Sr. Budget Analyst

Position Summary

Mustang Special Utility District (“Mustang”) is a local governmental entity providing water and water reclamation utility service in Denton, Collin, and Grayson Counties of North Texas. We are the largest Special Utility District in Texas and in one of the fastest-growing areas of the country. Comprising over 38,000 connections over 220 sq. miles. Our motto is Second to None! Providing Life’s Most Precious Resource . We’re looking for a key person to join our team as a Budget Analyst.

The following consists of a general description of the expectations of this position and is not intended to be all-inclusive, but rather, to highlight and describe the general nature and level of work to be performed. This document should not to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of the incumbent. The incumbent will be required to follow any other instructions and to perform any other reasonably related job duties and responsibilities requested by their supervisor. Mustang reserves the right to revise or change the job duties and responsibilities, and this Job Description may be updated accordingly. This position is at-will , and this Job Description does not constitute a written or implied contract of employment.

The Budget Analyst plays a critical role in the organization's financial management by analyzing and forecasting financial data related to revenue, expenditures, and capital expenditures. This position is integral to coordinating and maintaining the fiscal budget and is responsible for preparing detailed annual budget reports. The Budget Analyst works closely with various departments to gather necessary information, support strategic financial planning, and ensure the accuracy and integrity of financial data. The Budget Analyst helps guide the organization's financial decisions and long-term planning by providing valuable financial insights and reports.

Essential Functions, Duties, and Responsibilities:

The following “Essential Functions” are the primary job duties that the incumbent must be able to perform unassisted or with some reasonable accommodation by the employer.

- Analyze Financial Data: Perform detailed analysis of financial data to provide accurate forecasting for revenue, expenditures, and capital planning. This involves breaking down complex data into understandable parts to facilitate the preparation of the fiscal budget and capital plans.

- Prepare Financial Reports : Assist in the preparation of monthly and annual financial reports, including the creation of graphs, charts, and other illustrative materials. This ensures that financial information is presented clearly and effectively for stakeholders.

- Support Annual Audits: Analyze financial data to support the preparation and execution of annual audits, ensuring all financial information is accurate and compliant with relevant standards.

- Maintain Capital Assets Reports: Compile and maintain detailed reports on capital assets, including managing depreciation schedules to accurately reflect their value and status over time.

- Conduct Financial Analyses: Perform various financial analyses and studies to support the organization’s financial decision-making processes. This includes evaluating financial performance, identifying trends, and making recommendations for improvement.

- Ad Hoc Projects and Research: Provide support through ad hoc projects and research as needed. This might involve special financial analyses, responding to specific queries, and providing data-driven insights.

- Related Duties: Perform a variety of other related duties and responsibilities as assigned, ensuring flexibility and responsiveness to the finance department's needs.

- Additional Responsibilities: Perform other job duties and responsibilities as assigned to support the organization's overall goals and operations.

At Mustang Special Utility District, we are committed to embodying our core values encapsulated in the S.T.R.E.A.M. framework: Standards, Teamwork, Respect, Excellence, Adaptability, and Mastery. These values are the foundation of our culture and guide our actions, ensuring we serve our community with commitment and integrity.

- Standards : We are committed to excellence in every task we undertake, reflecting the high standards we set for ourselves and our services. Each employee is responsible for upholding our commitment to quality, mirroring the dedication we would expect in our own families' service experiences.

- Teamwork : Like a well-coordinated team in a relay race, we pass our responsibilities with trust and efficiency, knowing that our collective success depends on the support and collaboration of every member.

- Respect : We treat each other with the same respect and kindness as a close friend or neighbor, fostering an environment of mutual respect where all voices are heard and valued.

- Excellence : We aim for the pinnacle of excellence, like an athlete striving for a personal best, by leveraging our skills and knowledge to overcome challenges and deliver outstanding results.

- Adaptability : As seasoned travelers adapt to new cultures, we remain flexible and open to change, ready to learn and grow from each new challenge and opportunity.

- Mastery : Our journey towards mastery is akin to an artisan refining their craft, where continuous learning and integrity shape our professional path, ensuring we deliver services of the highest ethical standards.

As part of the Mustang team, each employee is not just a contributor but a living example of these values. From the moment you join and throughout your journey with us, we all share the responsibility to embody and uphold these principles, ensuring the Mustang Special Utility District remains a place of excellence, respect, and shared success.

Qualifications

Position Specifications:

This position is classified as Exempt under the provisions of the Fair Labor Standards Act and is not subject to the organization’s policies and procedures pertaining to overtime hours.

Experience:

Required:

- Some relevant experience in financial analysis, budgeting, or a related area.

Preferred:

- Several years of experience in financial analysis, budgeting, or accounting.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

- Analytical Skills: Proficiency in analyzing financial data to identify trends, variances, and significant changes. This includes using statistical techniques and financial models to interpret complex datasets and provide actionable insights for budgeting and forecasting.

- Communication Skills: Strong verbal and written communication skills to clearly convey financial concepts and findings to non-financial stakeholders. This includes preparing comprehensive reports and presentations and effectively explaining budget proposals and financial performance.

- Technical Proficiency: Advanced skills in Microsoft Excel, including using pivot tables, and complex formulas to analyze and present financial data. Proficiency in Microsoft Word and PowerPoint for creating detailed reports and impactful presentations.

- Problem-Solving: Ability to recognize and diagnose financial discrepancies, develop and implement effective solutions, and make informed decisions based on data analysis, risk assessment, and organizational priorities.

- Organizational Skills: Strong capability in organizing, planning, and prioritizing work to handle multiple projects simultaneously and ensure timely completion of financial reports and analyses. This includes setting specific goals and developing structured plans to achieve them.

- Regulatory Knowledge: Understanding of financial regulations and standards, ensuring compliance with legal requirements and internal policies. This knowledge helps maintain ethical standards and avoid legal issues.

- Interpersonal Skills: Ability to build and maintain effective relationships with colleagues, supervisors, and external stakeholders. This includes collaborating with various departments to gather financial information and providing support as needed.

- Self-Motivation and Independence: Demonstrated capacity to work independently, taking initiative and responsibility for tasks without constant supervision. This includes maintaining a proactive approach to work and continuously seeking opportunities for improvement.

- Reliability and Work Ethic: Maintaining regular and punctual attendance to ensure continuity and dependability in completing tasks. Demonstrating a strong work ethic and positive attitude, contributing to a productive and harmonious work environment.

- Attention to Detail: Meticulous attention to detail when examining financial documents and reports to ensure all calculations are accurate and comply with regulatory standards. This reduces the risk of errors and enhances the reliability of financial data.

Training/Professional Development Requirements:

- On-the-Job Training: Initial training lasting from a few months to a year, focusing on familiarizing the Budget Analyst with the organization's financial systems, procedures, and specific software tools used for budgeting and financial analysis.

- Certifications: Encouragement to pursue relevant certifications such as Certified Government Financial Manager (CGFM) or Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA).

- Continuing Education and Workshops: Regular participation in workshops, seminars, and courses related to financial analysis, budgeting, and the use of advanced financial software.

Visual Acuity, Hearing, Speaking, Manual Dexterity:

- Near Vision: Ability to see details at close range for tasks such as reading financial reports, working on a computer, and analyzing spreadsheets.

- Visual Precision: High level of precision required to review and interpret complex financial data, ensuring accuracy and compliance with standards.

- Screen Use: Extensive screen time is required for data entry, analysis, and preparation of financial documents, necessitating good eyesight and attention to detail.

- Auditory Attention: Ability to focus on and understand spoken information in meetings, teleconferences, and phone calls, even with background noise.

- Verbal Communication: Clear and effective speaking skills to present financial information, explain budget details, and participate in discussions with colleagues and stakeholders.

- Active Listening: Skill in listening to others, understanding their points, and providing appropriate responses during financial reviews and team collaborations.

- Data Entry: Proficiency in using a keyboard for accurate and efficient data entry, often involving complex spreadsheets and financial software.

- Document Handling: Ability to handle physical documents and use office equipment such as printers, scanners, and copiers for preparing and distributing financial reports.

- Precision Tasks: Fine motor skills are required for detailed work such as entering data, creating charts, and managing financial records.

Mental Demand:

- Analytical Thinking: Continuous requirement to analyze complex financial data, identify trends, and make data-driven decisions that impact budget planning and financial strategy.

- Attention to Detail: High attention to detail is needed to ensure accuracy in financial reporting, budget preparation, and compliance with regulatory standards.

- Problem Solving: Frequent need to address and resolve financial discrepancies, develop effective solutions, and provide recommendations for financial improvements.

Environment/Working Conditions:

- Office Environment: Predominantly works in an office setting, involving long periods of sitting and extensive use of computer and office equipment.

- Team Collaboration: Regular interaction with colleagues, supervisors, and other departments to gather information, discuss budgetary issues, and present financial reports.

- Work Hours: Typically a standard workweek with occasional extended hours during peak financial periods such as budget preparation, audits, and fiscal year-end closing.

- Stress Management: Potential for high stress due to tight deadlines, complex financial analyses, and the need for precise accuracy in financial reporting

Conditions Of Employment:

- Must have a valid Class "C" Driver's License before employment (must obtain Texas Class "C" driver's license within 30 days of hire per state law).

- Must pass a drug test, criminal history background check, and social security number verification check.