Financial Analyst

Job Description

Job Description

Hiring Range: $73,851 - $86,829

MEET MVTA

At Minnesota Valley Transit Authority (MVTA), we are more than a transit agency; we are the pulse of connected communities, driven by our guiding principles. We prioritize safety for riders, employees, and communities while delivering transformative transportation services that exceed expectations. We strive for eco-friendly practices, foster inclusivity, and fairness with a focus on innovation, uphold the highest standards of integrity and accountability, and remain customer-focused, placing riders at the center of all our endeavors.

As the second-largest transit agency in Minnesota, MVTA serves seven cities in Dakota and Scott counties. Our extensive network includes 25 routes, offering local, express, micro-transit, and event services. Join us in shaping the future of transit, fostering community ties, and delivering innovative solutions. Together, we propel MVTA as the most connected transit agency, transforming how our communities live, work, and play.

POSITION SNAPSHOT

The Financial Analyst is responsible for analyzing complex financial and operational data, researching transit funding and policy trends, and developing models and forecasts that inform leadership decisions. This position provides data-driven insights, prepares clear reports and presentations, and collaborates across departments to ensure financial accuracy and alignment.

In addition to strategic analysis, this position will cross-train on accounts payable responsibilities to provide support with reconciliations, invoice review, and financial reporting as needed. The Financial Analyst serves as a trusted advisor to the Finance Director and MVTA leadership, helping the organization anticipate challenges, evaluate options, and strengthen long-term financial sustainability.

KEY CONTRIBUTIONS

• Analyze complex and sensitive financial data sets, including politically sensitive or policy-related information, ensuring accuracy and actionable insights.
• Conduct in-depth research on transit funding sources, legislative trends, and peer agency practices to inform MVTA’s strategic planning.
• Develop and maintain financial models, scenario analyses, forecasts, and performance reports to support department/division evaluations and long-term planning.
• Prepare and present clear, data-driven recommendations to the Finance Director, MVTA leadership, the Board, and external partners.
• Collaborate with internal departments to verify financial data accuracy, align assumptions, and improve cross-departmental financial processes.
• Monitor and analyze fare collection trends, ridership patterns, and other performance metrics to guide operational and strategic decisions.
• Create compelling presentations and reports that communicate financial results and strategic options to diverse audiences.
• Maintain awareness of political, economic, and industry conditions that impact MVTA finances, proactively recommending adjustments to mitigate risks or capture opportunities.
• Ensure compliance with internal policies, funding requirements, and applicable federal, state, and local regulations.
• Provide back-up support to the Accounting Specialist role, including reconciliations, invoice review, and accounts payable/receivable processing as needed to ensure business continuity.
• Assist the Finance Director in monitoring and evaluating MVTA’s financial internal controls, identifying risks, and recommending process improvements to ensure compliance and safeguard assets.
• Partner with HR and Accounting to reconcile payroll and employee benefits accounts, ensuring accuracy in reporting and alignment with MN PERA and other benefit programs.
• Track and analyze fixed asset activity, prepare depreciation schedules, and support long-term asset management planning in coordination with Accounting and Finance leadership.
• Monitor daily cash balances, support short-term cash flow forecasting, and prepare operating-level treasury reports to optimize liquidity and investment strategies.
• Participate in departmental process improvement initiatives, identifying opportunities for efficiency, cost savings, and stronger financial stewardship.
• Perform other duties, as assigned.

CORE COMPETENCIES & CREDENTIALS

• Bachelor’s degree in finance, accounting, economics, business administration, or a closely related field.
• 3–5 years of progressively responsible experience in financial analysis, accounting, or related roles.
• Strong proficiency in Microsoft Excel and financial modeling techniques.
• Demonstrated ability to analyze financial statements, forecasts, and operational data.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to translate complex information into clear insights for diverse audiences.
• Proven analytical and problem-solving skills, with attention to detail and accuracy.
• Ability to work independently while also collaborating effectively across departments.
• Knowledge of Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP) and financial reporting practices.

DESIRABLE COMPETENCIES & SKILLS

• Master’s degree (MBA, MPA, or related field).
• Professional certification such as Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) or Certified Public Accountant (CPA).
• Experience in government, transit, or public sector finance.
• Familiarity with grant funding, compliance requirements, and transit funding mechanisms.
• Proficiency with financial reporting tools, ERP systems, or business intelligence platforms.
• Ability to prepare and deliver compelling presentations to leadership, boards, and external stakeholders.
• Strong knowledge of legislative, economic, and industry trends affecting public transit finance..

MVTA offers a collaborative and innovative work environment with a commitment to equity, sustainability, and community service. Even if your skill set doesn’t perfectly align, we value relevant experience, passion for making a positive impact, and a keen willingness to learn!

WORKPLACE ENVIRONMENT

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions which might include but are not limited to remaining stationary for extended periods, occasional movement throughout the department, and occasional transport of objects weighing less than 10 pounds. This position requires the ability to observe and analyze details at close range and communicate to exchange accurate information with others.

EMPLOYEE ADVANTAGES

• Healthcare: Access to medical, dental, and vision plans to keep you and your family healthy.
• Employee Assistance Program: Access support services for personal and professional challenges.
• Life and Disability Coverage: Gain peace of mind with life and disability benefits, ensuring financial security for you and your loved ones.
• Deferred Compensation: Build a foundation for long-term financial security with the flexibility and control provided by our deferred compensation plan.
• Retirement: MN PERA is a government pension program; employer and employee contributions are mandatory.
• Paid Time Off: Achieve work-life balance with paid holidays, vacation, and sick time.
• Investing in Your Growth: We invest in your professional development through a variety of continuous learning opportunities and programs.

EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY

MVTA believes in providing equal employment opportunities. MVTA will not violate any law prohibiting discrimination for or against any employee or applicant for employment based on race, color, religion, creed, age, sex, national origin, ancestry, marital status, pregnancy, familiar status, disability (including those related to pregnancy or childbirth), membership or non-membership in a labor organization, sexual orientation, gender identify, status regarding public assistance, genetic information, complaining in good faith to MVTA or public authority, or any other characteristic protected under local, state, or federal statute, ordinance, or regulation. Applicants and employees will be evaluated solely based on their conduct, their compliance with MVTA’s policies, practices, and legitimate expectations, and their performance and experience.