ACCOUNTING SPECIALIST 1

Job Summary :

The Accounting Specialist I position located in the Centralized Payment Processing Unit is responsible for accurately and timely paying a high volume of invoices for contracted child welfare services and / or placement providers.

This includes examining invoices, supporting documentation and payments, reconciling billing discrepancies, working with providers and other units within the department to resolve payment barriers and ensure accurate payments.

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 :

Process a high volume of invoices which includes examining, evaluating, approving / denying payments for contracted child welfare services and / or placement providers by ensuring that the invoices meet the contract requirements and / or DCS policy, necessary to support payment.

This also includes research and analysis of data from provider invoices, case manager records, Guardian, and other sources as well as initiating requests via e-mail, phone, fax or other approved department methods for assistance in resolving payment barriers.

Research and resolve billing discrepancies. Includes collaboration with providers, and / or case managers to determine correct level of service, units, and rates.

Review, analyze, research and resolve provider payment issues. Utilize critical thinking skills, resolve problems independently.

Coordinate with Referral Unit, Placement Administration and SRSA Unit to remedy problems with Guardian service approvals related to outstanding payments.

Coordinate with contracts staff to remedy invoice discrepancies related to contract requirements.

• Assist in the establishment and revision of methods and procedures used in the accomplishment of work assignments.
• Attend trainings, meetings, and perform other duties as assigned.
• Other duties as assigned as related to the position.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities (KSAs) : Knowledge of :

Accounting principles, techniques and

practices

Multiple funded programs reflecting in

various organizations

• Personal Computers
• Microsoft Office Suite
• Basic Mathematics

Skills in :

• Verifying invoices
• Identifying and resolving discrepancies
• Interpersonal relationships
• Verbal and written communication
• 10-key operation by touch
• Reconciling
• Data entry
• Multitask

Ability to :

• Analyze and Interpret Data
• Collaborate with a variety of people to

achieve a common goal

• Organize and prioritize work
• Apply Department of Child Safety (DCS)

policies and procedures

• Apply state and federal laws, rules and regulations related to DCS payment.
• Work in a fast-paced environment

Selective Preference(s) :

The ideal candidate for this position will have :

Experience in accounts payable.

Experience providing customer service.

Experience using Guardian.

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 :

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 . For a complete list of benefits provided by The State of Arizona, please visit our

Retirement :

Positions in this classification participate in the Arizona State Retirement System (ASRS). Enrollment eligibility will become effective after 27 weeks of employment.