Job Listing: Accountant

Duty Locations

 1 vacancy - Columbia, SC

VETERANS BENEFITS ADMINISTRATION

VBA DELEGATED EXAMINING UNIT - DETROIT

VACANCY ANNOUNCEMENT

Vacancy Identification Number:  VB191361

Opening Date: Tuesday, May 20, 2008

Closing Date: Friday, May 23, 2008

ALL APPLICATION MATERIAL MUST BE RECEIVED BY Friday, May 23, 2008. 

Position: Accountant-GS-0510-07

Promotion Potential: GS-09

Salary: $36,822.00 - $47,864.00

Location: Columbia, SC 1 vacancy

Relocation Expenses:  Not Authorized

Employing Agency: Veterans Benefits Administration

The Veterans Benefits Administration (VBA) is responsible for providing comprehensive benefits and services to America's veterans and their families, including compensation and pension, education, vocational rehabilitation, loan guaranty, and insurance benefits.  A position at the VBA may find you working one-on-one with veterans and their families, or developing systems and procedures that manage benefits and services for veterans.

For problems applying to a vacancy announcement, contact USAJOBS at http://help.usajobs.gov or click on HELP.

You may check the status of your documents in your Application Manager at https://applicationmanager.org.

Major Duties

MAJOR DUTIES:
Prepare and process, as needed a variety of accounting documents including payment vouchers, loan closing, transfer documents, deposits, and receivables. Prepare, as needed a variety of electronic accounting documents including budget transfers, obligations, invoices, public vouchers, purchase card adjustments, deposits and receiving reports. Analyze electronic accounting documents and store them in an electronic, image-based database in a timely manner. Review, validate and record obligations into a computerized system to update the accounting and subsidiary records, processing rejects associated with data input. Performs follow-ups on outstanding items, such as open receivables with vendors, field stations or others as needed. Records data into one or several computerized systems to update the accounting and subsidiary records, processing rejects associated with data input. Retrieves data using files, reports or other medium and transfer all or part of the date either by manual input or file uploads to assist in processing accounting documents or preparing reports. Reconciles general ledger accounts to subsidiary records, includes notifying management of any variances. Assists and maintain accurate source accounting documents by ensuring all required information is included in documentation, proper audit trails are maintained, and documents are filed and stored properly. Prepares weekly and monthly reports as needed.

How to Apply

HOW TO APPLY:

Before applying, please ensure you read the following 5 points to ensure consideration:

Mailed/emailed applications will not be accepted.  Please refer to instructions below regarding uploading (scanning) and/or faxing.  If you are unable to upload your documents after you have completed the Occupational Questionnaire Online, you may FAX your documents (resume, OF-612, etc.) to 1-478-757-3144.  If you choose to fax, you are required to use the approved Cover Page.  To print a copy of the Cover Page, please insert this URL into your browser, http://staffing.opm.gov/pdf/usascover.pdf and refer to the instructions below for complete details.  If you fax your documents using any other cover sheet, you will not receive consideration. 
If you claim veterans preference (VP) and fail to provide supporting documentation such as a DD-214 and/or VA Disability Letter/SF-15, VP will not be granted.  You must submit this proof each time you apply.  If you are currently in the service and do not yet possess a DD-214, you may submit any document to support your 5-point claim, such as Separation or Retirement Papers.  If you are selected, a DD-214 will be required prior to appointment date.  Please refer to instructions below for complete details.
Unofficial transcripts are acceptable at time of application, if applicable.  If you are selected, official transcripts will be required prior to appointment date.
If you have questions that are not answered within this announcement, please email your detailed question, including the Vacancy Number to:  HRMDEU@VA.GOV. 
You may check the status of your documents once you set up your Application Manager Account at the Application Manager login  URL (https://applicationmanager.org).   In Application Manager, the Checklist and Details tabs on the Application Package Status page for each VIN show the status of each assessment and document.   For Technical System Problems, please email: applicationmanagerhelpdesk@opm.gov.         

For this job announcement the following materials are required:

Current Resume or the Optional Application for Federal Employment (OF-612)

College Transcripts (when applicable), if you are using education to qualify

Veterans Preference documentation, if you are claiming veterans preference

Responses to the Occupational Questionnaire

 

FAILURE TO PROVIDE SUPPORTING DOCUMENTATION MAY RESULT IN YOUR NOT BEING CONSIDERED FOR THIS POSITION.    IF YOU ARE CLAIMING VETERANS PREFERENCE, PLEASE SUBMIT THE NECESSARY PAPERWORK. IF YOU ARE USING EDUCATION TO QUALIFY, PLEASE SUBMIT THE NECESSARY TRANSCRIPTS.  IF WE CANNOT VERIFY YOUR VETERANS PREFERENCE CLAIM OR YOUR EDUCATION, YOU MAY NOT RECEIVE CREDIT FOR YOUR CLAIM. 

 

SUBMISSION OF APPLICATION MATERIAL FOR PREVIOUS VACANCY ANNOUNCEMENTS TO OUR OFFICE IS NOT SUFFICIENT PROOF.  YOU MUST ALWAYS RE-SUBMIT YOUR INFORMATION EVERYTIME YOU APPLY FOR A DIFFERENT VACANCY.

If you submit a resume, your resume should include the following information:

    Job Information:
            -        Vacancy Identification Number, title and grade(s) for which you
                   are applying.
          Personal Information:
            -        Full name, mailing address (with zip code) and day/evening
                   telephone numbers (with area code).
          -        Social Security Number. Giving your Social Security Number 
                   is voluntary.  However, we cannot process your application
                   without it.
          -        Country of Citizenship.
          -        If ever employed by the Federal Government, please show the
                   highest Federal civilian grade held, job series, and dates of
                   employment in grade.
          Education:
            -        High School name, city, state and zip code, date of diploma or
                   GED.
          -        Colleges and/or Universities attended, city, state and zip code.
          -        Major field(s) of study.
          -        Type and year of degree(s) received. If no degree
                    received, show total credit hours received in semester or quarter
                    hours.
         Work Experience for each paid or non-paid position held
            related to the job for which you are applying (do not provide
            copies of job descriptions):
            -        Job title.
          -        Duties and accomplishments.
          -        Number of hours per week.
          -        Employer's name and address.
          -        Supervisor's name and phone number.
          -        Starting and ending dates of employment (month and year).
          -        Salary.
          -        Indicate if your current supervisor may be contacted.
          Other Qualifications:
          -        Job-related training courses (title and year).
          -        Job-related skills (e.g., other languages, computer
                   software/hardware, tools, machinery, typing speed, etc.)
          -        Job-related certificates and licenses.
          -        Job-related honors, awards, and special accomplishments 
                   (e.g., publications, memberships in professional or honor societies,
                    leadership activities, public speaking, performance awards, etc.)

You can submit your responses to the Occupational Questionnaire and resume (and any supporting documentation) via the ONLINE process or by fax.  We do encourage the ONLINE process as it is the most efficient way to receive and process your application materials. 

 

Online Process:  This process allows you to respond to the Occupational Questionnaire.  After submitting the responses, you will have the opportunity to upload your documents (resume, transcripts, DD214, VA Letter).  If you wish to use this process to upload all of your documents, you need to make sure your documents are in JPG, PDF, TXT, RTF, DOC, WPD, XFD, FDF, XFDF, or HTMM/HTML file format and not exceed 1 megabyte.  These files must not include macros or script of any kind.  Again this is the most efficient way of sending your application materials.

Application Manager:  

To begin, choose one of these options:

·        If your résumé is going to come from the USAJOBS Resume Builder, you begin the process by clicking the Apply Online button near the bottom of this page. Your résumé will be attached only to the Application Package you complete and Submit immediately after you click the Apply Online button for this job announcement, not to any Application Packages you may already have created.

·        If your résumé is going to be one you prepared outside of USAJOBS Résumé Builder, click this link to begin the process:  Online Questionnaire.

 

To return to Application Manager at any time, use whichever one of the links you used to begin as described above, or simply go to https://ApplicationManager.org.  

You must submit your on-line questionnaire by midnight, Eastern Time, on the closing date of the announcement.

 

FAX Method: 

1.  If you are unable to upload your documents after you have completed the Occupational Questionnaire Online, you may fax your documents (resume, OF-612, etc.).  See below for further instructions.  To do so you will need to print the Cover Page found in the Document Upload Screen.  This cover page is used to match your documents with the record you established when you submitted the occupational questionnaire. If the information is inaccurate or incomplete, you may not receive consideration for this position if we cannot match up the documents. To print a copy of the Cover Page, click on this link Cover Page or insert this URL into your browser http://staffing.opm.gov/pdf/usascover.pdf. 

The Fax number to submit your documents is 1-478-757-3144.    Be sure when faxing in your documents to use the Cover Page and to feed all documents into the fax machine with the top of the page going in first.  This will ensure your forms will be processed accurately and promptly.

2.  If you are unable to use a personal computer (PC) to enter your responses to the occupational questionnaire and need to submit hard copies of the occupational responses and required materials, you will first need to obtain a Form 1203-FX. You can obtain this form two ways.

A.  Click this link to print a copy of the OPM Form1203-FX or insert or type this URL into your browser http://www.opm.gov./Forms/pdf_fill/OPM1203fx.pdf;

or
B.  Call USAJOBS by Phone at (703) 724-1850. After the introduction Press 1 and follow the instructions. 

 

NOTE: YOU MUST PROVIDE A COMPLETE APPLICATION PACKAGE. FAILURE TO PROVIDE COMPLETE INFORMATION MAY RESULT IN YOUR NOT RECEIVING CONSIDERATION FOR THIS POSITION. Your application materials will not be returned. Do not submit original documents that you may need in the future. Please follow the directions very carefully.

ALL APPLICATION MATERIAL MUST BE RECEIVED BY Friday, May 23, 2008. 

Required Documents:

Instructions for answering the questions in the Occupational Questionnaire:

Please use the following step-by-step instructions as a guide to filling out the required questionnaire. You will need to print the vacancy announcement and refer to it as you answer the questions. You may omit any optional information; however, you must provide responses to all required questions. Be sure to double-check your application before submission.

Social Security Number

Enter your Social Security Number in the space indicated. Providing your Social Security Number is voluntary, however we cannot process your application without it.


Vacancy Identification Number

Enter the Vacancy Identification Number: VB191361

1. Title of Job

Position Title: Accountant

2. Biographic Data

All biographic information is required, except for telephone number and the contact time.

3. E-Mail Address

If you have an E-mail address, please enter it in the space provided.


4. Work Information

If you are applying by the OPM Form 1203-FX, leave this section blank.

5. Employment Availability

Answer questions A through D with Y for Yes or N for No. Please leave Section E blank.

6. Citizenship

Are you a citizen of the United States?

7. Background Information

If you are applying by the OPM Form 1203-FX, leave this section blank.

8. Other Information

If you are applying by the OPM Form 1203-FX, leave this section blank.

9. Languages

If you are applying by the OPM Form 1203-FX, leave this section blank.

10. Lowest Grade

Enter the lowest grade level you will accept. The lowest grade/grades for this position is/are:


07
11. Miscellaneous Information

If you are applying by the OPM Form 1203-FX, leave this section blank.

12. Special Knowledge

If you are applying by the OPM Form 1203-FX, leave this section blank.

13. Test Location

If you are applying by the OPM Form 1203-FX, leave this section blank.

14. Veteran Preference Claim

Enter your claim for Veterans' Preference. A response to this question is required. If you claim 5-point preference, you MUST provide a DD-214, Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty, or other proof of entitlement. If you claim 10-point preference, you MUST submit a SF-15, Application for 10-point Veteran Preference, plus the proof required by that form.

15. Dates of Active Duty - Military Service

These dates are required if you have claimed Veterans' Preference unless you have claimed derived Preference (i.e., widows, spouse, etc.).

16. Availability Date

You may omit the availability date, if you can begin work immediately. Otherwise, you must provide the date that you will be available for employment.


17. Service Computation Date

If you are applying by the OPM Form 1203-FX, leave this section blank.

18. Other Date Information

If you are applying by the OPM Form 1203-FX, leave this section blank.

19. Job Preference

If you are applying by the OPM Form 1203-FX, leave this section blank.

20. Occupational Specialties

Enter at least one occupational specialty code. The specialty code(s) for this position is/are:


001 Accountant
21. Geographic Availability

Select the geographic location code(s) in which you are interested and will accept employment. The location code(s) for this position:


0411 Columbia, SC
22. Transition Assistance Plan

If you are applying by the OPM Form 1203-FX, leave this section blank.

23. Job Related Experience

If you are applying by the OPM Form 1203-FX, leave this section blank.

24. Personal Background Information

If you are applying by the OPM Form 1203-FX, leave this section blank.

25. Occupational/Assessment Questions:

1. Choose the response below that best describes your education and/or experience.

A. I have successfully completed a full four year course of study in an accredited college or university leading to a bachelor's or higher degree with a related field such as business administration, finance, or public administration that included or was supplemented by 24 semester hours in accounting. The 24 semester hours may include up to six hours of credit in business law.
B. I have a combination of education and experience. I have at least four years of experience in accounting, or an equivalent combination of accounting experience, college level education and training that provided professional accounting knowledge. I also have one of the following: (a) 24 semester hours in accounting or auditing courses (up to six semester hours may be in business law). (b) A certificate as a Certified Public Accountant or a Certified Internal Auditor, obtained through written examination.
C. None of the above.

2. Choose the response below that best describes your education and/or experience for the GS-7 level.

A. I have one year of specialized experience equivalent to at least the GS-5 grade level during which I performed the range of duties as outlined in the vacancy announcement.
B. I have at least one full academic year of graduate level education that demonstrates my knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to satisfactorily perform the work. One year of full-time graduate education is normally determined by the school you attended. If that number cannot be determined, 18 semester hours should be considered equivalent to one academic year of graduate study. Part-time graduate education is creditable on a pro-rated basis.
C. I have a combination of graduate education and specialized experience as described in the vacancy announcement.
D. I have an undergraduate degree and Superior Academic Achievement as described in the vacancy announcement.
E. None of the above.

3. Which of the following most closely describes your knowledge of General Accounting Principles and their application in a computerized financial accounting system? Select only one response and make absolutely sure you highlight your experience in your resume/application. Give as many specific examples and include how, when and where you gained the knowledge/skill/ability outlined in this questions.

A. I have EXTENSIVE experience in interpreting and complying with statutory requirements to ensure that operations are in compliance. I apply the principles of professional accounting while utilizing knowledge and skills acquired in a complex computerized accounting environment. I gained my experience through working in a complex computerized financial unit that involved multiple major accounting systems or as an auditor to such systems.
B. I have SUBSTANSIAL experience in interpreting and complying with statutory requirements to ensure that operations are in compliance. I apply the principles of professional accounting while utilizing knowledge and skills acquired in a complex computerized accounting environment. I gained my experience through working in a at least one major accounting systems and formal/informal training.
C. I have experience in interpreting statutory requirements to ensure operations are in compliance. I apply the principles of professional accounting standards while utilizing knowledge and skills acquired in a computerized financial unit. My experience was acquired through working in an accounting unit, working in a financial organization that involved non-routine accounting problems, and formal/informal training and guidance.
D. I do not have any direct work experience. However, I do have a professional accounting degree.
E. None of the above.

In the text below, please describe your ability to communicate in a concise and professional manner in writing. While writing your Narrative, include examples of how you communicated in writing such as school papers, emails, letters, etc.

4. Which of the following most closely describes your ability to pay attention to details while effectively inputting and monitoring the output of various accounting systems? Select only one response and make absolutely sure you highlight your experience in your resume/application. Give as many specific examples and include how, when and where you gained the knowledge/skill/ability outlined in this questions.

A. I have EXTENSIVE experience in working in a financial organization that operated in a computerized environment. My experience was gained through working in a financial unit that had extensive interaction with computerized applications that involved several different major accounting/financial systems and is one in which I effectively followed the policies and procedures related to these systems; formal/informal training and on-the-job guidance by higher-level management staff and professional accountants; and/or participation in seminars, conferences, and technical committees.
B. I have SUBSTANTIAL experience in activities of a financial organization that operated in a computerized environment. My experience was gained through working in a financial unit which interacted with computerized applications and is one that allowed me to have input to systems, policies and/or procedures changes; working with difficult auditing/accounting problems in an automated computer system; and/or formal/informal educational background in automated business applications and business theories.
C. I have experience in the activities of a financial organization that operates in a computerized environment. My experience was acquired through working in an accounting unit; formal/informal training; and/or on-the-job- guidance by higher level supervisors and accountants.
D. I do not have any direct work experience. However, I do have a professional accounting degree.
E. None of the above.

In the text box below, please briefly describe your ability to work independently, or in a group, establish priorities and organize work to stay within time limits. Include examples of tasks you may have worked on, independently as well as in a team environment, which required you to establish priorities and organize your workload in order to meet deadlines or the goals of the organization. Describe your tasks, the situation, the action(s) you took, and the results.

5. Which of the following most closely describes your ability to establish and maintain controls to assure timeliness of reports, controlled correspondence, and other actions requiring response? Select only one response and make absolutely sure you highlight your experience in your resume/application. Give as many specific examples and include how, when and where you gained the knowledge/skill/ability outlined in this questions.

A. I have EXTENSIVE experience and the ability to organize and prepare technical financial/accounting reports and controlled correspondence efficiently, accurately, and timely. My experience was gained through working in a complex computerized financial unit that involved multiple major accounting systems or as an auditor to such systems.
B. I have SUBSTANTIAL experience and ability to organize and prepare technical financial/accounting reports and controlled correspondence efficiently, accurately, and timely. My experience was acquired through working in a computerized financial unit that involved working with at least one major accounting system.
C. I have the ability to organize and prepare financial/accounting reports and controlled correspondence accurately and timely. I gained my experience through working in a financial unit of an organization and/or on-the-job training and guidance.
D. I do not have any direct work experience. However, I do have a professional accounting degree.
E. None of the above.

6. Which of the following most closely describes your ability to effectively and persuasively communicate both orally and in writing with diverse groups? Select only one response and make absolutely sure you highlight your experience in your resume/application. Give as many specific examples and include how, when and where you gained the knowledge/skill/ability outlined in this questions.

A. I have EXTENSIVE experience in establishing and maintaining effective relationships with supervisors, higher-level management, and employees. My written and oral communication and/or presentation skills and finished products were clear, concise and effective. My experience was acquired through working as an accountant or auditor in a medium to large organization; participating in seminars, conferences, and technical committees; and/or formal/informal on-the-job training and guidance.
B. I have SUBSTANTIAL experience in establishing and maintaining effective relationships with supervisors, higher-level management, and employees. My written and oral communication and/or presentation skills and finished products were clear, concise and effective. My experience was acquired through working in a financial unit of a medium or large organization; participating in seminars or conferences; and/or formal/informal on-the-job training and guidance.
C. I have experience in establishing and maintaining effective relationships with supervisors and employees. My written and oral communication skills and finished products are clear. My experience may have been acquired through working in a financial unit of an organization and/or on-the-job training and guidance.
D. None of the above.

In the text below, please describe your experience communicating information of a technical nature with callers, visitors, and clients to resolve issues. Please include how you would exercise tact and diplomacy in order to secure necessary data and clarify issues.

Contact Information:
Detroit DEU

Phone: (313)596-7213

Email: hrmdeu@vba.va.gov


Or write:
HRC Jackson
477 Michigan Ave Room 1120
Detroit, MI 48226-2614


What To Expect Next:

What To Expect Next: Once the online questionnaire is received you will receive an acknowledgment email that your submission was successful. After a review of your complete application is made you will be notified of your status and/or referral to the hiring official. If further evaluation or interviews are required you will be contacted.