Fiscal Compliance Officer - City of North Adams - North Adams

Position Summary

The Fiscal Compliance Officer in the Office of Community Development is responsible for providing comprehensive administrative, financial, and programmatic support to ensure the efficient operation of departmental functions. This position plays a key role in grant management, financial oversight, and regulatory compliance, while also supporting property management and daily office operations.

The ideal candidate demonstrates strong attention to detail, excellent organizational skills, and the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced municipal environment. This role involves regular interaction with the general public and requires professionalism, tact, sensitivity, and a collaborative approach when working with colleagues, residents, community groups, and business owners.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

The essential functions listed below are illustrative of the types of work performed. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required. Other related duties may be assigned.

Grant & Financial Administration

• Process drawdowns for Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funds and maintain accurate and compliant grant documentation.
• Review and proof certified payroll submissions to ensure compliance with project and regulatory requirements.
• Prepare financial records, documentation, and supporting materials for annual municipal and program audits.
• Perform monthly bank reconciliations to ensure monitored accounts are balanced and discrepancies are resolved.
• Record and track deposits of fees and payables in coordination with the Town Treasurer and Auditor.
• Process warrants for multiple properties and programs.
• Assist in the preparation of documentation for periodic program audits and the annual municipal audit.
• Support ongoing financial tracking and reporting for departmental grants and projects.

Program & Property Support

• Oversee and administer leases and Memorandums of Understanding (MOUs) for certain municipal properties.
• Maintain accurate records related to property agreements and ensure timely renewals or updates.
• Assist with the administrative oversight of department-managed properties and related programs.

Office & Administrative Support

• Provide front-line customer service, including answering and directing phone calls and assisting walk-in visitors.
• Process and ensure accuracy of various applications, permits, and related documentation.
• Facilitate advertisements and mailings for public meetings and hearings in accordance with legal requirements.
• Organize and maintain both physical and digital records to ensure accessibility, compliance, and adherence to internal procedures.
• Provide general administrative support, including scanning, filing, correspondence, and daily operational assistance.

Additional Responsibilities

• Perform other duties as assigned by the supervisor to support departmental goals and operations.

Qualifications

Education and Experience

• Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in accounting, finance, public administration, business administration, or a related field preferred.
• Two (2) to five (5) years of progressively responsible experience in municipal finance, grant administration, accounting, or office administration, preferably in a community development or public sector setting.
• Experience with CDBG or other federally funded programs strongly preferred.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Knowledge of municipal accounting practices and grant compliance requirements.
• Ability to interpret and apply federal, state, and local regulations.
• Strong organizational skills with exceptional attention to detail and accuracy.
• Proficiency in financial software and Microsoft Office applications.
• Ability to manage multiple tasks and meet deadlines with minimal supervision.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to exercise sound judgment, discretion, and confidentiality.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with staff, officials, residents, and external stakeholders.

Work Conditions and Physical Requirements

• This position is performed in a professional office environment and is primarily desk-based. Regular on-site attendance during standard business hours is required; remote work is not available for this role.
• The position is largely sedentary and involves extended periods of sitting and computer use. Occasional standing, walking, bending, and reaching may be required. Duties include handling files and documents, operating standard office equipment, and opening filing cabinets. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is occasionally required to sit; stand; walk; use hands to finger, handle, feel, or operate objects, tools, or controls; and reach with hands and arms. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds.

Benefits

• Competitive salary based on experience and qualifications
• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• Retirement plan through the Massachusetts Public Employees Retirement System (PERS)
• Paid time off, including vacation, sick leave, and holidays