Municipal Accountant

The Job

The Town of Edson is seeking a Municipal Accountant to support the accuracy, integrity, and effective use of financial information across the organization. Reporting to the Manager of Finance, this role contributes to a broad range of accounting functions and works closely with departments to ensure financial practices are consistent and aligned with organizational priorities.

This position offers the opportunity to be involved in both day-to-day financial operations and ongoing improvements to processes and controls. The Municipal Accountant is a trusted resource within the organization, providing clear financial information and helping support informed decision-making. The role also contributes to a professional and collaborative work environment that values accountability, respect, and service to the community.

The Candidate

The ideal candidate is a reliable and professional accounting practitioner who produces accurate, high-quality work and applies sound judgment in a practical and thoughtful way. They have a strong foundation in accounting principles and are comfortable taking ownership of their responsibilities while remaining collaborative and engaged with their team. Experience in a municipal or public sector environment is valued, along with an understanding of the importance of accountability and transparency in that setting. They communicate clearly and respectfully, building positive working relationships across the organization and contributing to a supportive, team-oriented environment.

Their approach is grounded in integrity and accountability, supported by strong attention to detail and the ability to adapt as priorities evolve. They are open to learning, receptive to feedback, and motivated to improve both their own work and the processes around them. Supported by relevant education and experience, they are confident working with financial data and systems and bring a steady, organized approach to their work while contributing to a well-run and professional organization.

To learn more about the role and expectations, please consult the attached job description.

About the Town of Edson and our team

Edson's growth over the years is built on the rich natural resources in the region, creating a steady and viable economy now and into the future. Enjoy the vast and beautiful trail system throughout the community, take in some local history at the Galloway Station Museum, explore the great recreation and culture programs offered through our Community Development team, and embrace a lifestyle that lets you reconnect with the things that matter most.

We are looking for the right fit to join our team! At the Town of Edson, every team member takes pride in serving our community. Our success is driven by our core values: Communication, Creativity, Kindness, Respect, and Teamwork. At the Town of Edson, we prioritize culture and finding the right fit. Creating an environment where people feel supported, valued, and part of something meaningful. We believe that when the environment is right, accountability and high performance naturally follow. If you want to be part of a team where it’s safe to speak up, take risks, and grow together, we’d love to hear how you see yourself as the right fit for the Town of Edson.

We’re proud to be part of a community that supports growth, connection, and quality of life. Learn more about why Edson is a great place to live, work, and thrive at www.ChooseEdson.ca.

What do we offer?

Compensation

The wage range for this position is $97,500 - $121,000 per year.

Benefits

This position also offers a robust benefits package, which includes:

• A generous vacation package
• Sunlife benefits through Alberta Municipalities including an annual Flexible Spending Account
• An excellent defined-benefit pension plan through LAPP

Job Description

General

Reporting directly to the Manager of Finance, the Municipal Accountant will be responsible for accounting duties that require a high degree of professional judgement.

Primary Responsibilities and Authority

General Duties

• Generate non-routine journal entries and complete complex reconciliations in accordance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles.

• Recommend and implement improvements to accounting policies, procedures and financial controls in the spirit of continuous improvement.

• Provides assistance to the Finance Manager in providing guidance and support to all Finance Department staff to ensure smooth operations in the department and finance functions within other departments.

• Assist with insurance processes, and compliance. Maintain the Town’s insurance portfolio, including renewals and adjustments to insured assets, claims, administration, and advising on insurance requirements.

• Provide high quality financial information and analyses to support decision making.

• Work closely with management to ensure financial plans and strategies align with the organization’s goals.

• Provides support to all departments and the public through excellent internal and external customer service.

• Act as a coach and mentor to colleagues in Finance and across the Town, working with teams to train and develop financial procedures.

• Support the Emergency Operations Centre during a disaster response.

• The Municipal Accountant will also be involved in a wide variety of the Town’s accounting functions.

Human Resources, Team Management, and Leadership

• Foster a team environment which inspires hard work, dedication, collaboration, and fun supporting a positive organizational culture.

• Responsible for maintaining a working environment which includes integrity, trust, and respect in accordance with Town policies.

Financial and Budgetary

• Assist with the Finance Department’s annual operating and capital budgets.

• Ensure that all procurement is completed in accordance with the approved budget, Town policies, and other regulatory requirements.

• Assist in pursuing alternative sources of funding for department projects to offset the reliance of public funds. (i.e. grants).

Corporate/Administration

• Understanding the role within adopted policies procedures and bylaws, and ensuring they are followed in decision making and in the delivery of services.

• Ongoing management of Policies and Bylaws under the responsibility of Finance Services.

• Assist in the creation of reports outlining Department initiatives and projects to Senior Leaders, Council and the public as required.

• Respect and uphold organizational and staff confidentiality.

Public Relations

• Establish and maintain positive constructive relations with internal and external clients.

• Respond to concerns and complaints in a timely and tactful manner, and in accordance with Town policies and bylaws.

Health and Safety

• Ensure that all Safe Work Practices and Procedures are followed.

• Review pertinent Hazard Identification, Assessment and Control worksheets on an annual basis as required by the Municipal Health and Safety Program.

• Act upon all reports of any unsafe conditions, potential work hazards or incidents.

• Advise the HR Manager regarding all Health and Safety concerns.

• Actively participate in Formal Workplace Inspections in area of responsibility.

Qualifications

Core Competencies

• Strong customer service focus, commitment to confidentiality and excellent communication skills.

• Proficiency with computers including an advanced knowledge of Microsoft Excel is mandatory.

• Strong understanding of financial accounting concepts, financial systems, data, and internal controls to ensure the accuracy, existence, and completeness of financial data.

• Self-motivated with the ability to work autonomously and take initiative on finding solutions for complex problems. This will include a willingness to take on leadership opportunities and lead projects independently.

• Knowledge of the PSAB and Municipal Government Act considered an asset.

Job Requirements

• A graduate from a recognized post-secondary institution with a Bachelor of Commerce or Bachelor of Business Administration with a major in Accounting or Finance is mandatory.

• A minimum of 2-4 years relevant accounting experience is mandatory.

• A designated Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA) or candidate and other relevant post-graduate credentials will be considered in the absence of the minimum relevant accounting experience.

• Satisfactory Criminal Record Check

• Successful applicant must provide proof of qualifications.

• Applicants with international education will be required to include an Academic Credential Assessment with application.

Alternative combinations of education and experience which demonstrably provide the required knowledge, and skills may be eligible in certain circumstances.