• **The target Program start date is June 2026***
Please read full job announcement here: https://careers.sf.gov/l?go=ic1TDeQw
>>Transcript Required<<
>>DEADLINE: Friday, February 6, 2026 <<
Fostering Future Financial Leader
As the demand for transparency and accountability in government spending and allocation increases, so does the need for accounting professionals with specialized expertise in governmental financial management. The 1649 Accountant Trainee Program, also known as the 1649 Accountant Intern Program, was established to ensure excellence in the City and County of San Francisco's Accountant Series. This program provides trainees with a strong foundation in governmental accounting policies, procedures, and best practices through a blend of workshop training and hands-on experience.
Trainees receive mentorship from experienced accountants and cover essential topics like Peoplesoft Financials, General Ledger, Budget Process, Purchasing, Accounts Receivable, Accounts Payable, Financial Analysis and Reporting, and Vouchers and Expenses. In addition to technical knowledge, the program enhances communication and presentation skills through workshops and professional development opportunities, including sessions with the Treasurer/Tax Collector, Civil Service Commission, and Office of Public Finance.
Participants are paired with seasoned supervisors and mentors for support and coaching throughout their training, with progress evaluated through regular performance reviews. The 18-month program includes two 9-month rotations in different City departments, preparing trainees for professional-level accounting positions. By the end of the program, participants will have expanded their formal education, gained hands-on experience, developed strong analytical and communication skills, and become proficient with technology and financial information systems. Upon completing the 18-month program, successful trainees are promoted to the Permanent Civil Service 1652 Accountant II classification. Assignment locations may vary for each rotation and for the 1652 Accountant II placements.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS >>Transcript Required<<
Education: Bachelor's degree (in any major) from an accredited college or university AND eighteen (18) semester units or twenty-four (24) quarter units of coursework in Accounting.
• Only classes that are 3 units or more will be counted towards coursework requirement. One to two-unit accounting electives will NOT be considered qualifying coursework, and neither will adjacent coursework (e.g. finance, economics, math, QuickBooks/Excel courses).
Tentative Testing Schedule (all remote):
• Written Exam: Saturday, March 14, 2026 (3 hours)
• Performance Exercise: Wednesday, March 25, 2026 (2.5 hours)
• Oral Interview: March 26-27, 2026
