Accounting Supervisor
City of Oakland, CA
Oakland, CA 94612$117,038.64 - $143,685.84 a yearFull Time
Job Description
The Position
The City of Oakland is an equal opportunity employer that values workforce diversity, inclusion, and equity. Oakland has a long history of activism around issues of justice and equity. Both oppression and this resistance to oppression have shaped the city’s historical roots and the lives of its residents to this day. As public servants in one of the most diverse cities in the nation, we strive to develop employees who understand the harm and impacts of systemic inequity to create lasting, meaningful outcomes for everyone. Oakland strives to establish an environment that embraces the richness of culture, community, and individualism of employees.
Why join the City of Oakland Finance Department?
The City of Oakland is currently recruiting to fill one (1) Accounting Supervisor vacancy in the Controller's Bureau of the Finance Department. The Accounting Supervisor will lead key accounting operations within the City, which may include accounts receivable, notes and loans receivable, grants accounting, and accounts payable, based on departmental needs. The ideal candidate will be highly experienced in governmental accounting with strong technical knowledge of financial accounting functions and demonstrate outstanding management skills.
The Accounting Supervisor plans, organizes, assigns, directs, reviews, and participates in a variety of supervisory tasks involving complex accounting and reporting functions, including grants and accounts receivable; directs the preparation of mandated reports; trains and supervises assigned staff; and performs related duties as assigned. The Accounting Supervisor is a first-line supervisory classification. It is distinguished from the lower-level Accountant III in that the incumbent of the latter may provide either lead direction or supervision and perform complex accounting functions.
Oakland is a vibrant, diverse City undergoing rapid growth. The appeal of living and working in Oakland continues to attract new residents, visitors, and employers, offering opportunities and amenities for City workers as well. The successful candidate for the position of Accounting Supervisor will have an immediate impact on City financial operations and the opportunity to help determine the course of future improvements to the City financial systems.
We are looking for someone who is:
Knowledgeable in governmental accounting principles: You will need to show a solid understanding of GAAP/GASB, accounting operations, financial reporting, and internal controls.
Analytical and detail-oriented: You will be expected to review complex financial data, identify discrepancies, and ensure accuracy and compliance in reporting.
Dedicated to process improvement: You will play a key role in identifying and implementing ways to streamline procedures, enhance efficiency, and strengthen internal controls.
Effective communicator: You will need to communicate financial and accounting concepts to internal stakeholders and external auditors.
A collaborative leader: You will supervise, mentor, and develop a small team that works together to ensure strong internal controls, audit readiness, and compliant financial reporting, so it’s important to foster a positive and inclusive team culture.
Adaptable: You will be expected to effectively manage multiple priorities and adjust to evolving deadlines, systems, and reporting requirements
Ethical and accountable: You will be expected to demonstrate integrity, sound judgment, and a commitment to transparency in public financial management
What you will typically be responsible for:
Overseeing assigned accounting operations, which may include accounts receivable, notes and loans, grants, accounts payable, and month and year-end close activities.
Reviewing and analyzing complex financial transactions and account reconciliations; identifying and resolving discrepancies.
Assisting with preparing, reviewing, and analyzing the Annual Comprehensive Financial Report (ACFR) and Schedule of Expenditures of Federal Awards (SEFA).
Supporting external and internal audits by preparing schedules, responding to auditor inquiries, and ensuring the timely completion of audit requirements.
Supervising, training, and evaluating assigned accounting staff, including performance feedback.
Serving as a key liaison with departments and auditors, overseeing the annual Single Audit.
Identifying opportunities to streamline accounting processes, enhance efficiency, and prepare and maintain procedure manuals.
*
A few reasons you might love this job:
Your work will be impactful and will help ensure transparency, accountability, and trust in how the City manages public funds.
You will have the opportunity to mentor staff and foster a culture of collaboration and continuous learning.
You will play a key role in modernizing and enhancing systems while implementing process improvements to increase efficiency.
You will join a supportive and mission-driven team that celebrates those who take initiative to improve how the City serves its residents.
A few challenges you might face in this job:
You will need to balance leadership and overseeing staff processes while performing hands-on, complex financial analysis and reporting.
You will need to navigate complex compliance requirements and work with a variety of grants and audit requirements that demand precision and strong technical expertise
You will be expected to collaborate across departments by building strong relationships and ensuring alignment among teams with different operational needs and priorities.
You will be expected to manage competing priorities, operational demands, and overlapping deadlines that often require flexibility, organization, and sound judgment.
Competencies Required:
Analyzing & Interpreting Data: Drawing meaning and conclusions from quantitative or qualitative data
Attention to Detail: Focusing on the details of work content, work steps, and final work products
Building & Maintaining Relationships: Establishing rapport and maintaining mutually productive relationships
Critical Thinking: Analytically and logically evaluating information, propositions, and claims
Decision Making: Choosing optimal courses of action in a timely manner
Displaying Ownership and Accountability: Holding self and others accountable for measurable high-quality, timely, and cost-effective results.
Leadership: Guiding and encouraging others to accomplish a common goal
Managing Performance: Ensuring superior individual and group performance
Oral Communication: Engaging effectively in dialogue
Professional & Technical Expertise: Applying technical subject matter to the job
Teamwork: Collaborating with others to achieve shared goals
Minimum Requirements for Application
This recruitment will produce two eligible lists. The restricted list will be for full-time, permanent part-time, or part-time City and Port of Oakland employees who maintain employment for the duration of the recruitment and pass all stages of the recruitment process. The open list will be for all other applicants who pass all stages of the recruitment process.
Any combination of education and experience that is equivalent to the following minimum qualifications may be acceptable.
Education:
A Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in accounting, business administration or related field.
Experience:
Four (4) years of experience in governmental accounting, including one (1) year of lead or supervisory experience.
Desirable Qualifications:
Experience with Annual Comprehensive Financial Report (ACFR) preparation and Schedule of Expenditures of Federal Awards (SEFA) in the public sector is highly desirable.
Possession of a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) license.
Master’s degree in accounting, finance, business administration, public administration, or a related field.
Experience with Oracle Financial System.
Experience working with other public agencies and elected officials.
Supplemental Information
The City of Oakland works with a Civil Service system. Applicants apply online, and HR staff reviews their experience, education, and training listed on the application against the “minimum qualifications” listed for each position.
Candidates who demonstrate that they meet the minimum qualification requirements are then invited to participate in an assessment process (or testing) to measure their knowledge, skills, and abilities in job-related areas.
Candidates who do not demonstrate that they meet the minimum qualification requirements will have an opportunity to request a final review. Candidates must request a final review within 5 business days of being notified that they did not meet the minimum qualifications.
In the final review, candidates may clarify information already provided on their application. No additional work history, education, or certifications will be accepted. Any decisions made during this review process will be final.
For this recruitment, all qualified applicants will be invited to the structured interview (sometimes referred to as an Oral Exam) (weighted 100%), which will be evaluated and rated by subject matter experts. The structured interview will be conducted as a one-way video interview, where you will record your responses to a set of questions. You will have seven days from the time you receive the interview link to complete and submit your video responses. The tentative date of the structured interview is the week of March 9, 2026.
Candidates who pass each stage in the process will be placed on an eligible list. Some candidates may receive extra points, for example, if you are a Veteran with an honorable discharge, or if you are a current City of Oakland resident. If you’re applying to a “restricted” posting and you are eligible as a current City employee, you may also receive additional points for your City service. Extra points are only applied to passing scores, so if you do not pass every element of the testing process, you cannot use extra points to pass.
The City of Oakland reserves the right to modify the selection process and date of examination as necessary to conform to administrative or business necessity. The information contained in this announcement is subject to change and does not constitute either an expressed or implied contract.
What’s in it for you?
Work/Life Balance: 37.5 hour work weeks. This position may be eligible for a hybrid work schedule in accordance with City and Department policies.
15 paid holidays
Vacation: 2 weeks per year minimum with the ability to accrue more depending on public sector years of service
Retirement: CalPERS (California Public Employees’ Retirement System) with a pension formula of 2.5% @ 55 (for Classic CalPERS members) and 2% @ 62 for new CalPERS members. Classic Employees contribute 8% of pre-tax wages. The City of Oakland does not participate in Social Security
Health: The City of Oakland pays the full cost of employee and eligible dependent coverage at the Kaiser rate. Other plans include Anthem, Blue Shield, United Health Care, and other HMO and PPO plans
Dental: Delta Dental full premium for employees and eligible dependents
Vision: VSP full premium for employees and eligible dependents
Sick leave: Employees accrue 12 days per year
Deferred Compensation: 457(b) pre-tax plan and an after-tax ROTH 401(k)plan
Other benefits include a Flexible Spending Account, Wellness Program, Employee Assistance Program, Tuition Reimbursement, Life Insurance up to $200k & Employee Training.
*Benefits described herein do not represent a contract and may be changed without notice. Additional information can be found here:
Applicants are required to submit criminal history information upon request after receiving a conditional offer of employment. If the requested information is not furnished in a timely manner, applicants will not qualify for further consideration and will be removed from the eligible list.
Disaster Service Workers
All employees are designated Disaster Service Workers through state and local law. Employees are required to complete all Disaster Service Worker-related training as assigned and to return to work as ordered in the event of an emergency.
How to Apply
Apply prior to the closing time of the job announcement and allow at least two to three hours to submit your application if you are a new user of the system.
http://agency.governmentjobs.com/oaklandca/default.cfm.
If you do not have access to a computer, there are computer stations available at any City of Oakland Public Library. There are also workstations at the Human Resources Management Department, 150 Frank H. Ogawa Plaza, 2nd Floor, Oakland, CA 94612. Workstations are available during regular business hours (normally 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.).
Our online application system is provided by GovernmentJobs. If you have problems while applying online, please contact GovernmentJobs Live Applicant Support at (855) 524-5627 between 6:00 AM and 5:00 PM Pacific Time, Monday - Friday. You may also call the City of Oakland Human Resources Management Department during regular business hours at (510) 238-3112 for information; however, we are unable to provide technical support for the online application system. For recruitment-specific questions, please contact Mary Ann Gonzales, Sr. HR Analyst at [email protected]
Employer
City of Oakland
Address
150 Frank H. Ogawa Plaza - 2nd Floor
Oakland, California, 94612
Phone
(510) 238-3112
Website
http://www.oaklandca.gov/
The City of Oakland is committed to the wellbeing of its employees and offers comprehensive health and wellness services along with an array of other benefits for most positions. Benefits may include*:• CalPERS Medical• Dental• Vision• Medical Waiver Plan – Cash-In-Lieu• Flexible Spending Accounts• Commuter Benefits• Group & Supplemental Life Insurance• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)• Guaranteed Ride Home (GRH)• Pension Benefits• Deferred Compensation* Specific benefits may vary depending on the assigned specific bargaining unit. Information regarding most benefits can be reviewed here: Employee Benefits Information Current MOUs may be reviewed here: City of Oakland Labor Agreements
The City of Oakland is an equal opportunity employer that values workforce diversity, inclusion, and equity. Oakland has a long history of activism around issues of justice and equity. Both oppression and this resistance to oppression have shaped the city’s historical roots and the lives of its residents to this day. As public servants in one of the most diverse cities in the nation, we strive to develop employees who understand the harm and impacts of systemic inequity to create lasting, meaningful outcomes for everyone. Oakland strives to establish an environment that embraces the richness of culture, community, and individualism of employees.
Why join the City of Oakland Finance Department?
The City of Oakland is currently recruiting to fill one (1) Accounting Supervisor vacancy in the Controller's Bureau of the Finance Department. The Accounting Supervisor will lead key accounting operations within the City, which may include accounts receivable, notes and loans receivable, grants accounting, and accounts payable, based on departmental needs. The ideal candidate will be highly experienced in governmental accounting with strong technical knowledge of financial accounting functions and demonstrate outstanding management skills.
The Accounting Supervisor plans, organizes, assigns, directs, reviews, and participates in a variety of supervisory tasks involving complex accounting and reporting functions, including grants and accounts receivable; directs the preparation of mandated reports; trains and supervises assigned staff; and performs related duties as assigned. The Accounting Supervisor is a first-line supervisory classification. It is distinguished from the lower-level Accountant III in that the incumbent of the latter may provide either lead direction or supervision and perform complex accounting functions.
Oakland is a vibrant, diverse City undergoing rapid growth. The appeal of living and working in Oakland continues to attract new residents, visitors, and employers, offering opportunities and amenities for City workers as well. The successful candidate for the position of Accounting Supervisor will have an immediate impact on City financial operations and the opportunity to help determine the course of future improvements to the City financial systems.
We are looking for someone who is:
Knowledgeable in governmental accounting principles: You will need to show a solid understanding of GAAP/GASB, accounting operations, financial reporting, and internal controls.
Analytical and detail-oriented: You will be expected to review complex financial data, identify discrepancies, and ensure accuracy and compliance in reporting.
Dedicated to process improvement: You will play a key role in identifying and implementing ways to streamline procedures, enhance efficiency, and strengthen internal controls.
Effective communicator: You will need to communicate financial and accounting concepts to internal stakeholders and external auditors.
A collaborative leader: You will supervise, mentor, and develop a small team that works together to ensure strong internal controls, audit readiness, and compliant financial reporting, so it’s important to foster a positive and inclusive team culture.
Adaptable: You will be expected to effectively manage multiple priorities and adjust to evolving deadlines, systems, and reporting requirements
Ethical and accountable: You will be expected to demonstrate integrity, sound judgment, and a commitment to transparency in public financial management
What you will typically be responsible for:
Overseeing assigned accounting operations, which may include accounts receivable, notes and loans, grants, accounts payable, and month and year-end close activities.
Reviewing and analyzing complex financial transactions and account reconciliations; identifying and resolving discrepancies.
Assisting with preparing, reviewing, and analyzing the Annual Comprehensive Financial Report (ACFR) and Schedule of Expenditures of Federal Awards (SEFA).
Supporting external and internal audits by preparing schedules, responding to auditor inquiries, and ensuring the timely completion of audit requirements.
Supervising, training, and evaluating assigned accounting staff, including performance feedback.
Serving as a key liaison with departments and auditors, overseeing the annual Single Audit.
Identifying opportunities to streamline accounting processes, enhance efficiency, and prepare and maintain procedure manuals.
*
A few reasons you might love this job:
Your work will be impactful and will help ensure transparency, accountability, and trust in how the City manages public funds.
You will have the opportunity to mentor staff and foster a culture of collaboration and continuous learning.
You will play a key role in modernizing and enhancing systems while implementing process improvements to increase efficiency.
You will join a supportive and mission-driven team that celebrates those who take initiative to improve how the City serves its residents.
A few challenges you might face in this job:
You will need to balance leadership and overseeing staff processes while performing hands-on, complex financial analysis and reporting.
You will need to navigate complex compliance requirements and work with a variety of grants and audit requirements that demand precision and strong technical expertise
You will be expected to collaborate across departments by building strong relationships and ensuring alignment among teams with different operational needs and priorities.
You will be expected to manage competing priorities, operational demands, and overlapping deadlines that often require flexibility, organization, and sound judgment.
Competencies Required:
Analyzing & Interpreting Data: Drawing meaning and conclusions from quantitative or qualitative data
Attention to Detail: Focusing on the details of work content, work steps, and final work products
Building & Maintaining Relationships: Establishing rapport and maintaining mutually productive relationships
Critical Thinking: Analytically and logically evaluating information, propositions, and claims
Decision Making: Choosing optimal courses of action in a timely manner
Displaying Ownership and Accountability: Holding self and others accountable for measurable high-quality, timely, and cost-effective results.
Leadership: Guiding and encouraging others to accomplish a common goal
Managing Performance: Ensuring superior individual and group performance
Oral Communication: Engaging effectively in dialogue
Professional & Technical Expertise: Applying technical subject matter to the job
Teamwork: Collaborating with others to achieve shared goals
Minimum Requirements for Application
This recruitment will produce two eligible lists. The restricted list will be for full-time, permanent part-time, or part-time City and Port of Oakland employees who maintain employment for the duration of the recruitment and pass all stages of the recruitment process. The open list will be for all other applicants who pass all stages of the recruitment process.
Any combination of education and experience that is equivalent to the following minimum qualifications may be acceptable.
Education:
A Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in accounting, business administration or related field.
Experience:
Four (4) years of experience in governmental accounting, including one (1) year of lead or supervisory experience.
Desirable Qualifications:
Experience with Annual Comprehensive Financial Report (ACFR) preparation and Schedule of Expenditures of Federal Awards (SEFA) in the public sector is highly desirable.
Possession of a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) license.
Master’s degree in accounting, finance, business administration, public administration, or a related field.
Experience with Oracle Financial System.
Experience working with other public agencies and elected officials.
Supplemental Information
The City of Oakland works with a Civil Service system. Applicants apply online, and HR staff reviews their experience, education, and training listed on the application against the “minimum qualifications” listed for each position.
Candidates who demonstrate that they meet the minimum qualification requirements are then invited to participate in an assessment process (or testing) to measure their knowledge, skills, and abilities in job-related areas.
Candidates who do not demonstrate that they meet the minimum qualification requirements will have an opportunity to request a final review. Candidates must request a final review within 5 business days of being notified that they did not meet the minimum qualifications.
In the final review, candidates may clarify information already provided on their application. No additional work history, education, or certifications will be accepted. Any decisions made during this review process will be final.
For this recruitment, all qualified applicants will be invited to the structured interview (sometimes referred to as an Oral Exam) (weighted 100%), which will be evaluated and rated by subject matter experts. The structured interview will be conducted as a one-way video interview, where you will record your responses to a set of questions. You will have seven days from the time you receive the interview link to complete and submit your video responses. The tentative date of the structured interview is the week of March 9, 2026.
Candidates who pass each stage in the process will be placed on an eligible list. Some candidates may receive extra points, for example, if you are a Veteran with an honorable discharge, or if you are a current City of Oakland resident. If you’re applying to a “restricted” posting and you are eligible as a current City employee, you may also receive additional points for your City service. Extra points are only applied to passing scores, so if you do not pass every element of the testing process, you cannot use extra points to pass.
The City of Oakland reserves the right to modify the selection process and date of examination as necessary to conform to administrative or business necessity. The information contained in this announcement is subject to change and does not constitute either an expressed or implied contract.
What’s in it for you?
Work/Life Balance: 37.5 hour work weeks. This position may be eligible for a hybrid work schedule in accordance with City and Department policies.
15 paid holidays
Vacation: 2 weeks per year minimum with the ability to accrue more depending on public sector years of service
Retirement: CalPERS (California Public Employees’ Retirement System) with a pension formula of 2.5% @ 55 (for Classic CalPERS members) and 2% @ 62 for new CalPERS members. Classic Employees contribute 8% of pre-tax wages. The City of Oakland does not participate in Social Security
Health: The City of Oakland pays the full cost of employee and eligible dependent coverage at the Kaiser rate. Other plans include Anthem, Blue Shield, United Health Care, and other HMO and PPO plans
Dental: Delta Dental full premium for employees and eligible dependents
Vision: VSP full premium for employees and eligible dependents
Sick leave: Employees accrue 12 days per year
Deferred Compensation: 457(b) pre-tax plan and an after-tax ROTH 401(k)plan
Other benefits include a Flexible Spending Account, Wellness Program, Employee Assistance Program, Tuition Reimbursement, Life Insurance up to $200k & Employee Training.
*Benefits described herein do not represent a contract and may be changed without notice. Additional information can be found here:
Applicants are required to submit criminal history information upon request after receiving a conditional offer of employment. If the requested information is not furnished in a timely manner, applicants will not qualify for further consideration and will be removed from the eligible list.
Disaster Service Workers
All employees are designated Disaster Service Workers through state and local law. Employees are required to complete all Disaster Service Worker-related training as assigned and to return to work as ordered in the event of an emergency.
How to Apply
Apply prior to the closing time of the job announcement and allow at least two to three hours to submit your application if you are a new user of the system.
http://agency.governmentjobs.com/oaklandca/default.cfm.
If you do not have access to a computer, there are computer stations available at any City of Oakland Public Library. There are also workstations at the Human Resources Management Department, 150 Frank H. Ogawa Plaza, 2nd Floor, Oakland, CA 94612. Workstations are available during regular business hours (normally 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.).
Our online application system is provided by GovernmentJobs. If you have problems while applying online, please contact GovernmentJobs Live Applicant Support at (855) 524-5627 between 6:00 AM and 5:00 PM Pacific Time, Monday - Friday. You may also call the City of Oakland Human Resources Management Department during regular business hours at (510) 238-3112 for information; however, we are unable to provide technical support for the online application system. For recruitment-specific questions, please contact Mary Ann Gonzales, Sr. HR Analyst at [email protected]
Employer
City of Oakland
Address
150 Frank H. Ogawa Plaza - 2nd Floor
Oakland, California, 94612
Phone
(510) 238-3112
Website
http://www.oaklandca.gov/
The City of Oakland is committed to the wellbeing of its employees and offers comprehensive health and wellness services along with an array of other benefits for most positions. Benefits may include*:• CalPERS Medical• Dental• Vision• Medical Waiver Plan – Cash-In-Lieu• Flexible Spending Accounts• Commuter Benefits• Group & Supplemental Life Insurance• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)• Guaranteed Ride Home (GRH)• Pension Benefits• Deferred Compensation* Specific benefits may vary depending on the assigned specific bargaining unit. Information regarding most benefits can be reviewed here: Employee Benefits Information Current MOUs may be reviewed here: City of Oakland Labor Agreements