Finance Manager-Clerk

Overview

City of Red Oak, Iowa – City Finance Manager-Clerk

The City of Red Oak is seeking an experienced Accounting Professional to serve as City Finance Manager-Clerk. This full-time position plays a key leadership role in managing the City's finances and overseeing the administrative operations of City Hall.

Strong accounting and financial management skills are essential — including general ledger, bank reconciliations, accounts payable/receivable, billing, payroll, and financial reporting. Clerk and administrative functions can be learned on the job, but solid accounting ability is required from day one. Experience in the public sector or a non-profit setting is a plus.

Compensation & Benefits:

• Minimum starting salary: $55,000 (may be higher depending on qualifications)
• Excellent benefits package, including IPERS retirement, health, dental, and vision insurance, as well as paid sick leave, vacation, holidays, and more.

Position open until filled; first review of applications is November 4, 2025.

To apply, submit a cover letter, resume, and completed City application to:

Lisa A. Kotter, City Administrator

Email:

Or deliver to: City Hall, 601 N. 6th Street, Red Oak, IA 51566

Responsibilities

Position Summary

Appointed by the City Council, the City Finance Manager-Clerk works under the direction of the City Administrator to oversee the City's financial operations and the administrative activities of the Clerk's Office. This position is responsible for financial management, including general ledger, bank reconciliations, accounts payable/receivable, utility billing, payroll, and preparation of financial reports. The City Finance Manager-Clerk supervises a staff of up to four who handle day-to-day clerical and accounting tasks. The position also fulfills all statutory Clerk responsibilities, including compliance with open meetings and records laws, elections, licensing, and records management.

Essential Job DutiesFinancial Management & Accounting

· Oversees and/or completes all accounting functions, including general ledger, bank reconciliations, accounts payable, accounts receivable, and utility billing.

· Manages and supervises a staff of up to four who perform clerical and accounting functions.

· Prepares monthly, quarterly, and annual financial reports in compliance with State and City requirements.

· Completes or oversees preparation of the City's required annual financial report, street finance report, debt report, and urban renewal report for the State of Iowa.

· Coordinates and oversees the annual audit process and works with auditors to provide required financial documentation.

· Works in Coordination with the Deputy Clerk that prepares payroll for all City employees, including federal and state withholding, contributions, garnishments, and required tax filings.

· Ensures timely preparation and submission of federal and state tax reports.

· Monitors cash flow, investments, and debt service obligations.

· Oversees purchasing procedures and contracts for financial compliance.

City Clerk Functions

· Prepares and publishes City Council agendas, packets, and minutes.

· Publishes notices of meetings, hearings, and official actions in compliance with open meetings and records laws.

· Maintains City ordinances, codes, contracts, licenses, and agreements.

· Processes and issues liquor, beer, and tobacco licenses.

· Maintains City records and manages retention, archiving, and disposal in accordance with law.

· Serves as election official in coordination with State and County requirements.

· Prepares and certifies special assessments to the County.

· Receives and opens City bids.

· Acts as records custodian for the City, ensuring compliance with public records requests.

· Provides oversight of daily City Hall operations.

· Completes all other duties as assigned.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

· Strong knowledge of accounting principles and municipal finance.

· Proficiency in financial software, Microsoft Excel, and other office applications.

· Ability to direct, train, and supervise office staff.

· Understanding of Iowa Code provisions on open meetings, public records, elections, and licensing.

· Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build positive working relationships with staff, elected officials, and the public.

· Ability to prepare accurate financial and administrative reports for Council, auditors, and regulatory bodies.

Education and Experience

· Required: Two- or four-year degree in Accounting, Finance, Business, or closely related field; or equivalent combination of education and relevant job experience in governmental or business accounting.

· Prior experience with general ledger, reconciliations, payroll, accounts payable/receivable, and financial reporting required.

· Experience in preparing state-required reports such as the annual financial report, street finance report, debt report, and urban renewal report is highly desirable.

· Previous supervisory experience preferred.

· Municipal government experience is ideal and strongly preferred.

· Certified Municipal Clerk (CMC) designation or ability to obtain is highly desirable.

· Must be bondable.

· Notary Public (or ability to obtain within six months).

· Must possess and maintain a valid driver's license.

· Must successfully pass a criminal and financial background check.

Work Environment

Work is primarily performed in an office setting. Position involves supervision, deadline-driven financial reporting, and frequent interaction with the public, City staff, and elected officials.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: From $55,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• Dental insurance
• Flexible spending account
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Parental leave
• Professional development assistance
• Vision insurance

Work Location: In person