Accountant
O*NET-SOC: 13-2011.00
Examines, analyzes, and interprets accounting records to prepare financial statements, give advice, or audit and evaluate statements. Installs or advises on systems of recording costs and other financial and budgetary data.
About this Role
Accountants ensure financial records are accurate, compliant, and useful for decision-making, working with ledgers, statements, and reports that reflect a business’s performance. A typical morning might involve logging into an accounting system or ERP, reconciling bank and credit card accounts, and checking that invoices, payments, and expense entries are coded correctly. They prepare journal entries, review trial balances, and compile financial statements like income statements and balance sheets for internal review or external reporting. During month-end or tax season they work more intensely, assembling supporting schedules, checking regulatory rules, and coordinating with auditors or tax authorities.
A Day in the Life
9:00 AM
Review inbox and deadlines
Check emails from clients or internal teams, confirm filing dates and close schedules, and update a task list for the day’s priorities.
9:30 AM
Reconcile accounts
Match bank transactions to ledger entries, investigate discrepancies, and adjust journal entries so balances tie out correctly.
11:00 AM
Prepare reports or returns
Generate trial balances, draft financial statements or tax schedules, and populate working papers needed for review.
12:30 PM
Lunch break
Take a break to eat and briefly step away from spreadsheets before the afternoon’s focused work.
1:30 PM
Meet with managers or clients
Discuss financial results, explain notable variances, and clarify information needed to finalize reports or filings.
3:00 PM
Handle compliance and documentation
Organize receipts and backup, update checklists, and complete forms or notes required for auditors, tax agencies, or internal controls.
4:30 PM
Wrap up entries and planning
Post remaining entries, save workpapers securely, and note carry-over items to address during the next workday.
Tools & Technologies
Databases & Data Tools
- Microsoft Access
- Microsoft SQL Server
- Oracle Database
- SQL
- Best Software CPAPayroll
Accounting
- QuickBooks
- SAP Concur
- Accurate NXG
- AcorynSystems Activity Based Costing/Management ABC/M
- AdaptaSoft CyberPay
ERP Systems
- SAP
- PeopleSoft
- Accountants Templates JAZZ-It!
- AcornSystems Corporate Performance Management
- Cartesis ES Magnitude
Spreadsheets
- Microsoft Excel
- Google Sheets
Analytics & Science
- IBM SPSS Statistics
- SAS
- ACL Audit Exchange
- Arbutus Analyzer
- Guidance Software EnCase Enterprise
Document Management
- Adobe Acrobat
- Microsoft SharePoint
- Iron Mountain Accutrac records management software
- OmniRIM Records Management Suite
- Sage CPADocument Manager
Salary Details
Salary Distribution
Most professionals earn between $65K and $106K
| Percentile | Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th | $53K |
| 25th | $65K |
| 50th (Median) | $82K |
| 75th | $106K |
| 90th | $141K |
Certifications, Training & Memberships
Essential
Certified Public Accountant (CPA)
AICPA and State Boards of Accountancy
Requires meeting education and experience thresholds and passing the CPA exam, and is often essential for public accounting and senior financial roles.
Recommended
Chartered Accountant (CA)
ICAEW, ACCA, or Chartered Accountants Ireland
Provides a globally recognized qualification in financial reporting, audit, and taxation, widely valued in practice and industry roles.
Helpful
Certified Management Accountant (CMA)
Institute of Management Accountants
Specializes in internal management accounting, covering budgeting, performance analysis, and strategic financial management.
Professional Memberships
Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) membership
ACCA
Offers a professional accountancy qualification and ongoing membership with access to technical updates and CPD resources.
Work Environment
- Remote Work
- Hybrid (Remote + Office)
- Work Setting
- Traditional office / indoor
- Physical Activity
- Mostly sedentary
- Social Interaction
- Highly collaborative — frequent team interaction
- Schedule
- Extended hours common
Your Skills & Attributes
Skills & Competencies Matches (47)
- Reading ComprehensionGood Match
- Active ListeningGood Match
- SpeakingGood Match
- Critical ThinkingGood Match
- WritingGood Match
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Accountant a good career?
Accountant can be a rewarding career choice. Based on current data, the median salary is $82K and job outlook is stable (4% projected growth). Whether it's a good fit depends on your skills, interests, and values — take our quiz to find out how well you match.
What degree do you need to become a Accountant?
The typical education requirement for a Accountant is a Bachelor's Degree. However, requirements can vary by employer and specialization. Some professionals enter the field with alternative credentials or relevant work experience.
How long does it take to become a Accountant?
Becoming a Accountant typically requires about 4 years of undergraduate study. Additional time may be needed for certifications, internships, or on-the-job training depending on the specific role and employer requirements.
What is the work-life balance like for a Accountant?
The work-life balance for a Accountant is moderate, with some periods requiring extended hours or flexibility. Individual experiences vary based on employer, specialization, seniority level, and geographic location.
What is the job outlook for Accountant?
The job outlook for Accountant is stable. Employment is projected to grow by 4% over the coming decade. Labor market conditions can vary by region and specialization.