What Types of Jobs are Available with an Accounting Degree?

Accounting DegreeThere are many types of jobs available with an accounting degree. This is because accounting is a field that will always be in high demand. Here are four different positions that you may find in the accounting field.

Staff Accountant

Accounting graduates often start out as staff accountants, who have a variety of duties. They process account reports, schedules and reconciliations. They are usually assigned specific duties related to collections, cash receipts and accounts receivables. This may include payroll analysis, month end processing and expense variance analysis. Experienced staff accountants work with other departments to resolve system issues and improve business processes. Most staff accountants have an accounting degree with two to three years of experience in a customer focused environment. Staff accountants should have working knowledge of Excel, Quicken and QuickBooks. They also need the ability to analyze and problem solve while working with limited supervision in a team environment.

Internal Auditor

Internal auditors examine and analyze accounting records to verify accuracy and consistency. They prepare financial reports concerning accounting performance and operating procedures that are submitted to leaders. Audits involves numerical data reviews of assets, income, liabilities, expenditures and capital stock and surplus. They inspect accounting ledgers and software to determine if standard accounting procedure are followed. This involves reviewing purchases, payments, expenses and inventory items. Internal auditors must have strong technical and organizational skills so they can plan complex audits and use accounting related programs. They must stay up-to-date on the latest GAAP practices and regulations.

Payroll Accountant

Payroll accountants are primarily responsible to complete payroll processes and transactions. Depending on the size of the company, they may be responsible for timely and accurately submitting payroll on varying pay cycles for hundreds of employees in multiple states. Payroll accountants maintain employee records, prepare journal entries and perform bookkeeping duties. Some payroll accountants manage employee 401(k) contributions, wage garnishments and deductions for benefits. These payroll accountants will perform light HR duties, such as processing worker’s comp claims and benefits administration. Payroll accountants must have solid knowledge of accounting principles and financial statements.

Accounting Supervisor

Accounting supervisors manage daily accounting functions and processes. They supervise accounting staff and work closely with managers to ensure that GAAP accounting are followed. They oversee month-end closing process, which includes reviewing journal entry reviews, preparing financial statements and generating corporate reports. Every month, they inspect general ledgers, create financial forecasts and perform variance analysis. Every year, they participate in internal audits and budget creations. Accounting supervisors should be familiar with tax reporting requirements, internal control reviews and compliance regulations. They must have the ability to handle multiple priorities and projects.

Related Resource: Finance Degree Jobs

To wrap up, accountant salaries vary based on position and region, according to Salary.com. Most entry-level accountants earn an average salary starting at $45,000 per year. Managers and highly skilled accountants may earn up to $100,000 per year. The managerial types of jobs available with an accounting degree also include regional accounting director, chief financial officer and senior comptroller.