The work you'll do is more than just a job.

At the State of Minnesota, employees play a critical role in developing policies, providing essential services, and working to improve the well-being and quality of life for all Minnesotans. The State of Minnesota is committed to equity and inclusion, and invests in employees by providing benefits, support resources, and training and development opportunities.

Job Summary

Teachers Retirement Association (TRA) has been providing pension coverage to Minnesota educators for decades, with a mission to help members and their beneficiaries plan for an independent and financially secure retirement. We are currently seeking job candidates with a background in general ledger accounting, payroll processing, and financial reporting for our Accounting Officer role.

The Accounting Officer is responsible for processing bi-weekly TRA employee payroll, payroll reporting, and business expenses. The incumbent assists in preparing supporting work papers, maintaining the agency’s general ledger, and drafting annual financial statements, as requested. Additionally, the role provides agency-wide training and support on fiscal matters, assists the Accounting Director with the Annual Comprehensive Financial Report (ACFR) and Governmental Accounting Standards Board (GASB) 67/68 reporting, and performs other duties in support of the Accounting Department, Finance Division, and the Agency.

This position is located in our St. Paul, Minnesota office and may require occasional travel, up to 10%. This position may be eligible for a work schedule that includes some teleworking.

TRA prioritizes work-life balance for our employees and may request, only on occasion, that staff work overtime and/or flex their time in order to complete critical projects or meet important deadlines. Typically, full-time, non-exempt employees at TRA work a 40-hour work week.

Minimum Qualifications

Two (2) years of experience providing administrative support that focuses on payroll and/or accounting functions.

One (1) year of entry-level accounting and/or payroll work experience.

A Bachelor’s degree in Business/Public Administration, Accounting, Finance, Math, Economics, or a related field.

Education and/or experience must demonstrate the following:

Foundational understanding of Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP).
Experience and/or knowledge with payroll processing and principles.
Ability to interpret state and federal labor laws and department policies relating to payroll matters.
Ability to analyze, interpret, reconcile, and audit financial data.
Ability to diagnose problems and recommend solutions for process improvement purposes.
Ability to plan, organize, and successfully manage competing priorities.
Ability to train or explain complex financial concepts to a variety of audiences.
Strong oral, written, and interpersonal skills.
Proficiency in using Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook, Cisco Webex, and/or equivalent software packages.

Successful candidates must also be able to secure their own transportation for in-state business travel and/or conferences.

Preferred Qualifications

A Bachelor’s degree and/or an Advanced degree in Business/Public Administration, Accounting, Finance, Math, Economics, or a related field.

Professional certifications, such as the Fundamental Payroll Certification (FPC) or Certified Payroll Professional (CPP).

Experience working with State of Minnesota government financial systems, such as SWIFT and SEMA4, or related payroll/financial systems and/or software.

Experience working in various accounting functions, such as Payroll, Accounts Payable, and/or Accounts Receivable, etc.

Experience working for a public pension fund or private financial services institution.

Experience with financial reporting processes.

Physical Requirements

This position requires occasional transporting of articles such as file folders, ledgers and/or small tools. May be required to move or maintain a stationary position for long periods of time.

Additional Requirements

**Successful candidates must pass past-employer reference checks and a criminal background check.**

It is the policy of TRA that all finalist(s) submit to a background check prior to employment. The background check may consist of the following components:

State of Minnesota state government employment records check (applies to current and past State of Minnesota state government employees only)
Criminal History Check
Employment Reference Check
Social Security and Address Verification
Education Verification
Driver's License Check

How to Apply

Visit the MN Careers webpage: http://www.mn.gov/careers and search using the Job ID #94995. If you have questions about applying for jobs, contact the Careers Help Desk at 651-259-3637 or email careers@state.mn.us. For additional information about the application process, go to http://www.mn.gov/careers.

Contact

If you have questions about this position, or are an individual with a disability and need to request an accommodation for a scheduled interview, contact Justin Johnson at jjohnson@minnesotatra.org.

To receive consideration as a Connect 700 Program applicant, apply online, email the Job ID#, the Working Title and your valid Proof of Eligibility Certificate by the closing date to Justin Johnson at jjohnson@minnesotatra.org.

Working together to improve the state we love.

What do Minnesota's State employees have in common?

A sense of purpose in their work
Connection with their coworkers and communities
Opportunities for personal and professional growth

Benefits

As an employee, you'll have access to one of the most affordable health insurance plans in Minnesota, along with other benefits to help you and your family be well.

Your benefits may include:

Paid vacation and sick leave
12 paid holidays each year
Low-cost medical, dental, vision, and prescription drug plans
Fertility care, including IVF
Diabetes care
Dental and orthodontic care for adults and children
6 weeks paid leave for parents of newborn or newly adopted children
Pension plan that provides income when you retire (after working at least three years)
Employer paid life insurance to provide support for your family in the event of death
Short-term and long-term disability insurance that can provide income if you are unable to work due to illness or injury
Tax-free expense accounts for health, dental, and dependent care
Resources that provide support and promote physical, emotional, social, and financial well-being

Support to help you reach your career goals:

Training, classes, and professional development
Federal Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program (Some positions may qualify for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program. For more information, visit the Federal Student Aid website at studentaid.gov)

Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for work/life support:

A voluntary confidential program that helps employees and their families with life challenges that may impact overall health, personal well-being, or job performance
Common sources of stress can be addressed through the EAP: mental health, relationship challenges (personal and work), grief and loss, finances, and legal issues
Daily Living/Convenience Services: Chore services, home repair, trip planning, child/elder care

Programs, resources and benefits eligibility varies based on type of employment, agency, funding availability, union/collective bargaining agreement, location, and length of service with the State of Minnesota.

Teachers Retirement Association also offers free ramp parking at our St. Paul Office location.

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYERS

Minnesota state agencies are equal opportunity, affirmative action, and veteran-friendly employers. State agencies are committed to creating a workforce that reflects the diversity of the state and strongly encourages persons of color and Indigenous communities, members of the LGBTQIA2S+ community, individuals with disabilities, women, and veterans to apply. The varied experiences and perspectives of employees strengthen the work we do together and our ability to best serve Minnesotans.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, and disabilities related to pregnancy or childbirth), gender identity, gender expression, marital status, familial status, age, sexual orientation, status regarding public assistance, disability, veteran status or activity in a local Human Rights Commission or any other characteristic protected by law.

APPLICANTS WITH DISABILITIES

Minnesota state agencies make reasonable accommodations to their employees and applicants with disabilities. If you have a disability and need assistance in searching or applying for jobs with the State of Minnesota, call the Careers Help Desk at 651-259-3637 or email careers@state.mn.us and let us know the support you need.

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