The CalSTRS Financial Planning, Accounting & Reporting Division is seeking a motivated individual to work as a Financial Accountant I in the Cost Accounting Unit.
The Financial Planning, Accounting and Reporting Division is responsible for developing and maintaining the annual financial planning processes, preparing accounting records and managerial reports detailing cost and performance information, and coordinating and preparing the financial statements in compliance with generally accepted accounting principles.
The Cost Accounting Unit defines and maintains CalSTRS cost objects and allocation methodology; monitors periodic cost allocation transactions and resulting program, organizational unit and fund costs; and, provides “actual” results for performance management.
Under the general supervision of the Financial Accountant IV, the Financial Accountant I (Specialist) performs complex technical, analytical, research, and reporting assignments within the Cost Accounting unit. The incumbent plays a support role in advancing CalSTRS' cost-conscious culture by developing and maintaining cost allocation methodologies, conducting cost and performance analyses, preparing financial reports, and providing recommendations that support strategic decision-making, operational efficiency, and fiscal stewardship. The position serves as the primary analyst and coordinator for Cost Effectiveness Measurement (CEM) benchmarking activities, ensuring the accurate collection, validation, analysis, and reporting of financial and operational data. The incumbent also serves as a subject matter expert for the Organizational Management and Personnel Administration (OMPA) module within BusinessDirect, performs complex accounting and financial analyses supporting Cost Accounting unit operations, and researches, tracks, analyzes, and summarizes legislative and regulatory developments that may impact CalSTRS' programs, operations, and financial activities. The work requires independent judgment, advanced analytical skills, and extensive collaboration with stakeholders throughout the organization to support continuous improvement and effective resource management.
The ideal candidate will possess the following skills:
- Experience developing or utilizing complex cost accounting, cost allocation, financial analysis, and reporting activities.
- Experience analyzing cost trends, performance measures, and operational data
- Experience preparing and/or analyzing financial reports
- Knowledge of governmental accounting and budgeting
- Knowledge of pension/financial systems
- Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing, with all levels of staff and management
- Ability to establish strong working relationships across the organization with technical staff, project managers and business area subject matter experts
- Ability to take initiative and work independently
- Ability to independently lead projects.
Every 12 months, based on performance evaluation, employees may receive a 5% salary increase until they reach the maximum salary for the position.
In July 2025, the State of California implemented the Personal Leave Program 2025. This program reduces employees’ monthly base pay in exchange for paid leave credits. This position is subject to PLP 2025 and will have a monthly base pay reduction of 3% in exchange for 5 hours of leave credits for the duration of the program. The salary ranges shown on this job posting do not reflect the reduced amounts.
Does this opportunity seem right for you? If so, see the Application Instructions section below and apply now.
You will find additional information about the job in the Duty Statement.
CalSTRS offers a hybrid approach including in-office and remote work solutions based on business needs.
All staff of CalSTRS are employees of the State of California and subject to California employment taxes and withholdings. Upon appointment, staff are required to provide a current California address to CalSTRS Human Resources to be used as a remote work location.
This position is not eligible for visa sponsorship. Applicants must be authorized to work in the US without the need for visa sponsorship by the start date of employment with CalSTRS.
