Position Summary
Under general supervision of the Director of Fiscal Services, plans, coordinates, and manages core internal business operations of the County Office of Education. Provides managerial and technical leadership for internal accounting, budgeting, purchasing, accounts payable, and accounts receivable functions; oversees the preparation and maintenance of financial records, budgetary controls, and internal financial reporting; and supports compliance with applicable laws, regulations, and accounting standards.
The Internal Business Manager supports the annual independent financial audit by coordinating schedules, preparing documentation, and providing required records and analysis related to internal business operations. The position serves as a key technical resource to County Office programs and departments; supports leadership decision‑making through analysis, reporting, and system oversight; and collaborates closely with other managers within Fiscal Services. Fiscal data and analysis are provided in support of labor negotiations and other organizational initiatives.
Distinguishing Characteristics
This is a management‑level position responsible for the effective operation and oversight of internal business services for the County Office of Education. The role requires broad knowledge of public‑sector finance, strong supervisory skills, and the ability to manage complex workflows while maintaining accuracy, compliance, and professionalism. Success in this position depends on effective communication, sound judgment, problem‑solving, and the ability to collaborate across departments while meeting established timelines and requirements.
The position may require occasional work outside of normal business hours during peak operational periods.
Supervision Received and Exercised
Supervision Received:
Under general supervision of the Director of Fiscal Services.
Supervision Executed:
Plans, assigns, supervises, reviews, and evaluates the work of assigned internal business services staff involved in budgeting, purchasing, accounts payable, and accounts receivable operations; provides training and professional guidance to fiscal positions throughout the organization.
Examples of Duties and Responsibilities
- Supervise the development, maintenance, and monitoring of the County Office budget to ensure alignment with adopted plans and fiscal policies.
- Review, analyze, and verify fiscal data for County Office programs, including revenue projections, expenditure trends, and variance analysis.
- Coordinate with internal divisions and program leadership regarding budget development, monitoring, and required adjustments.
- Provide fiscal analysis, cost projections, and supporting documentation to leadership, including information used in labor negotiations and organizational planning.
- Oversee internal accounting operations, including general ledger maintenance, journal entries, budget transfers, cash transfers, and account reconciliations.
- Supervise accounts payable and accounts receivable functions to ensure timely processing, accuracy, and effective internal controls.
- Oversee purchasing operations, including purchase order processing, compliance with purchasing requirements, and fixed asset tracking.
- Maintain and audit budget development systems, salary analysis tools, and other internal financial management systems.
- Confer with administrators regarding program financial status to support informed decision‑making and compliance with applicable guidelines.
- Coordinate and provide documentation, schedules, and financial records in support of the annual independent audit; respond to audit inquiries related to internal business operations and assist with the implementation of corrective actions, as directed.
- Oversee and participate in the preparation and review of internal and external financial reports to meet state, federal, and special project reporting requirements.
- Ensure compliance with Governmental Accounting Standards Board (GASB) standards and other applicable accounting and reporting requirements.
- Coordinate and support fiscal reporting for County Office programs, including Medi‑Cal Administrative Activities (MAA), as applicable.
- Recommend and implement improvements to fiscal systems, procedures, and internal controls to improve efficiency, effectiveness, and compliance.
- Design and support training for County Office staff related to internal business processes, systems, and procedures, as appropriate.
- Perform special projects and other related duties as assigned.
Qualifications/Employment Standards
Knowledge of:
- Principles and practices of public‑sector accounting and budgeting.
- Laws, regulations, and reporting requirements governing school finance.
- Public funds purchasing principles and legal requirements, including competitive bidding.
- Financial record‑keeping methods and systems, including automated accounting platforms.
- Internal controls and fiscal compliance standards.
- Principles and practices of supervision, training, and performance management.
- Office practices, procedures, and relevant technologies.
Ability to:
- Plan, coordinate, supervise, and evaluate the work of assigned staff.
- Analyze financial data and prepare clear, accurate reports and recommendations.
- Maintain accuracy and attention to detail while working under deadline pressure.
- Communicate effectively, both orally and in writing, with a wide range of stakeholders.
- Exercise sound judgment and discretion within established policies and procedures.
- Work collaboratively with administrators, managers, and staff across departments.
- Use financial, accounting, and productivity software effectively.
- Organize, maintain, and audit detailed financial records and documentation.
Education and Experience
Minimum Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Accounting, Finance, or a closely related field.
- Five (5) years of progressively responsible experience in fiscal record preparation and maintenance, including at least two (2) years of advanced‑level accounting or financial analysis.
- Supervisory and/or staff training experience is highly desirable.
Working Conditions
Some travel may be required to attend conferences, trainings, or meetings outside of the immediate area.
Environmental Elements
The majority of work is performed indoors in a climate‑controlled office environment.
Physical Demands
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this position:
- Ordinary ambulatory ability to retrieve work materials; intermittent walking, standing, stooping, and lifting or carrying light‑ to medium‑weight materials (generally under 30 pounds).
- Manual dexterity to operate a personal computer keyboard, ten‑key, and standard office equipment.
- Speaking and hearing ability sufficient to communicate in person and by telephone in complex conversations.
- Visual acuity sufficient to read documents, computer screens, and related materials throughout the workday.
Other Requirements
- Fingerprinting and a satisfactory Department of Justice background check prior to employment.
- TB testing and/or risk assessment upon employment.
- Pre‑employment physical examination, if applicable.
- First Aid and CPR certification may be required within the first 6 to 12 months of employment.
- Some positions may require driving; a valid California driver’s license, proof of insurance, and participation in the DMV Pull Notice Program may be required, if applicable.
The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of personnel so classified.
Salary: Classified Management, Range 9.