Welcome to San Diego International Airport, where our core purpose is to create an exceptional experience for both our community and visitors from around the world. It extends beyond just flights; we embody the vibrant spirit of San Diego itself—sunny, welcoming, and full of life. We are committed to attracting, fostering, and empowering a team of talented individuals who can deliver our strategic goals:
- Advance Airport Development
- Transform the Customer Experience
- Optimize Ongoing Business
- Cultivate Our Culture
Here, culture starts with each of us. Our workplace is shaped by mindsets that guide how we show up for one another: believing the best in people, collaboration, empathy, listening, and thoughtful decision-making. If you are ready to contribute to a team that values meaningful impact and enjoys the journey along the way, we invite you to apply today and help us connect our community to the world.
Why You'll Love Working at SAN:
- Location: The new Airport Authority Administration building, located on the San Diego International Airport campus and near the waterfront, providing stunning views of our runway, San Diego Bay, the Pacific Ocean, and the city skyline.
- Hybrid Schedule: This role follows a hybrid schedule with both on-site and remote work. On-site days are required, based on department needs, to support collaboration and business operations. Remote work flexibility is available on other days as determined by the department.
- Salary: The hiring salary for Accounting Specialist is $67,328-$72,041. The full pay range for Accounting Specialist is $51,790-$82,865. The hiring salary for Accounting Specialist under the School2SAN Program is $53,862.
- Benefits: You will enjoy 14 paid holidays, 18 – 33 days of vacation (PTO), parental and child care benefits, salary continuance for family & parental leave, tuition reimbursement, ensure your future with our retirement plan options including our comprehensive pension plan and 457 defined contribution plan. Plus, take advantage of our annual employer-funded Lifestyle Spending Account, designed to support your personal development and growth activities—and much more!
- Wellness: Enjoy a workplace that makes well‑being part of the daily routine! Tap into multiple on‑site gyms, unwind or brainstorm in outdoor workspaces, score fitness discounts for every level and goal, give back with volunteer‑time rewards, connect with financial wellness advisors, and explore scenic walking trails just steps from campus, all wrapped in a supportive wellness package designed to help you feel your best inside and outside of work.
- Application Deadline: XXXXXXXX. Applications will be reviewed after the closing date.
About the Job:
The Accounting department is looking for an AR Accounting Specialist with a structured, problem-solving focus on billing and revenue reporting to ensure transparent financial visibility across airport operations. This role is responsible for reviewing billing activity, processing cash receipts, monitoring payments, and ensuring accurate reporting in a dynamic airport environment for tenants and airline partners. As part of the School2SAN program, this position provides an opportunity for individuals who meet minimum qualifications to grow into the role through hands-on experience and development. Candidates who are early in their accounting careers or looking to build experience in a complex financial environment are encouraged to apply.
The impact of this position is tangible. By partnering closely with Treasury, Revenue teams, and Airline Relations, the Accounting Specialist ensures millions of dollars in tenant and airline revenue are billed accurately, payments are properly applied, and discrepancies are resolved quickly and professionally. This role researches billing and payment variances, supports reporting transparency, and helps ensure revenue aligns with contractual agreements.
The ideal candidate will enjoy structured work with daily accomplishment, problem-solving within established billing cycles, and communicating professionally about financial matters. This role offers exposure to multiple billing methodologies, large-scale transactions, and the opportunity to understand how complex airport revenue models function behind the scenes. With every reconciliation completed and every discrepancy resolved, this position strengthens the financial integrity that supports airport operations, capital projects, and long-term planning.
What is School2SAN? The School2SAN program provides entry-level opportunities for individuals with limited or no prior work experience. Our goal is to help students and recent graduates build their knowledge, skills, and confidence on the job, while gaining exposure to the wide range of careers available in aviation, public service, and infrastructure. You are eligible if you meet the minimum education requirements of the position. Individuals hired through this pathway begin at a lower salary and are automatically moved to the organization’s benchmarked series hiring salary once the minimum years of experience have been met. No prior work experience required—you’ll gain that here!
What You’ll Do:
- General Ledger & Revenue Reconciliation: Reconciles assigned revenue-related general ledger accounts; researches and resolves discrepancies tied to tenant and airline billing activity; ensures revenue aligns with contractual agreements and reporting.
- Billing Review & Cash Application: Reviews and verifies invoices across multiple billing methodologies; processes and applies large-scale cash receipts accurately and timely; ensure payments are properly credited to tenants and Authority accounts.
- Revenue Reporting & Transparency: Prepares and uploads billing and payment reports for tenant visibility; communicates professionally with tenants and airline partners; provides Revenue teams and Airline Relations with accurate updates on payment status and outstanding balances.
- Discrepancy Research & Resolution: Investigates billing and payment variances by reviewing contracts, rate structures, and supporting documentation; partners with Treasury and internal stakeholders to resolve complex issues efficiently.
- Financial Data Management: Maintains accurate accounting records using financial systems and spreadsheets; verifies coding and financial data integrity; coordinates with IT and departments to correct errors when needed.
- Month-End, Year-End & Audit Support: Assists with closing activities related to revenue and accounts receivable; prepares journal entries and supports documentation; responds to audit requests and supports compliance efforts.
The Skills You Need:
Financial Acumen — Understands accounting principles and internal controls; recognizes how financial transactions impact reporting, compliance, and revenue integrity.Analytical Thinking — Breaks down complex financial information; identifies patterns and discrepancies; traces issues methodically; and resolves problems using data and sound reasoning.Attention to Detail & Precision — Maintains high accuracy when working with large-dollar transactions, coding structures, and recurring billing cycles; consistently produces reliable work.Judgment & Accountability — Exercises sound independent judgment; applies policies and contracts appropriately; escalate issues when necessary; and takes ownership of outcomes.Professional Communication — Communicates clearly and confidently about financial matters; explains discrepancies diplomatically; builds trust with internal teams and external partners.Organization & Reliability — Manages multiple priorities within structured timelines; meets deadlines consistently; follows through on commitments; and maintains confidentiality.
About the Team:
The Accounting team is collaborative, detail-driven, and committed to financial integrity across the Airport Authority. From supporting the Annual Comprehensive Financial Report (ACFR) and monthly close processes to audits and capital project accounting, the team plays a direct role in ensuring accurate reporting and sound financial decision-making.
Our work spans accounts payable, accounts receivable, payroll and cash management, capital improvement projects, investments, and debt. This structure provides exposure to the full financial ecosystem of the airport, while allowing team members to build depth in their areas of focus. The team works closely with departments across the organization, values thoughtful problem-solving, and takes pride in producing reliable, transparent financial information that supports airport operations and long-term planning.
The Experience You Need to Have**:
- Two years of relevant accounting or financial experience with an Associate’s degree; or one year of relevant experience with a Bachelor’s degree in accounting, finance, or a related field; or an equivalent combination of education, training, and/or experience.
- This position is part of our School 2 SAN program, which supports early-career professionals in gaining hands-on experience in public service. Candidates may qualify with a relevant degree even if they have not yet met the minimum years of experience.
Preferred Licenses; Certificates; Special Requirements:
- Designation as a Certified Accounts Payable Associate (CAPA), Certified Public Accountant (CPA), Certified Accounts Payable Professional (CAPP), Certified Payroll Professional (CPP), Fundamental Payroll Certification (FPC), Certified Management Accountant (CMA), Certified Public Finance Officer (CPFO), Certification demonstrating advanced Microsoft Excel skills, or other nationally recognized accounting-related certifications.
**Don’t meet every requirement? That’s okay. At San Diego International Airport, we value your unique experience and your willingness to learn. Some roles require specific qualifications or degrees, but others don’t—and we're always open to individuals committed to growth and excellence. If this sounds like you, we encourage you to apply. And if it’s not the right fit, we’ll keep you in mind for future opportunities. We may have the perfect spot for you to land.
EEO Statement
It is the policy of the San Diego County Regional Airport Authority to provide equal employment opportunity (EEO) to all persons regardless of age, color, national origin, citizenship status, physical or mental disability, race, religion, creed, gender, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, genetic information, marital status, status with regard to public assistance, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local law. In addition, SDCRAA will provide reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities.
Physical & Mental Demands
Persons with disabilities may be able to perform the essential duties of this class with reasonable accommodation. Reasonable accommodation will be evaluated on an individual basis and depends, in part, on the specific requirements for the job, the limitations related to disability and the ability of the hiring department to accommodate the limitation. If you need any form of accommodation during the recruitment process, please inform the Talent Acquisition Partner (Recruiter).
Under California Government Code Sections 3100 - 3109, public employees are designated disaster service workers. The term "public employees" includes all persons employed by the state or any county, city, state agency, or public district. Disaster service workers are required to participate in such disaster service activities as they may be assigned to them by their employer or law.
