A Job in the Growing Accounting Field

According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, the accounting field is experiencing tremendous and steady growth. Qualified accountants will never fall short of jobs as they are needed in all public and private organizations whether big or small. If you love to work with numbers and math is one of your better subjects, then accounting is the right field you should pursue.

Today, accounting has become a popular career choice. Accountants have the option of working in large companies, independently or even as a bookkeeper with smaller businesses. When you are applying for a job, previous experience in the field is recommended.

Qualifications



You need to have an extensive education in the accountancy domain to become an accountant. You cannot become a full charge accountant with only an Associate's degree, though other related jobs in the field are possible like include tax preparers, bookkeepers and payroll clerks. In the field of accounting, the minimum acceptable degree is a four year Bachelor's degree, though some employers prefer a candidate with advanced education beyond this level. The Certified Public Accountant Exam is necessary if you want to work in an SEC registered company. There are four parts to the exam and you will need to clear all within 18 months. In some states, experience is essential before you take the exam.

Skills Required

In any accounting area, knowledge of spreadsheets, business procedures and word processing will help. Other important features include good communication skills, organization skills and a good knowledge of mathematics. Since you also have to deal with deadlines and clients, interpersonal skills are important while working on the job.

Options Available

As an accountant there are a variety of job options open for you. Either you can work as self employed accountant or you can work in private or government sector. If you are a certified public accountant the doors to a higher pay scale are open for you. By working as an accountant clerk you can advise your clients about risk assessment, investment, budgets and taxes. Auditors, on the other hand, maintain records and ensure that proper taxes are paid.

Salary and Prospects

Salaries earned depend on various factors. You must take your geographic location as well as the industry your job is in into account. If you get a job with the Federal Government, your salary may be $80,000 on average whereas you can expect lower payments in state governments. While trying to get a job, an Associate's degree will help though the jobs will come with less responsibility and pay. The accounting business is expected to keep growing as the economy grows. Along with the economy, the need for bookkeepers, accountants and auditors will also grow proportionally.

The average salary in the accounting industry is approximately $55,000. The top earners in the accounting field earn nearly $90,000 whereas lowest salary on an average stays at approximately $32,000. If you have a Bachelor's degree, you can expect a salary of $47,000 per year whereas starting salary with a master degree is approximately $50,000. Managers in the same profession earn up to $102,000 whereas directors of accounting firms earn salaries up to $208,000. The benefits included with the salary are paid vacation, retirement plans and insurance. Senior accountants receive an expense account and a company car as well.