ACCOUNTING SPECIALIST 1

This position researches and processes maintenance supportive services and allowance payments for Foster Care, Residential, Placements and Group Homes.

In addition, provides administrative / technical assistance to Independent Living Program and Subsidy Guardianship Units and Adoption Subsidy in the Payment Processing Unit.

This position may offer the ability to work remotely, within Arizona, based upon the department's business needs and continual meeting of expected performance measures.

The State of Arizona strives for a work culture that affords employees flexibility, autonomy, and trust. Across our many agencies, boards, and commissions, many State employees participate in the State’s Remote Work Program and are able to work remotely in their homes, in offices, and in hoteling spaces.

All work, including remote work, should be performed within Arizona unless an exception is properly authorized in advance.

Job Duties :

Examines, evaluates, approves / denies and processes a high volume of payments for maintenance, supporting services and allowances for Foster Care, Residential and Group Home providers utilizing the Guardian database.

Ensures accurate fiscal data entry, researches payment discrepancies and researches payment issues.

Resolves complex billing questions from staff, overpayment and offsets. Reviews and audits to ensure departmental rules and regulations are followed.

Processes and collaborates with DCS accounting staff regarding "Stop Payments and Expired" warrants. Reviews and reconciles daily Guardian reports for accuracy of billings processed.

Provides customer service via phone and email. Collaborates and coordinates with providers to ensure accurate payments.

Educates and instructs providers on how to compile billing documents accurately and thoroughly. Researches, resolves and responds to provider concerns.

Assists internal customers as needed.

Assists in the establishment and revisions of methods and procedures to ensure internal control and adherence to Federal and State guidelines.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities (KSAs) :

Knowledge of :

• Federal and State laws, statutes, and regulations relating to payment processing
• Guardian computer system
• Accounting methods and techniques
• Check / warrant processing
• Office procedures and equipment

Skill in :

• Analyzing, researching and interpreting fiscal data
• Verifying billings / claims
• Mathematics
• Verbal and written communication

Ability to :

• Analyze and resolve issues
• Organize and prioritize work assignments
• Work in a fast paced environment
• Provide professional and effective customer service techniques
• Apply agency and state policies and procedures

Selective Preference(s) :

Accounting and customer service experience.

Pre-Employment Requirements :

Must be able to secure and maintain clearance from DCS Central Registry.

If this position may require driving or the use of a vehicle as an essential function of the job to conduct State business, then the following requirements apply : Driver’s License Requirements.

All newly hired State employees are subject to and must successfully complete the Electronic Employment Eligibility Verification Program (E-Verify).

Benefits :

The State of Arizona provides an excellent comprehensive benefits package including :

Affordable medical, dental, life, and short-term disability insurance plans

Top-ranked retirement and long-term disability plans

10 paid holidays per year

Vacation time accrued at 4.00 hours bi-weekly for the first 3 years

Sick time accrued at 3.70 hours bi-weekly

Deferred compensation plan

Wellness plans

By providing the option of a full-time or part-time remote work schedule, employees enjoy improved work / life balance, report higher job satisfaction, and are more productive.

Remote work is a management option and not an employee entitlement or right. An agency may terminate a remote work agreement at its discretion.

Learn more about the Paid Parental Leave pilot program here.