting classes.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
A solid understanding of work order processing and accounting principles.
Strong ability to analyze financial information is required.
An understanding of the electric utility industry is desired.
An understanding of the work order process flow used by an electric utility preferred. Proficient in Microsoft Excel, Word, and Outlook. Excellent analytical, decision-making, and problem-solving skills.
Attention to accuracy and detail required.
Physical Demands and Work Environment:
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
The employee may be required to stand; reach with hands and arms, stoop and kneel.
The employee may be required to sit or stand for long periods of time.
The employee may be required to lift, carry, push, pull, or move up to 25 pounds.
The employee may be required to travel overnight to regional and national destinations.
May be required to work outside normal hours.
Required Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree in Accounting or Finance
Seven years of accounting experience
Strong knowledge of GAAP and financial reporting
Experience with month-end, quarter-end, and year-end close
Proven internal controls and compliance experience
Hands-on experience with general ledger, AP/AR, payroll, and reconciliations
Advanced Excel skills
Ability to lead, mentor, and manage accounting staff
Preferred Qualifications
CPA
Experience in utilities, construction, or regulated industries
NetSuite system experience
Audit and tax coordination experience
Experience supporting CFO and executive leadership
Budgeting, forecasting, compliance, and financial analysis experience