Fiscal Forecasting Specialist

Job Description and Duties Under general direction of the Supervisor II (Fiscal Forecasting Manager), the Analyst III (Fiscal Forecasting Specialist) is responsible for performing advanced analytical work to support the forecasting-related activities of the multibillion-dollar high-speed train project for the California High-Speed Rail Authority (Authority). This position performs complex financial analysis, forecasting, reporting, and data evaluation across multiple funding sources, including special funds, bond funds, federal funds, and reimbursements. The Analyst III will frequently navigate across multiple financial systems, databases, and analytical tools to locate, extract, and validate the data necessary for accurate forecasting and analysis. The incumbent also assists in preparing reports and presentations that will be delivered to Executive Management, the Authority Board, control agencies, and internal stakeholders to support critical agency decisions.You will find additional information about the job in the Duty Statement. Working Conditions Part-time telework is available for this position for California residents based on the requirements of the position and may be discussed during the interview process. Hiring interviews may be available virtually, using teleconferencing or video conferencing options. While working on site, the incumbent works in a professional office environment, in a climate-controlled cubicle which may fluctuate in temperature and is under artificial light. Incumbent will be required to use a computer, mouse, and video display terminal and will be required to sit for long periods of time at a computer screen. Employee must be able to focus for long periods of time, multi-task, adapt to changes in priorities and complete tasks or projects with short notice. Employees may be required to travel outside of their workstation to perform general tasks. Minimum Requirements You will find the Minimum Requirements in the Class Specification.

• ANALYST III Additional Documents
• Job Application Package Checklist
• Duty Statement Department Information Are you looking for a different type of state government job? Something with a little more excitement and a more fast-paced and fluid environment? How about an opportunity to be part of one of the most remarkable transportation projects in California's history? The California High-Speed Rail Authority is a small and dynamic state agency that is looking for employees who are interested in a challenging and rewarding job opportunity. Please let us know how you heard about our position by taking this brief survey. Completing this survey is not required to be considered for this vacancy. https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/HCM6SCC

Department Website:

https://hsr.ca.gov/jobs/ Special Requirements A Statement of Qualifications (SOQ) is required for this position. An SOQ is a narrative that describes your qualifications for this position. The SOQ must be no more than two (2) pages, 12-point font, organized and numbered as reflected below. You must respond to all the following items. Applicants who do not follow these requirements may be disqualified from the hiring process.

1. Please describe your experience performing complex analytical work involving financial forecasting, cash-flow projections, or work that involved large datasets. In your response, include examples of the types of data you have worked with, the analytical methods or tools you used, and how your work supported decision-making within your organization.
2. Please describe your experience preparing financial reports, summaries, or presentations for management, executives, or external stakeholders. Include how you verify the accuracy of the information, how you communicate complex financial data clearly, and any experience responding to inquiries from oversight entities or similar organizations. Applications received without the SOQ may not be considered. Resumes, letters, and other materials will not be considered in the place of the SOQ. Artificial intelligence (AI) tools such as ChatGPT, website searches, and third-party reviewers can be helpful in researching responses to the SOQ; however, by submitting your application for this position, you understand and acknowledge the SOQ you submit is your own work, in your own words, and accurately reflects your knowledge, skills, abilities, and experiences. Submitting an SOQ that is not your own may be cause for disqualification from the hiring process. For assistance in completing the SOQ, please reach out to the Human Resources contact below. Desirable Qualifications In addition to evaluating each candidate's relative ability, as demonstrated by quality and breadth of experience, the following factors will provide the basis for competitively evaluating each candidate:

• Bachelor’s degree in accounting, finance, data analysis or a related degree.
• Computer proficiency and knowledge of various computer software applications, databases, internet-based tools and Microsoft Office (Word, PowerPoint, Outlook, Teams, and Excel).
• Experience with database construction, pivot tables, data management, and ensuring data integrity.
• Experience with general ledger, accounts payable, and accounts receivable.
• Knowledge of accounting, budgeting and forecasting principles and procedures.
• Experience reconciling complex financial information, including data from multiple financial systems or sources.
• Experience with auditing and reviewing expenditures and forecasts.
• Knowledge of financial management and financial analysis concepts.
• Extensive analytical experience in the forecasting, finance or accounting fields.
• Experience with project forecasting and project budgeting.
• Experience developing or maintaining financial forecasting models or analytical tools.
• Experience with process improvement methodologies.
• Strong communication skills and experience working and communicating with various levels of staff across an organization, external parties, and the public.
• Experience in presenting fiscal reports and financial information effectively both orally and in writing.
• Familiarity with project management principles, including planning, tracking, or analysis of project activities.
• Experience working with or supporting large-scale capital or infrastructure projects.
• Experience with governmental accounting, budgeting, funding sources and uses, adjustments, and reallocations.
• Knowledge of the uniform accounting system (e.g., FI$Cal) and financial organization and procedures of the State of California and related laws, rules, and regulations.
• Experience preparing financial reports, funding forecasts, and briefing materials for executive-level or external oversight entities, including coordination with control agencies such as DOF, STO, or SCO.

Benefits

The State of California offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes health, vision, dental, a retirement pension, a telework stipend if applicable, and an array of other options. Benefit information can be found on the CalHR website and the CalPERS website. Application Information The STD. 678 is required, and each section must be filled out completely and thoroughly. Please do not include your Social Security Number, date of birth, veteran status, personal photos, LEAP information, or any other personally identifying information on any documents in your application package. Using the online application system as specified in the announcement is the preferred method of applying for civil service job opportunities; however, applicants may instead apply by way of U.S. mail, parcel delivery or courier service, or in person, as set forth in this announcement. Dates printed on envelopes by mobile barcodes or equivalent mobile print technology are not acceptable proof of the date the application and any other required documents or materials were filed. If applying via postal mail or by dropping off your application, applicants must include JC-532663 and Fiscal Forecasting Specialist, 311-360-5402-001 in the 'Job Title' section of the STD. 678 to be considered for this position. Please indicate on the STD 678 your basis of eligibility in the "Explanations" field (i.e. SROA, surplus, reemployment, reinstatement, transfer, or list eligible.) Surplus/SROA candidates must provide a copy of their surplus/SROA letter with their application. Consideration may be given to applicants on another Department's employment list, provided the criteria are met to transfer the eligibility from the employment list to the Authority's employment list. Training and Development assignments are not being considered at this time. NOTE: To be considered for this job opportunity, applicants must be reachable on an employment list, have transfer eligibility, or have reinstatement eligibility. If you are new to California State service and you do not have list eligibility, you must take the exam for this classification. To gain employment list eligibility, please click here to access the exam bulletin. Location The High-Speed Rail Authority headquarters building is located in downtown Sacramento on the corner of 8th and L Street. We are located one block away from the 8th and Capitol light rail stop, as well as the 7th and Capitol light rail stop. The building is also within walking distance of DOCO, the California State Capitol Park, a farmer’s market during summer months, and Old Sacramento.