STATE ACCOUNTANT: FINANCIAL ACCOUNTING

The Western Cape Mobility Department is seeking a suitably qualified and experienced State Accountant to join its Financial Accounting unit. This role is central to ensuring the department’s financial operations run efficiently and in line with public service regulations. The successful candidate will be responsible for delivering expenditure and payment services, maintaining accurate bookkeeping and financial reporting, managing credit control, and undertaking managerial or supervisory functions within the team. This is a demanding position that requires a sound understanding of the legislative framework governing the public service, including the Public Finance Management Act, National Treasury Regulations, Provincial Treasury Instructions, and related financial policies and prescripts.

Applicants must possess an appropriate three-year National Diploma or Bachelor’s degree, or an equivalent or higher qualification, together with at least one year of relevant experience in a financial accounting or related environment. The role demands a strong working knowledge of departmental accounting services, financial functions and practices, and the ability to capture data, operate computers, and collate financial statistics. Familiarity with general information support systems such as PERSAL, LOGIS and BAS is essential, as is knowledge of public service procedures, processes and systems, project management, and procurement and tendering processes. The ideal candidate will demonstrate proven computer literacy, excellent written and verbal communication, and strong accounting, finance and audit skills. Additional competencies include economic, financial and statistical analysis, legal administration, planning and organising, problem-solving, report-writing, record-keeping, and interpersonal relations. Flexibility, teamwork, accuracy, an aptitude for figures, and the ability to perform routine tasks are also important, along with the capacity to operate office equipment and work under pressure. The role may require working irregular hours, meeting tight deadlines, and travelling away from the office on a regular basis.

In terms of day-to-day responsibilities, the State Accountant will provide effective and efficient expenditure and payment services, ensuring that all financial transactions are processed correctly and in compliance with applicable regulations. The post also involves providing comprehensive bookkeeping and financial reporting services, which includes preparing financial statements and reports for management. Credit control services form another key area of responsibility, requiring the post holder to monitor and manage outstanding debts and ensure that revenue is collected timeously. Furthermore, the position carries managerial and supervisory functions, meaning the incumbent will be expected to oversee junior staff, allocate work, and ensure that the team meets its objectives.

Shortlisted candidates should note that interviews will be scheduled by the department, and they will be required to submit duly completed and signed vetting and supporting documentation within a specified timeframe prior to the interview. Failure to do so without reasonable justification may result in disqualification from the process. All shortlisted candidates will also undergo two pre-entry assessments: a practical exercise to determine suitability based on the technical and generic requirements of the post, and an integrity assessment to evaluate ethical conduct. The selection process will be guided by the employment equity targets of the department. By applying, candidates consent to the Western Cape Government contacting previous employers or managers for employment references, including enquiries relating to disciplinary records and reasons for leaving. Applications must be submitted online before the closing date, and technical support is available during business hours for those experiencing difficulties with the online application system.