Accountant
Explore career information by location
How to become an Accountant
The first step to becoming an accountant is to get a degree in accounting or a related field. While some bookkeepers and accounting clerks can start as junior accountants and work their way up, more accountants earn their bachelor's degrees before joining the field. To advance in the field and/ or be able to submit documents to the Security and Exchange Commission (SEC), accountants must become Certified Public Accountants (CPAs). This requires an accountant to take additional courses and pass a national exam. Accountants may also choose to get additional certifications including Certified Management Accountant (CMA), Certified Internal Auditor (CIA), or a Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA).
What skills help Accountants find jobs?
- QuickBooks
- Accounting
- Accounting Software
- Account Reconciliation
- Bookkeeping
- Sage
- GAAP
- General Ledger Accounting
- General Ledger Reconciliation
- Microsoft Excel
- Financial Statement Preparation
- Pivot Tables
Career progression for Accountant
Education levels for Accountants
Based on the requirements of Accountant job openings on Indeed in the United States within the last three years.
Expected salary by experience
Based on resume data from Indeed users who reported working as an Accountant in the United States within the last three years.
Common qualifications for Accountants
- CPA
- Certified Management Accountant
- Certified Bookkeeper
- Certified Internal Auditor
- Driver's License
- Non-CDL Class C
- Enrolled Agent
- Certified Investment Management Analyst
- Certified Notary Public
- Certified Government Financial Manager
- Certified Accounts Payable Professional
- Certified Public Finance Officer
