This is the journey, occupational or working level of the series. Positions at this level work independently and require more knowledge of political and lobbying practices, knowledge of the public disclosure law and its related rules, interpretations, applications, knowledge, and experience in auditing and investigative procedures.

Develops and maintains close working relationship with persons and organizations in assigned territory to promote maximum compliance with the law; identifies potential problem areas and outlines solutions;

Provides oral and written answers to questions arising from the public disclosure law; refers obscure, complex, and unusual questions to senior personnel for guidance and resolution; suggests policy, procedure, or changes to agency rules, if necessary;

Investigates complaints and allegations of violations of the law; prepares reports of findings for the Assistant Director; prepares evidence for enforcement hearings and court cases;

Recommends persons to be selected for audit; prepares audit plan; conducts comprehensive desk and field audits to verify compliance with the public disclosure law; conducts pre- and post-audit conferences to explain findings and recommendations; prepares written reports of findings and recommendations;

Provides guidance and direction to the team leader;

Advises supervisor on agency policy for auditing practices and procedures; advises other staff on audit practices and procedures;

May lead or supervise lower level staff.

There may be instances where individual positions must have additional licenses or certification. It is the employer’s responsibility to ensure the appropriate licenses/certifications are obtained for each position.

Most positions require a Bachelor’s degree that included 10 semester or 15 quarter hours of college level accounting and two years of professional experience in accounting, auditing, or the examining of records. Experience serving as the treasurer for a county, state, or national political party may substitute for the education and experience on a year for year basis.

A Master’s degree in a related field or a Certified Public Accountant, Internal Auditor, Information System Auditor, or Fraud Examiner will substitute for the professional experience.

New class replaces 13061 Political Finance Specialist 2; effective January 1, 2006.