About the Role
The Free State Department of Finance is seeking dedicated individuals for the role of State Accountant: Rates and Taxes in Bloemfontein. This vital position plays a crucial role in ensuring the financial integrity of municipal revenue, which directly impacts the community’s services and development. As a State Accountant, you will engage in various financial processes that help maintain accurate records and resolve any discrepancies, contributing to transparent and efficient public service.
Working in the heart of Bloemfontein, you will be part of a team that is committed to upholding the standards of public finance management. This role is essential in supporting the financial operations of the government, ensuring that funds are allocated properly and that the community receives the services it deserves. By managing invoices, payments, and reconciliations, you will be making a tangible difference in your local community.
About the Department
The Free State Department of Finance is dedicated to promoting financial accountability and transparency within the province. Its mission is to manage public finances effectively, ensuring that resources are used efficiently for the benefit of all citizens. Working within this department offers a unique opportunity to engage with financial systems that underpin the public sector, making a meaningful impact on the lives of South Africans.
As part of this dynamic team, you will contribute to the department’s goals of fostering economic growth and improving service delivery through sound financial management practices.
What You’ll Do
- Verify invoices and prepare payment submissions in line with established policies.
- Request and review supporting documents from clients to ensure accuracy in billing and charges.
- Prepare complete payment parcels for review and approval, addressing any queries that may arise.
- Reconcile accounts and capture payments accurately within the financial system.
- Investigate discrepancies and work with clients to resolve outstanding balances.
- Monitor expenditure and track the progress of payment submissions.
- Maintain registers for invoices, payments, and outstanding liabilities, ensuring thorough documentation.
- Compile reports on financial activities, including expenditure and overdue accounts, to support audit processes.
What You’ll Need
- A Grade 12 Certificate and a Degree or National Diploma in Financial Accounting, Management Accounting, or Financial Management.
- At least 1 year of experience in a financial management environment.
- A valid driver’s licence.
- Familiarity with the Public Service Act, Public Finance Management Act, and Treasury Regulations.
- Strong communication skills, both verbal and written.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications, including Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Project.
How to Apply
Applications can be submitted by hand delivery during office hours to the relevant address or by email as specified below.
Requirements
Minimum requirements: Applicants must be in possession of a Grade 12 Certificate and a Degree or National Diploma in Financial Accounting / Management Accounting / Financial Management or related equivalent qualification.Minimum of 1 year experience in financial management environment.
A valid driver’s licence.
Job related knowledge: Public Service Act.
Public Finance Management Act.
Preferential Procurement Policy Framework Act.
Treasury Regulations, 2005.
Job related skills: Communication (verbal and written).
Facilitation and presentation.
Financial Management.
Computer literacy (Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Project).
Job Duties
Verify invoices and prepare payment submissions.Request invoices, statements and supporting documents from clients.
Verify details, billing, tariffs, calculations and validity of charges.
Prepare complete payment parcels in accordance with policies, SOPs and delegations.
Submit payment parcels for review and approval and address queries.
Reconcile accounts and capturing of payments.
Reconcile statements with accounting records, payments and credits.
Investigate discrepancies and substantiate outstanding balances.
Engage clients to resolve queries.
Capture payments on financial system.
Monitor expenditure and payment progress.
Track payment submissions and follow up outstanding payments.
Communicate payment outcomes and confirm correct allocation to municipal accounts.
Maintain invoice, payment and outstanding liability registers.
Monitor overdue invoices and progress in reducing the payment backlog.
Compile reports and support audit processes.
Compile reports on expenditure, liabilities, disputed accounts and overdue invoices.
Report progress on backlog reduction and municipal clearance matters.
Maintain complete supporting records and audit trails.
Respond to audit queries and implement assigned corrective actions.