Performs skilled professional work for the Finance Department requiring a strong understanding of local government budgeting, capital planning, and financial analysis. Position is responsible for coordinating the Town’s annual operating and capital budgets, supporting long-term financial planning, managing debt-related activities, and providing financial forecasting, reporting, and analytical support to departments and executive leadership. An employee in this class performs independent and skilled professional work in developing, administering, and monitoring the Town’s operating and capital budgets. The work includes coordinating the annual budget process; developing and maintaining the Capital Improvement Plan (CIP); assisting with debt issuance and compliance; performing financial forecasting and trend analysis; and supporting departments with budget development and management.
The position requires the ability to analyze complex financial data, identify trends, and provide strategic recommendations to ensure fiscal sustainability. The employee regularly collaborates with department heads, senior leadership, and external partners. Work involves sound judgment, initiative, and the ability to communicate financial information clearly to both technical and non-technical audiences. The work is performed with considerable independence and is reviewed by the Finance Director or designee through conferences, reports, and evaluation of results achieved.
- Coordinates development of the Town’s annual operating budget; prepares budget instructions, timelines, and supporting materials; reviews departmental requests for accuracy, completeness, and alignment with organizational priorities; and compiles recommended budget documents.
- Facilitates department budget meetings; provides guidance and training to departments on budget preparation, financial policies, and system use; and assists departments in identifying funding needs, cost drivers, and efficiencies.
- Develops and maintains the Town’s Capital Improvement Plan (CIP); collaborates with departments to identify, prioritize, and schedule capital projects; evaluates funding strategies; and ensures alignment with long-term financial plans.
- Performs long-range financial planning, including multi-year revenue and expenditure forecasts; analyzes trends, economic indicators, and operational impacts to support decision-making.
- Monitors budget-to-actual performance throughout the fiscal year; identifies variances, potential overruns, and emerging issues; and provides recommendations for corrective actions.
- Prepares periodic financial reports, dashboards, and presentations for executive leadership, governing board, and departments; communicates key financial insights, trends, and risks.
- Supports and monitors the Town’s debt management program, including debt issuance, tracking, compliance, and reporting.
- Assists in the development and monitoring of financial policies, including fund balance targets, budget amendments, and capital financing strategies.
- Conducts financial and operational analyses for special projects, including cost-benefit analyses, program evaluations, and funding scenarios.
- Assists with monitoring internal controls related to budgetary compliance and financial policies.
- Supports preparation of financial schedules and documentation for the annual audit and Annual Comprehensive Financial Report (ACFR).
- Drafts budget ordinances, amendments, resolutions, and related documents for Board consideration.
- Maintains financial models, databases, and reporting tools to enhance budgeting and forecasting capabilities.
- Promotes transparency and accountability by improving budget communication materials for internal and public use.
- Performs related duties as assigned to meet organizational needs.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities- Considerable knowledge of principles and practices of governmental budgeting, public finance, and financial planning.
- Considerable knowledge of capital improvement planning and long-term financial forecasting.
- Working knowledge of debt management practices, municipal financing, and related compliance requirements.
- Ability to analyze financial data, identify trends, and develop actionable recommendations.
- Ability to prepare clear, concise, and comprehensive financial reports and presentations.
- Ability to plan, organize, and manage multiple projects and deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
- Ability to communicate effectively in oral and written forms, including explaining financial concepts to non-financial staff.
- Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with department heads, employees, auditors, and external stakeholders.
- Strong proficiency in computer software systems, including word processing, spreadsheets, enterprise ERP financial software, data analysis tools, and other system which support the Town’s financial information.
- Ability to exercise sound judgment and make independent decisions within established policies and guidelines.
- Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university with major coursework in Finance, Accounting, Public Administration, Economics, or related field; three to five (3–5) years of experience in governmental budgeting, financial analysis, or public sector finance; or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
- Experience with capital planning, financial forecasting, and municipal budgeting is preferred.
- Possession of a valid North Carolina Driver’s License.
Physical Requirements- Must be able to physically perform the basic life operational support functions of climbing, balancing, stooping, kneeling, crouching, crawling, reaching, walking, pushing, pulling, fingering, grasping, feeling, talking, hearing and repetitive motions.
- Must be able to perform sedentary work, exerting up to 10 pounds of force occasionally and/or a negligible amount of force frequently or constantly to lift, carry, push, pull, or otherwise move objects.
- Worker must possess the visual acuity to prepare and analyze data and spreadsheets, operate a computer terminal, and review detailed financial information.
- Work is primarily performed in an office environment.
Additional Education OpportunitiesThe following certifications provide a great benefit to the Town and the employee of this position. If obtained after hired, the below certifications will reflect in a 5% salary increase each:
- Certified Local Government Budget Officer (CLGBO)
- Certified Local Government Finance Officer (CLGFO)
FLSA Status: Exempt
