Technical Accounting Research, Sr Accountant II

Job Summary:

This individual works as part of a collaborative team to monitor and report on technical developments in the authoritative accounting guidance, direct the implementation of new accounting pronouncements, and analyze intermediate to complex business transactions to support the development of GAAP compliant financial statements and external financial reporting. Our customer base is diverse and consists of four state-regulated natural gas utilities, an unregulated gas marketing services organization, a portfolio of equity investments in gas pipeline entities, and other components of the shared services organization of which we are a part (e.g., plant and utility accounting, financial reporting, corporate accounting, budget/financial planning). The position will also be required to document background information, analysis, and accounting determinations on specific transactions or issues in formal technical accounting memos.

Additionally, position will include independent auditor interaction (preparation/review of technical recommendations and face-to-face communication) and at times assist in resolving matters pertaining to quarterly and annual SEC financial filings.  The position will also prepare and update formal accounting policy and procedure modules as authoritative guidance and internal policy changes required.

Work environment is 4 days on-site.

Job Responsibilities & Accountabilities by Competency

Functional Expertise:

• Determines and directs the appropriate accounting (recording) and/or disclosure for complex business transactions or the implementation of accounting rules across the Southern Company Gas organization
• Prepares formal written documentation of analysis, conclusions and support for conclusions
• May prepare and/or review data requests, reports and schedules for regulatory agencies (state public utility commissions, etc.)
• Assists in coordinating with Southern Company Accounting Research Team in implementation of new accounting guidance and/or internal policies
• Participates in and/or leads special projects, such as the implementation of new accounting pronouncements or policies across the organization, often dealing directly with executives in various business units

Business Acumen:

• Reviews and analyzes financial information relating to various specialized accounting areas (e.g., leases, asset retirement obligations in plant, construction contracts, etc.); uses professional judgment and expertise to interpret complex contracts, legal documents, and accounting literature, making recommendations to senior management, and communicating positions to internal and independent auditors.
• Well-developed professional expertise and decision-making abilities.
• Demonstrated ability to prioritize and manage multiple responsibilities.
• Demonstrated ability to identify errors, problems and opportunities (i.e. a continuous improvement in mindset)
• Demonstrated analytical and problem-solving skills.

Engagement:

• Works with customers (internal and external) to resolve problems; answers questions, and provides accounting guidance and recommendations; strong desire to serve others and make their jobs easier or more effective; responds to requests quickly
• Committed to continuous development and enhancement of speaking and writing skills to communicate often complex and nuanced accounting guidance and/or contractual provisions to employees at all levels of the organization in a clear and effective manner
• Collaborates and builds effective relationships with stakeholders.
• Coordinates cross-functional technical review and implementation teams.
• Willingness to work occasional overtime as necessary to serve our customers in a timely manner; is self-motivated and highly accountable.

Driving Results:

• Responsible for monitoring progress against goals/deliverables; holds self and other accountable for results.
• Follows organizational policies and procedures.
• Provides continuous process improvement suggestions and may oversee implementing them.

Qualifications:

• Education, Certifications/Licenses:

Required:

• BA/BS degree in accounting or equivalent academic education or experience

Preferred:

• Certified Public Accountant (CPA)
• Master’s degree with concentration or major in accounting

Work Experience:

Required:

• Minimum 3 years of experience with increasing responsibility in corporate accounting, financial reporting, accounting research, public accounting (audit o