The Highway Finance Accountant III is responsible for planning, directing, and administering the financial and accounting operations of the Rusk County Highway Department. This position ensures the accuracy and integrity of the department's financial records, payroll, cost accounting, budgeting, financial reporting, and compliance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP), Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT) requirements, and applicable federal, state, and county regulations. The position serves as the department's primary financial advisor to the Highway Commissioner by providing financial analysis, budget oversight, and strategic recommendations to support effective fiscal management. The following duties are normal for this position. These are not to be construed as exclusive or all-inclusive. Other duties may be required and assigned. Directs and administers the financial and accounting operations of the Highway Department, including the general ledger, accounts payable, accounts receivable, payroll reconciliation, journal entries, cost accounting, and financial reporting. Leads the development of the department's annual operating and capital budgets in collaboration with the Highway Commissioner. Assists with long-range financial planning, capital improvement planning, and forecasting to support the department's operational and strategic goals. Monitors budget performance throughout the year by analyzing revenues, expenditures, and project costs; identifies variances, prepares budget transfers, and provides recommendations to maintain fiscal responsibility and compliance with approved budgets. Establishes, maintains, and ensures compliance with departmental accounting systems and financial reporting processes in accordance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP), County policies, and applicable federal and state regulations. Prepares and analyzes monthly, quarterly, and annual financial reports, fund statements, reconciliations, budget transfers, and year-end closing entries. Administers the Highway Department's cost accounting system, including labor, equipment, materials, inventory, and project costing to ensure accurate financial reporting and cost recovery. Coordinates Highway Department payroll processing by reviewing payroll records, timekeeping information, and related financial reconciliations for accuracy. Oversees accounts payable and accounts receivable functions, including processing invoices, customer billings, reimbursements, and collections. Prepares and submits required financial reports, reimbursement requests, transportation aid documentation, and other reports required by the Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT) and other regulatory agencies. Administers the financial requirements of WisDOT transportation aid, grants, reimbursement programs, and other state and federal funding sources applicable to the Highway Department. Maintains financial records for capital assets, equipment, depreciation, infrastructure, fuel, and inventory; oversees inventory reconciliations and annual physical inventories. Coordinates annual financial audit activities, prepares supporting documentation, responds to auditor inquiries, and recommends improvements to internal financial controls. Serves as the department's financial advisor by providing fiscal analysis, recommendations, and technical guidance to the Highway Commissioner and collaborating with the County Finance Department, auditors, WisDOT, and other stakeholders. Bachelor's Degree in Accounting or closely related field with 2-3 years related experience in accounting and/or budgeting experience; or any combination of education and experience. Experience in cost and/or construction project accounting and working with automated systems. Knowledge of computers, spreadsheets, and general office equipment. Knowledge related to collecting, analyzing, and interpreting data from multiple sources. Ability to effectively present information to top management, public groups, and/or boards. Ability to respond to common inquiries or complaints from customers, regulatory agencies, or members of the business community. Knowledge of accounting internal controls, and proper applications. Knowledge of accounting principles and practices, accounts payable, and payroll practices. Knowledge of generally accepted accounting principles and theories; of financial statements and reports; of accounting ledgers and journals; and of computer technology related to accounting systems. Physical Requirements This job entails minimal physical demands, typically found in an office environment, with very limited exposure to workplace hazards. Some lifting, moving, bending, and twisting. Work Environment Usual office working conditions - comfortable work environment.

EOE / ADA

Statement Rusk County is an Equal Opportunity Employer. In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, Rusk County will provide reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities and encourages both prospective and current employees to discuss potential accommodations with the employer. Selection Guidelines Formal application, rating of education and experience; oral interview and reference check; job related tests may be required. The duties listed above are intended only as illustrations of the various types of work that may be performed. The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related or a logical assignment to the position. The job description does not constitute an employment agreement between the employer and employee and is subject to change by the employer as the needs of the employer and requirements of the job change.