About the Role
The Department of Finance is looking for dedicated individuals to fill the role of State Accountant: Rates and Taxes in various districts within the beautiful Western Cape. This position is vital in ensuring that financial transactions and records are accurately processed, which directly supports the efficiency of public service operations. The State Accountant will play a critical role in maintaining financial integrity, managing invoices, and reconciling accounts, ultimately contributing to the community’s trust in government financial management.
Based in cities across the Western Cape, this role offers a unique opportunity to engage with various clients and stakeholders, making a tangible difference in how public finances are managed. By ensuring that payments are processed correctly and promptly, the State Accountant aids in reducing backlog issues and improving the overall financial health of the region. This position not only supports the smooth functioning of the department but also enhances service delivery to the public.
About the Department
The Department of Finance is committed to promoting effective and efficient financial management practices across government entities. Its mission is to ensure the prudent use of public resources, fostering transparency and accountability in financial reporting. By joining this department, you will become part of a team that values integrity and strives to make a positive impact on the lives of South Africans through sound financial governance.
What You’ll Do
- Verify invoices and prepare payment submissions to ensure accuracy.
- Request necessary documents from clients, ensuring all details are correct.
- Prepare complete payment packages in accordance with established policies and procedures.
- Submit payment parcels for review and address any queries that arise.
- Reconcile accounts and capture payments accurately within the financial system.
- Investigate discrepancies and substantiate outstanding balances through client engagement.
- Monitor expenditure and track payment progress to facilitate timely financial management.
- Compile reports on financial activities, supporting audit processes and compliance.
- Maintain comprehensive records of invoices, payments, and outstanding liabilities.
- Implement corrective actions in response to audit queries, ensuring continuous improvement.
What You’ll Need
- A Grade 12 Certificate and a Degree or National Diploma in Financial Accounting, Management Accounting, Financial Management, or a related field.
- A minimum of 1 year of experience in a financial management environment.
- A valid driver’s license to facilitate travel as needed.
- Knowledge of the Public Service Act and Public Finance Management Act.
- Strong verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to facilitate and present information effectively.
- 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: 4th floor, No 2 Riebeeck Street, ABSA Building, Cape Town or by email to [email protected]
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.
