BUDGET SPECIALIST

SUMMARY:

The Budget Specialist is responsible for preparing, monitoring, and maintaining program operating budgets and/or biennial budgets. This position is governed by state and federal laws and institution policy.

TYPICAL FUNCTIONS:

Researches previous year’s expenditures and expenditure levels of similar programs and coordinates with unit personnel to determine staffing levels and equipment needs to develop annual program budgets or biennial budgets.

Compiles program budget data onto worksheets, including costs of salaries and benefits, supplies, staff travel and training, and other operating budget information and submits to supervisor for review and approval.

Monitors program and/or operating budgets by assigning accounting codes to be used when reporting allowable expenditures and reviewing position utilization reports to ensure proper time and expenditure reporting by personnel in assigned programs.

Identifies cost accounting errors by examining time distribution reports, prepares correct entries for input, and submits to supervisor for approval.

Prepares monthly and quarterly financial budgetary reports to identify and avoid potential problems and to comply with state and federal rules and regulations.

Attends and participates in monthly staff meetings to explain financial conditions, identify noticeable trends, and forecast program expenditures.

May write time distribution and reporting procedures for assigned programs to submit to supervisor for review, approval, and inclusion in manual.

Performs other duties as assigned.

KNOWLEDGE, ABILITIES, AND SKILLS:

Knowledge of the principles and practices of accounting. Knowledge of state budget and accounting procedures. Ability to prepare and present oral and written financial information and reports.

Ability to research and analyze programs and fiscal records, determine needs, and make recommendations. Ability to interpret and apply budgetary and fiscal policies and procedures.

MINIMUM EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE:

The formal education equivalent of a bachelor’s degree in accounting, business administration, or a related field; plus one year of experience involving accounting and budgetary activities.

Additional requirements determined by the agency for recruiting purposes require review and approval by the Arkansas Division of Higher Education.

OTHER JOB RELATED EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE MAY BE SUBSTITUTED FOR ALL OR PART OF THESE BASIC REQUIREMENTS, EXCEPT FOR CERTIFICATION OR LICENSURE REQUIREMENTS, UPON APPROVAL OF THE QUALIFICATIONS REVIEW COMMITTEE.