The Department of Developmental Services (DDS) Central/West Region is seeking qualified candidates for the Accountant I – Purchaser role. This position establishes and reviews encumbrances necessary for daily/monthly/annual payment activity, reviews for financial accuracy and makes modifications and corrections as needed. This position works with other DDS agency personnel and outside vendor agencies by telephone, in writing and/or in person to resolve accounting discrepancies and documentation for various reports and/or projects and purchases made. The Purchaser also prepares financial statements and reports while maintaining accounts and records such as receipt registers, budgetary controls, etc. to reflect the financial status of the Department. The Purchaser will meet with appropriate managers to review data, as needed. The Purchaser reconciles financial documents (audits), records, transactions, and statements to ensure conformance with established Commonwealth policy and standards.

The key function of the Purchaser is to place orders, review documents, appropriation, authorizations, and/or adjust appropriate balances. In addition, the Purchaser will provide customer service for the needs of the individuals we serve in group homes, as well as the Area Office staff. The Purchaser provides technical assistance and training to employees, vendors, department heads, budget managers, state agencies, auditors and the general public to ensure compliance with agency laws, rules and regulations. This position is responsible for interpreting state regulations, guidelines, and procedures for financial operations and accounting systems; conferring with suppliers of goods and/or providers of services and their employees to explain state/agency rules, policies and accounting procedures governing payment and related financial transactions, billing correctly, calculated sales tax and late fees. This requires the incumbent to be knowledgeable of the statewide purchasing and contract updates.

The Purchaser posts for “bid” solicitation to COMMBUYS, accepts bids and hosts bidder’s conferences. The Purchaser will examine and make contract awards and agreement proposals based on compliance with state laws, rules and regulations by assigning point value to specific RFR (Request for Response) services and issues award/rejection letters. The Purchaser will ensure compliance with agencies accounting policies and procedures including 801 CMR (Code of Massachusetts Regulations) to ensure adherence to applicable laws, rules and regulations of the Commonwealth.

The Purchaser analyzes project expenditure patterns in order to make recommendations or take appropriate action to control spending based on budget. This position also implements and/or reviews accounting procedures consistent with agency laws, rules and regulations and generally accepted accounting to ensure consistency of accounting activities and to establish standards for performance. The Purchaser will utilize electronic data processing accounting systems (MMARS, Excel, Access, and Word) to maintain effective information storage and retrieval, and to simplify manual accounting procedures. This position performs related duties such as maintaining payment records; preparing receipt vouchers, contracts and purchase requisitions; attending staff meetings and training sessions; responding to inquiries regarding assigned agency functions; reviewing and/or approving invoices for payment; and conferring with others concerning accounting related matters.

About the Agency:

The Department of Developmental Services is dedicated to creating, in partnership with others, innovative and genuine opportunities for individuals with intellectual disabilities to participate fully and meaningfully in, and contribute to, their communities as valued members.

Pre-Offer Process:

Education and license/certification information provided by the selected candidate(s) is subject to the Massachusetts Public Record Law and may be published on the Commonwealth's website.

• Education, licensure and certifications will be verified in accordance with the Human Resources Division's Hiring Guidelines.

Recommended candidates must successfully complete pre-employment screening which includes:

• Disabled Persons Protection Commission (DPPC) Abuse Registry Search: https://www.mass.gov/info-details/dppc-abuser-registry
• Criminal background check (CORI) by regulations set forth by the Executive Office of Health and Human Services. http://www.mass.gov/hhs/cori
• National Background Checks, Chapter 234 of the Acts of 2014, conduct fingerprint-based check.
• https://www.mass.gov/lists/dds-fingerprint-background-checks

If you require assistance with the application/interview process and would like to request an ADA accommodation, please click on the link and complete the Reasonable Accommodation Online Request Form.

For technical help with MassCareers, including logging into your profile and/or resetting your password, please call the Employee Service Center at 617-979-8500 for assistance.

For questions concerning the information in this requisition, please contact Human Resources at 857-262-6378.

• Education toward such a degree will be prorated on the basis of the proportion of the requirements actually completed.

Comprehensive Benefits

When you embark on a career with the Commonwealth, you are offered an outstanding suite of employee benefits that add to the overall value of your compensation package. We take pride in providing a work experience that supports you, your loved ones, and your future.

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