Walton County Sheriff's Office - Budget Analyst

Position Summary 

The Budget Analyst performs professional financial and analytical work supporting the development, implementation, and oversight of the agency’s budget. This position serves as a key liaison between divisions and command staff, ensuring accurate financial reporting, compliance with applicable laws and policies, and effective fiscal management. Responsibilities include preparing and monitoring budgets, analyzing revenues and expenditures, developing financial projections, processing budget amendments and purchasing transactions, and providing clear, data-driven recommendations to support operational and strategic decision-making. The role also assists with financial reporting, presentations, and audits while maintaining strong internal controls and supporting transparency and accountability across the organization.

Qualifications 

• Education – Bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited college or university with a major in accounting, business administration, finance, public administration, or a related field
• Experience – Three or more years of professional experience in local government, budgeting, accounting or purchasing
  • *Or any equivalent combination of education and experience that provides the required competencies to perform the job.
• Valid Driver License
• Preferred:
  • Bachelor’s degree is preferred, or completion of degree within one year of hire
  • Governmental accounting experience

Essential Job Functions 

This list of functions, duties, responsibilities, skills, and physical abilities is not intended to be all-inclusive, and the employer reserves the right to assign additional functions and responsibilities as deemed necessary.

• Assists with developing and administering the Sheriff’s Office annual budget in coordination with the CFO, command staff, and division leaders
• Monitors revenues and expenditures to ensure compliance with approved budgets, policies, and applicable laws
• Analyzes financial data, trends, and operational needs to provide recommendations for effective resource allocation
• Prepares budget amendments, transfers, and supporting agenda items as required
• Reviews financial transactions, including purchase orders, invoices, and procurement card activity, for accuracy and compliance
• Assists with long-range financial planning, forecasting revenues and expenditures
• Produces and presents financial reports, summaries, and analyses for executive leadership, governing bodies, and stakeholders
• Maintains and supports budgetary control systems and internal financial controls
• Serves as a liaison to divisions on budget-related matters, providing guidance on policies, procedures, and financial best practices
• Supports audit processes by preparing documentation and responding to inquiries
• Researches and interprets applicable statutes, regulations, and policies related to public sector budgeting and finance
• Tracks and reports on performance measures and fiscal impacts of programs and initiatives
• Assists in training staff on budget procedures, financial systems, and compliance requirements
• Attends meetings, workshops, and budget hearings as required
• Performs other related duties as assigned

Required Skills 

• Proficient in budget development, financial analysis, and governmental accounting principles
• Strong analytical and quantitative skills with the ability to interpret complex financial data
• Advanced proficiency in spreadsheets and financial management systems
• Ability to prepare clear, accurate, and concise financial reports and presentations
• Knowledge of public sector budgeting processes, internal controls, and compliance requirements
• Skill in reviewing and processing financial transactions for accuracy and adherence to policy
• Effective written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to research, interpret, and apply laws, regulations, and policies
• Strong organizational and time management skills with attention to detail
• Ability to manage multiple projects, deadlines, and priorities simultaneously

Key Competencies 

• Critical Thinking and Problem Solving
• Financial Acumen
• Attention to Detail
• Integrity and Accountability
• Communication and Interpersonal Effectiveness
• Collaboration and Teamwork
• Sound Judgment and Decision-Making
• Adaptability and Flexibility
• Initiative and Self-Direction
• Confidentiality and Professionalism
• Customer Service Orientation (internal and external stakeholders)
• Strategic Thinking and Planning

Physical Requirements 

• Sit up to seven (7) hours per day.
• Stand and/or walk up to one (1) hour per day.
• Occasionally lift and/or move items up to ten (10) pounds.
• Frequently use hands and fingers for data entry, typing, and operating office equipment.
• Bend, squat, reach, kneel, and/or twist as required.
• Ability to maintain focus, accuracy, and attention to detail during extended periods of computer-based work.
• Vision sufficient to read and analyze detailed financial data in electronic and paper formats.
• Ability to communicate effectively in person, by phone, and through electronic means.
• Work is primarily performed in an office environment with a generally quiet noise level.

Benefits

• 24 - Hour Access to 2 Agency Gyms
• Florida State Retirement System - 3% Employee Contribution
• Health, Dental, Vision, Life & Disability Insurance
• Annual Leave, Sick Leave & Paid Holidays
• Deferred Compensation Plans Available
• Tuition Assistance for College Courses
• Employee Assistance Program: counseling services for employees, immediate family, and members of your household
• Physical Fitness Program: Participants Can Earn up to $2,160 Per Year

The Walton County Sheriff's Office is an Equal Opportunity Employer. In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, the Walton County Sheriff's Office will provide reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities and encourages both prospective and current employees to discuss potential accommodations with the employer.

Veterans are encouraged to apply. Pursuant to applicable state and federal law, preference and priority shall be given to certain service members and veterans (including spouses and family members of such service members and veterans), and certain service members may be eligible for a waiver of post-secondary educational requirements as provided in Chapter 295, Florida Statutes.