Entry-Level Accountant Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the era of financial digitization, the need for entry-level accountants is more critical than ever.

As financial landscapes evolve, the demand for talented individuals who can efficiently manage, analyze, and protect our financial records heightens.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from an entry-level accountant?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the nuances of this role,
• A hiring manager outlining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply fascinated by the intricate world of accounting,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a customizable entry-level accountant job description template, structured for easy posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right in.

Entry-Level Accountant Duties and Responsibilities

Entry-Level Accountants perform a variety of tasks related to financial record keeping and reporting, with a focus on accuracy and compliance with regulations.

They assist senior accountants and financial managers and play a significant role in a company’s financial operations.

Entry-Level Accountants are primarily responsible for directly assisting in financial matters, with daily duties and responsibilities including:

• Assisting in the preparation of financial statements
• Analyzing and maintaining ledger accounts
• Preparing bank deposits and general ledger postings
• Reconciling financial discrepancies by collecting and analyzing account information
• Assisting in the processing of balance sheets, income statements and other financial statements according to legal and company accounting and financial guidelines
• Reviewing and verifying the accuracy of journal entries and accounting classifications assigned to various records
• Completing tax forms
• Assisting with audits
• Participating in budgeting processes
• Maintaining financial security by following internal controls
• Ensuring compliance with federal, state, and company policies, regulations, and laws

 

Entry-Level Accountant Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking an enthusiastic Entry-Level Accountant to join our team.

The primary responsibilities of this role will include supporting our financial department by performing daily accounting tasks to ensure the functionality and efficiency of the department.

The ideal candidate for this role will be familiar with bookkeeping, auditing, and basic accounting procedures.

They should be capable of managing daily financial transactions, including expenses, payroll, and sales revenues.

The goal of the Entry-Level Accountant is to maintain our company’s financial health and make sure our accounting operations run smoothly.

 

Responsibilities

• Post and process journal entries to ensure all business transactions are recorded
• Update accounts receivable and issue invoices
• Assist in the processing of balance sheets, income statements, and other financial statements according to legal and company accounting and financial guidelines
• Update financial data in databases to ensure that information will be accurate and immediately available when needed
• Prepare and submit weekly/monthly reports
• Assist senior accountants in the preparation of monthly/yearly closings
• Assist with other accounting projects

 

Qualifications

• BSc or Associate’s degree in Accounting, Finance or relevant field
• Understanding of basic bookkeeping and accounting principles
• Proven ability to calculate, post and manage accounting figures and financial records
• Data entry skills along with a knack for numbers
• Hands-on experience with spreadsheets and proprietary software
• Proficiency in English and in MS Office
• High degree of accuracy and attention to detail

 

Benefits

• 401(k) plan
• Health, dental and vision insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Entry-Level Accountant
• Work Environment: This is primarily an office-based role with the potential for remote work.
• Reporting Structure: The Entry-Level Accountant will report directly to the Senior Accountant or Accounting Manager.
• Salary: Salary will be based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $45,000 minimum to $60,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does an Entry-Level Accountant Do?

Entry-Level Accountants are typically employed by corporations, small businesses, and accounting firms.

They can also work as self-employed individuals offering services to various clients.

Their primary role is to assist senior accountants in managing financial transactions and ensuring the company’s records are accurate.

They are responsible for preparing financial statements, managing bills and invoices, performing tax-related tasks, and assisting in budget preparation.

Entry-Level Accountants also help in maintaining the general ledger by verifying and posting account transactions, reconciling account balances, and generating financial reports.

They play a crucial role in ensuring that all financial records adhere to laws and regulations, and company policies.

They may also be involved in auditing activities, working under the guidance of senior accountants or auditors, to ensure the financial operations and practices of the company are in compliance with statutory legislation and regulations.

Additionally, Entry-Level Accountants may conduct internal financial analyses, prepare and deliver financial forecasts and risk analysis reports, and participate in financial standard setting.

In performing their role, Entry-Level Accountants employ various accounting software to improve efficiency and accuracy in their work.

They are expected to maintain confidentiality and exercise discretion concerning the management of financial information.

 

Entry-Level Accountant Qualifications and Skills

An entry-level accountant should possess a blend of technical knowledge, soft skills, and attention to detail to ensure accuracy and efficiency in all accounting tasks, including:

• Solid understanding of basic bookkeeping and accounting payable/receivable principles to ensure accurate financial reporting and record keeping.
• Proficiency with accounting software, as well as Microsoft Excel, to manage and analyze financial data.
• Strong mathematical skills for precise calculation and analysis of financial information.
• Excellent organizational skills to manage a multitude of invoices, data, and documents efficiently and orderly.
• Strong communication skills to effectively interact with colleagues and clients, and to prepare clear, concise financial reports.
• High level of attention to detail and accuracy to ensure all financial data is correct and up-to-date.
• Problem-solving skills to identify discrepancies in financial data and rectify errors.
• Knowledge of business principles and ethics to ensure compliance with company and industry regulations.
• Demonstrated integrity and confidentiality regarding sensitive financial information.

 

Entry-Level Accountant Experience Requirements

Entry-level accountants typically have a Bachelor’s degree in accounting or a related field.

Some might have up to 1 to 2 years of experience gained through internships or part-time roles in accounting, finance, or business.

This initial experience is often spent learning to prepare financial statements, manage accounts payable and receivable, perform tax work, and assist with audits.

Familiarity with accounting software and strong excel skills are usually expected.

Entry-level accountants who have more than 2 years of experience often have developed a deeper understanding of financial regulations and laws, honed their analytical skills, and become adept at problem-solving.

Those with more than 3-4 years of experience may have some supervisory experience or have worked with larger teams, and could be ready to transition into a senior accountant or management role.

They may also have completed or be working towards certification as a Certified Public Accountant (CPA), which will further increase their career prospects.

 

Entry-Level Accountant Education and Training Requirements

Entry-Level Accountants typically have a bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field.

They need a strong foundation in accounting principles, tax laws, and financial reporting.

They are also expected to have good analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills.

Many employers prefer Entry-Level Accountants who have completed the Certified Public Accountant (CPA) examination, which enhances the individuals’ professional credibility.

The CPA exam requirements include a combination of education and experience.

For career advancement, some Entry-Level Accountants may choose to pursue a master’s degree in accounting or business administration.

Continuing education is also crucial in this field, as accountants must stay updated with ever-changing tax laws and regulations.

Additionally, they may seek certifications in specific areas of accounting, such as auditing, management accounting, or forensic accounting.

In addition to formal education and certifications, practical experience through internships or part-time jobs is highly valuable.

Practical experience often provides the hands-on training necessary for understanding the nuances of the accounting field.

 

Entry-Level Accountant Salary Expectations

An Entry-Level Accountant makes an average of $49,749 (USD) per year.

The salary can vary depending on education, certifications, additional skills, and the number of years spent in the profession.

The geographical location can also significantly impact the salary range.

 

Entry-Level Accountant Job Description FAQs

What skills does an Entry-Level Accountant need?

Entry-Level Accountants should have strong numerical and analytical skills, along with a keen attention to detail.

They should also have good knowledge of accounting principles and practices.

Proficiency in using accounting software and Microsoft Excel is often required.

Good communication skills, both written and verbal, are also essential as they will be interacting with clients and colleagues.

 

Do Entry-Level Accountants need a degree?

Yes, typically an Entry-Level Accountant will need a Bachelor’s degree in accounting or a related field.

Some employers may also prefer candidates who are working towards a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) designation or already have it.

 

What should you look for in an Entry-Level Accountant’s resume?

Apart from a degree in accounting or related field, look for any internships or part-time jobs that involve accounting work.

Proficiency in accounting software and Excel is a must.

It’s also beneficial if they have experience working in a team or handling client relationships.

Any certifications like CPA or ACCA can also be valuable.

 

What qualities make a good Entry-Level Accountant?

A good Entry-Level Accountant is detail-oriented and has strong analytical skills to review large amounts of data and spot discrepancies.

They should be able to manage time effectively to meet deadlines.

Good communication skills are necessary to liaise with clients and team members.

They should also have a strong ethical code to handle sensitive financial information.

 

How can an Entry-Level Accountant progress in their career?

An Entry-Level Accountant can progress in their career by gaining experience in different accounting areas, earning certifications like the CPA, and pursuing further education like a master’s degree in accounting or business administration.

They can move on to roles such as Senior Accountant, Accounting Manager, or even Chief Financial Officer (CFO) in the long run.

 

Is it difficult to hire Entry-Level Accountants?

The difficulty of hiring an Entry-Level Accountant largely depends on the job market and the specific requirements of the role.

However, given the number of graduates in accounting and related fields, generally, there is a good pool of candidates to choose from.

The challenge might be in identifying those with the right mix of technical skills, practical experience, and cultural fit for your organization.

 

Conclusion

So there you have it.

Today, we’ve dug into the nuts and bolts of what it really means to be an entry-level accountant.

And guess what?

It’s not just about crunching numbers.

It’s about sculpting the financial future, one transaction at a time.

With our user-friendly entry-level accountant job description template and real-world examples, you’re all set to make a move.

But why stop there?

Delve further with our job description generator. It’s your next step to crafting precise job listings or refining your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every financial transaction is a piece of the bigger puzzle.

Let’s build that future. Together.

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