Accountant 2

The Montana Department of Agriculture is accepting applications for an Accountant II, located in Helena, MT. Recruitment is open until filled with first review of candidates September 8, 2026..

The mission of the Department of Agriculture is Serving Montana Agriculture and growing prosperity under the Big Sky.

Job Overview:
This position performs professional-level accounting work with primary responsibility for the Department’s federal awards and related grant accounting activities. The position requires extensive knowledge of SABHRS, Excel, governmental accounting principles, federal grant requirements, and Department fiscal procedures.

The accountant reviews and approves vouchers, journals, incoming wires and grant payments; monitors grant expenditures and revenues; draws federal funds; submits required federal financial reports; and reconciles federal grant activity to SABHRS; provides financial reporting and support for the hail insurance program. The position reviews financial transactions and supporting documentation to ensure costs are accurately recorded, allowable, allocable, reasonable, adequately supported, and consistent with applicable federal award terms, state requirements, Department policy, and accounting standards.

The incumbent provides professional fiscal support to Department programs by establishing, evaluating, and maintaining accounting systems, internal controls, procedures, and records that ensure the accurate and efficient processing of business transactions and financial reporting activities. The position prepares financial, budget, reimbursement, reconciliation, and compliance reports; researches and resolves accounting discrepancies; supports monitoring and audit activities; and provides technical assistance to program staff and other financial contacts regarding grant-related fiscal requirements.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
• Knowledge of the concepts and theories of accounting, financial management, budget development and administration.
• Knowledge of generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP) as they relate to governmental entities.
• Knowledge of auditing procedures and processes.
• A high degree of analytical skills, including accounting analysis and a generally high level of math skills.
• Skills in budgeting, program management, and plan implementation.
• Knowledge of standard MS Office and specialized accounting software applications (e.g., SABHRS, IBARS).
• Familiarize with department programs functions quickly.
• Ability to prioritize and balance workload in order to meet deadlines.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships.

Minimum Qualifications:
• Bachelor’s degree in accounting. Or 4 years of related accounting experience in lieu of a degree.
• Two years of accounting experience.
• Alternate combinations of related experience or education may be considered. Such as an associate’s degree in accounting and 3 years of related accounting experience; OR 5 years of related accounting experience.

E-Verif y: This agency is participating in E-Verify to confirm employment eligibility. After accepting a job offer and completing Form I-9, your information will be submitted to the Department of Homeland Security and Social Security Administration for verification. For more information about E-Verify, please visit the E-Verify website found here, https://www.e-verify.gov/

Applicant Pool Statement: If another department vacancy occurs in this job title within six months, the same applicant pool may be used for the selection. Training Assignment: This agency may use a training assignment. Employees in training assignments may be paid below the base pay established by the agency pay rules. Conditions of the training assignment will be stated in writing at the time of hire.

Salary: $

69,000.00 - 73,000.00 Yearly Telework Eligibility: Telework Eligible (Full-time telework is not available. Telework schedule must be supervisor approved.) Benefits Package Eligibility: Health Insurance, Paid Leave & Holidays, Retirement Plan

Number of Openings

1 Employee Status: Regular Schedule: Full-Time

Job Type

Standard

Shift

Day Job

Travel

No

Primary Location

Helena Agency: Department of Agriculture Union: Montana Federation of Public Employees

Posting Date

Sep 1, 2026, 1:05:42 PM

Closing Date (based on your computer's timezone)

Ongoing

Required Application Materials: Cover Letter, Resume

Contact Name: Traci Merzlak | Contact Email: Traci.merzlak@mt.gov | Contact Phone: 406-444-3145 Anyone who needs to request a reasonable accommodation in the application or hiring process should contact the HR staff identified on the job listing or by dialing the Montana Relay at 711. Montana Job Service Offices also offer services including assistance with submitting an online application.

State government does not discriminate based on race, color, national origin, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, childbirth or medical conditions related to pregnancy or childbirth, age, physical or mental disability, genetic information, marital status, creed, political beliefs or affiliation, veteran status, military service, retaliation, or any other factor not related to merit and qualifications of an employee or applicant.