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  • Accountant Job Description:...

Accountant Job Description: All Key Roles & Duties

6 min read · Updated on April 24, 2024

Ronda Suder

Use this accountant job description to design a job-winning resume.

Accountants help organizations make critical financial decisions and corrections. They do this in a variety of ways, including research, audits, and data input, reporting, analysis, and tracking. Accountants can be responsible for tax reporting and filing, reconciling balance sheets, helping with departmental and organizational budgets, financial forecasting, communicating findings with stakeholders, and more. An accountant job description will include this type of information, tailored specifically to the type of accounting position listed.

Why refer to an accountant job description?

If you're an Accountant looking to land your next job and need to update your resume , one of the best resources you can turn to is an accountant job description. By reviewing job description examples, you can identify what technical and soft skills , credentials, and work experience matter most to an employer in your target field. In this post, we share an example of an accountant job description summary, followed by responsibilities, requirements, and skills.

Accountant job description example

Accountant Job Description

Prepare balance sheets, profit and loss statements, and other financial reports. Accountant duties and responsibilities also include analyzing trends, costs, revenues, financial commitments, and obligations incurred to predict future revenues and expenses. 

Reports organization's finances to management and offers suggestions about resource utilization, tax strategies, and assumptions underlying budget forecasts.

Accounting candidates must be familiar with standard concepts, practices, and procedures within the [ field of focus ]. Astute at relying on experience and judgment to plan and accomplish goals. Performs a variety of additional tasks as assigned. A certain degree of creativity and latitude is required. 

Works under general supervision. This position will report to [title of supervisor or manager].

Requires a bachelor's degree in accounting or a similar area of specialty and two to four years of experience in the field or in a related area. An associate's degree in accounting might be acceptable.

Accountant responsibilities

Below the general job description summary, like the example above, you'll typically see a list of responsibilities, requirements, and necessary skills, as outlined in this section and the next two. 

Here are some of the accountant job description responsibilities you might find listed:

Prepare asset, liability, and capital account entries by compiling and analyzing account information

Document financial transactions by entering account information

Recommend financial actions by analyzing accounting options

Summarize current financial status by collecting information; preparing balance sheet, profit and loss statement, and other reports

Substantiate financial transactions by auditing documents

Maintain accounting controls by preparing and recommending policies and procedures

Guide accounting clerical staff by coordinating activities and answering questions

Reconcile financial discrepancies by collecting and analyzing account information

Secure financial information by completing database backups

Verify, allocate, post, and reconcile transactions

Produce error-free accounting reports and present their results

Analyze financial information and summarize financial status

Provide technical support and advice on management

Review and recommend modifications to accounting systems and generally accepted accounting procedures

Participate in financial standards setting and forecast process

Provide input into department's goal-setting process

Prepare financial statements and produce budget according to schedule

Direct internal and external audits to ensure compliance

Plan, assign, and review staff's work

Support month-end and year-end close process

Develop and document business processes and accounting policies to maintain and strengthen internal controls

Communicate effectively with clients

Contribute to a strong client relationship through positive interactions with client personnel

Communicate with Manager and/or Director on work status and client issues that arise

Accountant requirements

These are just a few of the job requirements you may see in an accountant job description:

Thorough knowledge of basic accounting procedures and principles, including the Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP)

Awareness of business trends

Experience with creating financial statements

Experience with general ledger functions and the month-end/year-end close process

Excellent accounting software user and administration skills

Accuracy and attention to detail

Aptitude for numbers and quantitative skills

Bachelor's Degree or Master's Degree in appropriate field of study or equivalent work experience

Intermediate understanding of accounting and reporting standards, gaining experience in researching as it relates to accounting issues

Experience with accounting software is a plus

Accountant skills & proficiencies

There are several hard and soft skills that are possibilities for an accountant job description. Hard skills are measurable talents learned through training and education. Soft skills are people skills that are generally acquired through experience and are difficult to measure. 

Below, we break them down by category, though you'll typically find necessary hard and soft skills listed together in the job description. 

Hard skills for an accountant job description

Corporate Finance

Reporting Skills

Reporting Research Results

Financial Data Entry Management

Scheduling and Monitoring

Problem Analysis and Problem-Solving Skills

Active Learning

Clerical Knowledge

Proficiency in Microsoft Office

Risk Analysis

Tax Returns

Certified Public Accountant (CPA)

Accounting Software

General Ledger Functions 

Balance Sheets

Data Analysis

Bookkeeping

Sarbanes-Oxley Act

Financial Audits

Certified Management Accountant (CMA)

Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE)

Certified Internal Auditor (CIA)

 Soft skills for an accountant job description

Attention to Detail

Deadline-Oriented

Confidentiality

Time Management

Organizational Skills

Communication Skills

Professionalism

Interpersonal Skills

Analytical Thinking

Self-started

Independent Worker

Creativity 

Tailor your resume

Referring to accountant job descriptions for resume development is a smart move to get your creative juices flowing. By reviewing the job descriptions, you can assess and make a list of what skills and experience you have that align with them. From there, you can incorporate them into your resume . 

Of course, you'll want to tweak your resume for each job you apply to. The good news is that you won't need to start from scratch if you have a strong initial version to work with. In that case, making minor updates to align with each job you apply to will be easy to do. 

Your resume aligned with the job description wins interviews

Use the example description and lists above to guide you in developing a resume to stand out and land interviews! 

Is your resume appropriately tailored to the accountant job description for the job you're applying to? Why not submit it for a free resume review to find out?

Recommended reading:

How to Use Action Verbs in a Resume

Whether or Not to Use a One-Page Resume

How to List Multiple Positions at One Company on Resume

Related Articles:

7 Signs Your Resume is Making You Look Old

Why a Simple Resume Layout is a Successful Resume

Software Developer Top Needed Skills

See how your resume stacks up.

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23 Accountant Resume Examples That Worked in 2024

Stephen Greet

Accountant Resume

  • Accountant Resumes by Experience
  • Accountant Resumes by Role

Writing Your Accountant Resume

A business is only as valuable as its finances, so successful organizations are built on a foundation of solid accounting practices. To be a successful accountant, you need to be diligent, organized, and an expert with numbers and financial data.

However, to get a role as an accountant, you need to rely on a completely different skill set:  resume writing . (And let’s not forget about cover letter writing! )

That’s where we come in. We’ve reviewed countless accountant resumes, distilling what works and what doesn’t into  23 accountant resume examples that you can use to help you get your next accounting job in 2024!

or download as PDF

Accountant resume example with 7+ years of experience

Why this resume works

  • Our special tip: avoid any images or graphics. Before a recruiter or hiring manager looks at your resume, a computer scans it for keywords, and graphics are hard for software to read. 
  • We’d also recommend putting your experience in reverse-chronological order. By putting your most recent job first, employers will see how you’ve progressed in your career.
  • Include the name of the company you’re applying to, the position you’re seeking, and what you hope to achieve in your next role.

Accounting Intern Resume

Accounting intern resume example with 2+ years of customer service representative experience

  • When you lack paid work experience, use relevant academic or personal projects to showcase your skills, passion, and capabilities.

Accounting Assistant Resume

Accounting assistant resume example  with 2 years of experience

  • In this resume, the candidate carried out a simulated audit of a fictional company and showcased multiple skills that will help them be a better accounting assistant. If you have similar experiences to talk about, you want to add them to your accounting assistant resume .

Entry-Level Accountant Resume

Entry-level accountant resume example

  • Because of your limited background in accounting, don’t worry about trying to extend or fluff your minimal experience.
  • Instead,  list any work experience and highlight transferrable skills , like written communication, data analysis, and research.
  • Try following a  resume outline  to help you organize your thoughts and ensure you’ve put everything you need onto a single sheet of paper.
  • Once you’ve completed the outline, you can use a  resume template  to format your content correctly and make it look great, too.

Junior Cost Accountant Resume

Junior cost accountant resume example

  • Using a  resume objective  can be a great decision if you’re having trouble filling the page or trying to provide hiring managers with more context as to why you want the job. 
  • But please be cautious and  double-check your resume  before submitting an application!
  • Imagine submitting your resume for a position at Instacart and realizing you left the name of another target company in your resume objective. Facepalm anyone?

Junior Accountant Resume

Junior accountant resume example with Global GAAP project experience

  • A ChatGPT resume builder can help you highlight your past accomplishments in any roles or projects that are related to finance or show your knowledge/ability to use an accounting tool. Personalize the objective as much as possible to convey why you’re so passionate about getting hired!

Senior Accountant Resume

Senior accountant resume example with 10+ years of experience

  • You can further support your work by adding metrics to  show how you’ve helped the company , especially when it comes to revenue.
  • But remember that even a spellcheck system misses things, so ask a colleague to review your resume! You’ll be amazed at what they’ll catch before you turn in your application.

Project Accountant Resume

Project accountant resume example with 7 years of experience

  • Ready to move your resume from the backlog to the done folder? First, let’s embellish it – use a different color to distinguish the header, and then choose a larger and legible font for section subheadings. You can even bolden them to improve visibility and make the resume easier to scan.

Senior Tax Accountant Resume

accounting job description resume

  • For your work history section, use numbers (and percentages, too) to back up your vast experience as a senior tax accountant. Take a look at how Kevin capitalizes on this strategy – Directing a team of six in conducting in-depth analysis…, …reducing errors by 12%, and improving financial reporting accuracy to a rating of 9 out of 10- effectively presenting himself as an outcome-oriented expert.

Payroll Accountant Resume

Payroll accountant resume example with 8 years of experience

  • Certificates like Certified Public Accountant (CPA) prove that you possess the necessary financial skills , knowledge, and experience to apply for this role! Don’t be too overconfident though. Ensure you back your certification with performance metrics that depict you as a diligent and hard worker.

Accounting Analyst Resume

accounting job description resume

  • As you tailor your accounting analyst resume hoping to get the job, include your measurable impact in expediting accounts, invoices, and response to ad-hoc request processing times.

Fund Accountant Resume

accounting job description resume

  • Felix’s example is the best answer to that question. Everything is displayed for the recruiting team to see and make a quick decision. Follow this lead to boost the chances of your application sailing through.

Accounting Specialist Resume

accounting job description resume

Cost Accountant Resume

accounting job description resume

  • What was your impact in similar or related roles? Tap into you quantifiable achievements, such as accuracy rates, reduction in operational expenses, and workflow improvements.

Staff Accountant Resume

accounting job description resume

  • Beyond just your education section, you can include your progress in a  resume objective  or a  resume summary .
  • A great way to do this is through the use of action verbs like “owned,” “led,” and “advised.”
  • It’s also a good idea to  show how you’ve made a positive difference  in the company. Use metrics to strut your stuff!
  • For example, did you increase revenue or efficiency? Discuss it with numbers and percentages that show your impact.

Forensic Accountant Resume

accounting job description resume

  • Unlike a  resume objective , a summary statement focuses on leveraging the abilities you’ve learned throughout your career.
  • Make sure your summary statement includes your years of experience in accounting and the company to which you’re applying (plus the job title). 
  • Start by putting your work experience in reverse-chronological order, meaning that your most recent work experience will be listed at the top of the page.
  • Then you can consider things like alignment, color, and consistency. Whatever you do, make sure your resume is easy to read at a glance!

Financial Analyst Accountant Resume

accounting job description resume

  • Have you joined or started a group for accountants? Maybe you’ve written a personal finance book? Or perhaps you occasionally discuss financial trends at events outside of work? These are on-point examples of using your skills in unique ways, so they’re perfect resume components.
  • Focus on including projects and volunteer experience that can demonstrate essential skills (like collaboration and communication). 
  • Look for similar structures, word usage, and metrics to see how you can make your resume pop.

Management Accountant Resume

accounting job description resume

  • Make sure that your  management accountant resume  shows your most relevant experience. Include your most significant accomplishments, like if you’ve led any projects or saved your company a lot of money.
  • Although your goal is to show your most relevant work, having a cohesive career progression is more important. Employers want to see that you’ve been consistently working.
  • Look for specific skill keywords and responsibilities listed in the job description and incorporate them into your work experience and skills section to make the best impact.

Certified Public Accountant (CPA) Resume

Certified public accountant (cpa) resume example with 10+ years of experience

  • To keep to a single page, make your bullet points short. Ideally, every point should be  one sentence  and a  maximum of three lines long .
  • List accomplishments and achievements by all means, but don’t clutter your space with empty adjectives or adverbs. Words like “successfully” and “as needed” are generally assumed, so leave them out.
  • Certifications need their own section, but you don’t need to add much more than the name of your certificate. You can include the organization that offers the certificate, but most hiring managers will know that information already, so don’t stress about it.

Onboarding Accountant Resume

Onboarding accountant resume example with 10+ years of experience

  • However, your  resume is not your cv . As hard as it is to break up with your old jobs, it’s for the best. The best resumes include just three to six of your most relevant work experience roles. 
  • Put yourself in the shoes of the hiring team reviewing 100+ resumes. What work experience would stand out and be the most relevant for the position?
  • And if you’re worried about forgetting or losing information from your work history that could be relevant later on, don’t sweat it. You can create a separate document with a “master list” of work experience that you can pull from for different jobs.

Accounting Clerk Resume

Accounting clerk resume example with 1+ years of experience

  • Think of the skills section of your resume as a peek into your technical prowess with accounting software. Any tools that help you do your job better are worth adding to this part of your accounting clerk resume .

Tax Accountant Resume

accounting job description resume

  • In this resume example, the candidate’s last job was as a tax accountant—the same position they’re applying to. Putting it at the top highlights what you’ve been able to achieve at your previous job.

Public Accounting Resume

Public accounting resume example with 6+ years of experience

  • Do you hold a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) certification? If you’ve completed your CPA, it’s proof that you have a license and the knowledge to provide accounting services to the public.

Related resume guides

  • Bank Teller
  • Accounts Payable
  • Financial Analyst

Job seeker reviews qualifications and accomplishments to build job application for next role

As an accountant, you know that precision matters. You’re expected to be an analytical expert who can produce reliable research and solve complex legal and financial problems. So, think of your resume not only as a place to highlight your experience but also as a place to demonstrate your attention to detail and high standard of work.

Boosting your resume’s potential requires special attention to these four areas: 

  • Listing accounting skills 
  • Formatting your accountant resume properly
  • Quantifying your previous impact
  • Customizing your resume to each job

accounting job description resume

List the right accountant skills

When recruiters post an  accountant job description , it’s not unheard of for them to receive upwards of 100 resumes. With the sheer number of applicants, companies can’t carefully review every accountant’s application. The applicant tracking system (ATS) software helps weed out applicants before a recruiter reviews them, which saves time and gets rid of candidates without the right experience.

Applicant tracking systems work by using algorithms that match keywords from the company to keywords in your resume. So even if you’re highly qualified for a job, your resume may be thrown out if it doesn’t include the right keywords. To avoid this, you need to know  how  to include job-appropriate  skills on your resume  (keywords). 

What are the right skills? The right skills will vary depending on the accountant role. Read this excerpt from a sample accountant job description and see if you can pick up on the essential skills: 

Greenhill is seeking a certified accountant who can tackle every level of the accounting process, from balancing ledgers to researching the law and analyzing data to ensure efficient and effective operations. This position is ideal for candidates who are jacks of all trades! Must possess strong public speaking and collaboration skills while demonstrating initiative and the capacity to conduct independent work. 

Based on this small sample, we can create a list of essential skills customized for the job.  You do  not  want to take exact words from the job description or lie about your skill level . Instead, use the accountant job description as a jumping-off point to think about the most relevant skills you possess: 

  • Accounting applications: Quickbooks, ERP, Concur, Taxjar
  • Tax accounting
  • Expense reporting
  • State law compliance
  • Accounts payable/receivable
  • Collaboration and communication
  • Data analysis and research presentations

On other accountant job postings, you can expect to see different skills emphasized, such as:

Accountant resume skills

Choose the best resume format

It’s not just about  what  you write on your accountant resume; it’s about  how  you write it. Your  resume format  is important for ensuring that your resume is visually appealing, easy to read, and easy for the ATS to recognize. For these reasons, we always suggest the reverse-chronological format to keep your most recent job experience listed at the top of your resume, but there are some other aspects of resume formatting you need to know.

Here are some other essential elements of resume formatting that you should pay attention to:

  • Resume length:  Always ensure your resume is a full, single-sided page.
  • Bullet points:  Break up large text sections about your work experience with classic round bullet points.
  • Avoiding icons/images:  The ATS does not seem to appreciate icons/images; neither will recruiters.
  • Listing the title of the position you’re seeking:  Specialize your resume for each job you apply for to show respect and genuine interest in the job. (This is especially useful for a company that may be hiring for multiple positions.)
  • Objective/Summary:  Only use one when necessary (hang tight—we’re about to cover this in-depth).

Remember these formatting tips, and you’ll be confident that your resume is ATS-friendly and easy to read for recruiters. 

accounting job description resume

Understand the elusive resume objective and summary

All right, back to the objective and summary.  A resume objective  is one of the most misunderstood sections of your resume. Most people think objectives are outdated and pointless, but that’s only the case if you don’t tailor them and keep them short. 

But what exactly is a resume objective? And what’s the difference between that and a resume summary? Let’s dive in!

A resume objective and summary statement are both short, two to three-sentence paragraphs at the top of a resume to express your interest in a position or a brief career synopsis. Both require customization and should be avoided if you don’t plan on writing a new one for every job application. 

Accountant resume objective

However, these two types of paragraphs differ in how they communicate interest in the job. An objective describes  the value you’ll add to a company  and  why you want the job . Objectives are best suited to accountants who are just starting their careers or going through a career change (like from a staff accountant to an accounts payable specialist). 

A  resume summary  highlights  your past work experience , leveraging it to  prove your qualifications and skills . Because the summary relies on many past job experiences, it’s only recommended for senior accountants with many years of industry experience. 

Let’s work through a few examples together, so you can better understand all the moving parts: 

Poor resume objective:  Years of experience in the industry, looking for a full-time job in the accounting field with benefits. 

  • There are multiple issues at play here. First, it’s uninformative. The applicant doesn’t list anything that provides concrete evidence of their skills. Secondly, it’s not specific. They don’t mention a particular job title, applicable skills, or the company to which they’re applying. Lastly, this candidate is only focused on what the job will do  for   them . You need to mention why you’ll be an asset to the company, not what the job will provide for you personally.

Better resume objective:  Detailed junior accountant with 4+ years of experience working for Big Four accounting firms. Seeking an opportunity as a staff accountant at a smaller-scale operation like Fender Co., where my specializations in optimizing pricing through software adoption and systems streamlining would positively impact sales. 

  • This resume objective makes the case that the applicant is valuable to the company by highlighting relevant skills and years of experience. Furthermore, it’s customized to the specific job the candidate is seeking, which is a major green flag for employers. 

Poor summary statement:  Experience as an accountant for 3 businesses. My role, which was providing organized, detailed work for all 3 companies, positively impacted the companies. 

  • This statement is vague and confusing, not to mention it’s poorly worded. Would you trust this person with your company’s financial accounts? 

Better summary statement:  Data-driven certified accountant with specialized work in small and mid-size businesses for 22 years. Dedicated to providing services that adhere to GAAP standards while optimizing operations and financial performance. Expertise in many types of accounting software relevant to business size, including Xero, QuickBooks, Zoho, and SAP. Experience supervising and collaborating across cross-functional teams and departments while increasing ROI by 5%+ YTD. 

  • This summary statement provides specific metrics, specialized skills, and a job title. It’s a great example of a strong statement that would impress a hiring team. 

accounting job description resume

Quantify your positive impact as an accountant

If you want to prove to a company that you’re an excellent accountant, you’ll want to focus on numbers. Quantifying your impact on your accountant resume provides concrete proof that you’re an asset to the company.

Fortunately, as an accountant, there are many ways to quantify your impact, such as:

  • Internal company operations:  Have you worked with company executives to propose financial incentives to improve employee retention? Have you instituted software adoption that reduced error rates? 
  • Leadership:  Do you manage, mentor, or collaborate with a team? Do you work across several departments? 
  • Work with vendors:  Do you assess vendor invoicing or review vendor statements? Do you manage accounts payable for vendors? 
  • Clients:  How many clients do you advise if you work with individual clients? How long have you retained these clients? 
  • Revenue:  How much revenue does the company you work for generate? How many assets do you oversee? How much have you saved in potential penalty costs? 
  • Reductions in error rates:  Have you reduced errors during employment at your past jobs? Do you use specific types of software to minimize mistakes? 

Based on the above, check out these examples that demonstrate how metrics can fuel your bullet points: 

  • Proactively identified and communicated potential problem areas related to a client’s reporting issue, saving the client $2K+ in penalty fees
  • Supported management in executing an employee equity compensation plan to improve employee retention by 11%
  • Led a team of 2 junior accountants, providing mentorship and feedback through weekly 1:1 sessions
  • Reconciled vendor statements in QuickBooks, investigating and correcting any discrepancies within 48 hours 

accounting job description resume

Optimize your accountant resume for each job

Unfortunately, you can’t just have one copy of your resume that you submit for every accountant job application. Every application deserves a tailored resume.

With the job description in view, these are the areas you’ll need to pay special attention to:

  • Objective/summary statement:  Remember how we encouraged you to include specific company names? One of an applicant’s worst mistakes is failing to change the company name on multiple job applications. Make sure you read over your statement (if included) before submitting your resume, changing the job title, skills, and company name.
  • Skills:  To customize your skills section, read the job description. Often, hiring managers will overtly say what skills are important for the specific accounting job (but be careful not to plagiarize). 
  • Job description bullet points:  Are you applying to a job that needs you to interface with clients? Or maybe you’ll be working behind the scenes with data? Think about how you can shift how you discuss your work experience to highlight what’s important for each particular job. 

We know it’s frustrating to focus on customizations when you want to submit multiple applications in a short amount of time. Consider creating a document with a master list of job description bullet points and skills, sorted into groups based on the skills you need to highlight (e.g., one section that demonstrates your accuracy, another for client interactions, another for public speaking, etc.). Then, you can pick and pull things from this document to create fully customized resumes in no time. 

For now, we think you’ll find something to help you get started on your accountant resume, no matter the exact role: 

Accountant resume 

  • Do you have experience in general ledger (GL) accounting? 
  • Remember, you don’t need to include all of these accounting skills in each position, but they must be covered at least once somewhere on your accountant resume. 

Senior accountant resume 

  • Underscore things like extensive improvements in efficiency rates, accuracy, and year-to-year financial growth. 
  • Have you collaborated with upper management to set company-wide standards or implement internal policies or financial work incentives? 
  • Highlight your ability to step into leadership and mentorship roles. 

Accounts payable resume 

  • Hone in on what matters by discussing payment processing and review, tracking business expenses (such as vendor invoices), and ensuring GL and GAAP compliance. 
  • Highlight your attention to detail and how it has saved revenue for companies you’ve worked for in the past.

Entry-level accountant resume 

  • You can leverage almost any job position to highlight particularly relevant skills in accounting. For example, a restaurant server can still balance payments, check receipts against bills, etc. 
  • Read the job description carefully, noting what skills are most important to the hiring team and emphasizing your capacity to work in accounting based on their requirements. 

Staff accountant resume

  • Your staff accountant resume should focus on general ledger maintenance/oversight, tax revenue billing, accounts payable/receivable, reports, and general record-keeping. 
  • Don’t forget to showcase your potential for job advancement down the road by highlighting any aspects in which you provided management/supervisory work. 

accounting job description resume

Final takeaway for improving your accountant resume

The hardest part of writing your accountant resume is getting started, so congratulate yourself on starting your resume journey! You’re one step closer to creating your best-ever accounting resume. We’ve laid out all the essential tips, including optimizing your skills section, formatting, metrics, and resume customizations, so you can write an amazing resume in no time. 

We also have a host of tools to make resume writing easier. See how your resume stacks up against our AI-powered tips. Or, if it’s time to  write your resume  for the first time, you can use our  resume builder  with built-in formatting standards and corresponding recommendations to keep the process stress-free, easy, and quick—leaving you time also to craft a killer  accountant cover letter  for your dream role. 

No matter what stage you’re at, we’re here to help, and we wish you the best of success!

Create my free resume now

Accountant Resume - Writing Guide & Example for 2024

Background Image

As an accountant, you’re a trusted individual that requires accuracy at all times.

You’ll be faced with many challenging tasks that you must get right, but perhaps you didn’t expect to face one so soon.

Your resume!

What does a good accountant resume look like, anyway?

With so many individuals competing for the top roles, you can’t leave any questions unanswered. 

But don’t worry, this guide has you covered!

  • An example of a finished account resume that works
  • How to write an accountant resume that’ll fill up your interview diary
  • How to make your accountant resume stand out [with top tips & tricks]

Before we get into the details, here’s an example of a finished accountant resume, created with our very own resume builder :

accountant resume

Looks good, right?! Follow the steps below to create an accountant resume that get results, just like the above example.

Check out these related resume examples if you're on the lookout for a different position in the field:

  • Bookkeeper Resume
  • Business Analyst Resume
  • Financial Analyst Resume
  • Bank Teller Resume
  • Banking Resume
  • Executive Assistant Resume
  • Consultant Resume
  • Administrative Assistant Resume
  • Office Assistant Resume
  • Career Change Resume

How to Format an Accountant Resume

Before you can impress the hiring manager with your accounting talents, you need pick the best format.

So which resume format should you choose?

The “ reverse-chronological ” format is the most used, and we understand why. The format is easy to read and allows the hiring manager to immediately see why you’ll make a great accountant. 

reverse chronological format accountant

The following resume formats can also work:

  • Functional Resume – If your accountancy skills are stronger than your on-the-job experience, this resume format is recommended. It’s also ideal if you have gaps in your employment history or have changed career path
  • Combination Resume – This format is a hybrid between the “Functional” and “Reverse-Chronological” formats. As such, it values both skills AND work experience. People use a combination resume when they have a lot of experience

Once your format is ready, you need to organize your resume layout .

Use an Accountant Resume Template

As an accountant, you present data in a structured way.

Your resume is no different.

You can try creating your own resume with Word, but you will likely run into a bunch of formatting issues.

This is why we recommend accountants to use a resume template .

What to Include in an Accountant Resume

The main sections in an accountant resume are:

  • Work Experience
  • Contact Information

Want to go a step further? You can also add these optional sections:

  • Awards & Certification

Interests & Hobbies

Read on to learn what to write for each of these sections.

You can learn even more by viewing our guide on What to Put on a Resume .

How to Correctly Display your Contact Information

Just like your client’s accounts, this section just needs to be factually-correct. 

Mistakes in this section can result in the hiring manager not being able to contact you – disaster! 

The contact information section must include:

  • Title – Align this to the exact role you’re applying for, which is “Accountant”
  • Phone Number – Check this for accuracy
  • Email Address – Use a professional email address ([email protected]), not your childhood email ([email protected])
  • (Optional) Location - Applying for a job abroad? Mention your location
  • Edward Fakester - Accountant. 101-358-6095. [email protected]
  • Edward Fakester - Numbers king. 101-358-6095. [email protected]

job search masterclass novoresume

How to Write an Accountant Resume Summary or Objective

Here’s a fact for you – recruiters only spend a few seconds on each resume !

But should we really be surprised by this?  

Well, not when you consider the competitive nature of the accounting market. 

This means you have to hook the recruiter in just a few seconds.

But how can you do this?

The answer is simple: use an objective or resume summary .

Essentially, these are powerful introductions that are placed on top of your resume.

summary for accountant resume

So, what is the difference between the two sections?

A resume summary is a 2-4 sentence summary of your professional experiences and achievements.

  • Accountant with a history of accurately and efficiently supporting accounting activities for a diverse range of clientele. 5+ years of experience in presenting data, analyzing cost control, providing financial reports, and delivering profit and loss statements under time pressures. Achievements include saving Company X $52,000 by fixing a tax reporting error.

On the other hand, a resume objective is a 2-4 sentence snapshot of your professional goals and aspirations.

  • Motivated accountancy student looking for a junior accounting job at Company X. Passionate about attention to detail and numbers. Experience balancing the books for local food stalls while at University X. Skilled in MS Office, FreshBooks, QuickBooks, Sage, and Microsoft Dynamics

So, which one is best, summary or objective?

Generally, experienced accounts should go with a summary. An objective is suited to those accounting graduates who lack the industry experience.

How to Make Your Accountant Work Experience Stand Out

An accountant’s job is all about accuracy.

As such, the recruiter needs to know that you can do a perfect job.

The easiest way to do this is to list your work experience.

Here’s the best structure:

  • Position name
  • Company Name
  • Responsibilities & Achievements

DiscoverGrowthDigital

03/2016 - 07/2020

  • Corrected account errors, which saved a total of $94,000
  • Set-up a digital accountancy system for a 10% efficiency increase
  • Processed 230+ Final Account Statements annually
  • Complied with company procedures and federal laws

To make your work experience stand out from the crowd, you should focus on your most notable achievements. That way, your value is clear to see.

Instead of saying:

“In charge of accounts”

“Corrected account errors, which saved a total of $94,000”

Simply, the first statement is way too generic. It shows you were in charge of accounts, but it doesn’t show if you were successful or not. 

The second statement shows that you saved the company $94,000. Hard numbers that prove your skills – nothing beats that!

What if You Don’t Have Work Experience?

Finished education and are now looking for your first accounting job?

Or maybe, you’ve learnt accounting from online courses, but have no real experience in the field?

No company wants to hire an inexperienced accountant.

But don’t threat – there are ways to show you have the skills to do a great job.

What really matters here is your accounting portfolio.

If you already have any examples of your accounting skills, feel free to upload them online and link it in your resume (we’re going to explain how in a bit).

If not, it isn’t too late.

Here are a couple of easy ways to build a portfolio (and get paid for it):

  • Use a freelance platform, like UpWork, to pick up some gigs
  • Offer your accounting knowledge to friends & acquaintances at a reduced price

If you’re a recent graduate, you might want to check out our guide on how to make a student resume !

Use Action Words to Make Your Accountant Resume POP!

…are just some of the words that are repeated in every single resume. 

Do you want to separate your resume from the competition?

Then use some power words to make your achievements stand out:

  • Conceptualized
  • Spearheaded

How to Correctly List your Education

It’s important for an accountant to have relevant qualifications.

With that said, you can keep your educational section simple.

Simply enter your qualifications in the follow format:

  • Degree Type & Major
  • University Name
  • Years Studied
  • GPA, Honours, Relevant Courses.

B.A. in Accounting & Finance

Boston State University

  • Relevant Courses: Finance Accounting, Foundations of Microeconomics, Management Accounting, Advanced Taxation, Auditing, International Banking

If you have some questions unanswered, the following information may help you: 

What if I am still in education?

  • Regardless of whether you’re a graduate of accountancy or still studying, you should still mention every year of education to date.

Should I include my education before degree level?

  • Generally, only include your highest education. So, include your high school education if you don’t have a relevant degree for accountancy.

What wins, education or experience?

  • Real accountancy experience trumps education, so work experience goes first on your resume. 

Still not sure? Check out our guide on how to list education on a resume .

Top 25 Skills for an Accountant Resume

You need to do two things when writing a skills section:

  • Look at the required skills that are listed in the job description
  • Prove you have the skills

It’s as simple as that!

Here are some of the most common accountant skills:

Hard Skills for Accountants:

  • Financial Statements
  • Asset Management
  • State Tax Law
  • Tax Compliance
  • Corporate Tax
  • Account Analysis
  • Regulatory Filings
  • Revenue Projections
  • Account Reconciliation
  • Profit and Loss
  • Tax Returns
  • Payroll Taxes
  • General Ledger

Soft Skills for an Accountant:

  • Creative Thinking
  • Communication
  • Time-Management
  • Organization
  • Generally, only list your best soft skills. You see, every applicant puts a massive list of soft skills that are hard to back-up. Anyone can say they work well in a team, but not many are well-versed in tax compliance.

Here’s a more comprehensive list of 101+ must-have skills this year .

What Else Can You Include in an Accountant Resume?

So, those are the most important sections to put on an accountant resume.

But you can do even more.

Covering the most important sections should get you shortlisted, but adding a few extra sections can get your resume to the top of the pile.

Awards & Certifications

Have you won an award in an accountancy-related field?

Have you completed a course to improve your knowledge?

Whatever it is, make sure to mention it in your resume!

Here’s an example:

Awards & Certificates

  • “Financial Accounting Fundamentals” – Coursera Certificate
  • “Apprentice of the Year 2016” – LUCA Awards
  • “Critical Thinking Masterclass” – MadeUpUniversity

Even though accountants deal with numbers, not words, being able to speak multiple languages is a useful skill to have. As such, list your languages if you have space.

Rank the languages by proficiency:

  • Intermediate

Now, you’re likely thinking, “why do I need to tell the recruiter about my book club?”

Well, your personal interests give an idea into the person you are.

Hobbies show that you’ll be a good part of the team, especially if you enjoy social activities. 

Here’s which hobbies & interests you may want to mention.

Include a Cover Letter with Your Resume

Want to separate your application from the competition?

Craft a compelling cover letter!

This personal piece of content shows the company that you want to work for them, which is in direct contrast to other applicants that send dozens of generic resumes.

Here’s how to structure a winning cover letter:

cover letter structure accountant

You should complete the following sections:

Personal Contact Information

Your full name, profession, email, phone number, and location

Hiring Manager’s Contact Information

Full name, position, location, and email.

Opening Paragraph

You don’t have long to catch the recruiters attention, so use concise language to mention:

  • The accountancy position you’re applying for
  • Your experience summary and best achievement to date

Once you’ve captured their interest, you can delve into the following specifics:

  • Why you want to be an accountant for the company
  • What you know about the company
  • How are your accounting skills relevant for the job
  • Which similar industries or positions have you worked in before

Closing Paragraph

End the letter in a friendly way, you should:

  • Conclude the main points of the letter
  • Thank the hiring manager for the opportunity
  • Finish with a call to action that allows the conversation to continue. We recommend, “At your earliest opportunity, I’d love to discuss more about how I can help company X”

Formal Salutations

End the letter in a professional manner. Something like, “Kind regards” or “Sincerely.”

For more inspiration, read our step-by-step guide on how to write a cover letter.

Key Takeaways

You’ve just given yourself the best chance of landing that accounting role. 

But before you go, let’s total-up everything you’ve learned:

  • Format your accounting resume correctly. Prioritize the reverse-chronological format, and then follow the best practices on content layout
  • In your work experience section, highlight your best achievements, rather than your daily responsibilities
  • Defeat the competition with a convincing cover letter

Suggested Reading:

  • Use Resume Keywords to Land the Job [880+ Keywords]
  • 101+ Achievements to List On Your Resume [In 2024]
  • What Is Your Greatest Accomplishment? [3 Proven Answers]

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Resume Worded   |  Proven Resume Examples

  • Resume Examples
  • Finance Resumes
  • Accountant Resume Guide & Examples

Accounting Specialist Resume Examples: Proven To Get You Hired In 2024

Hiring Manager for Accounting Specialist Roles

Jump to a template:

  • Accounting Specialist
  • Cost Controller
  • Financial Controller

Get advice on each section of your resume:

Jump to a resource:

  • Accounting Specialist Resume Tips

Accounting Specialist Resume Template

Download in google doc, word or pdf for free. designed to pass resume screening software in 2022., accounting specialist resume sample.

As an Accounting Specialist, you're often perceived as the 'financial lifeline' of a company. Your role requires you to masterfully balance numbers and ensure that the financial health of the company is spot on. It's a job that's all about precision and accuracy, and it's gaining more importance as companies evolve in this technology-driven era. With this trend, employers are increasingly looking for people who can navigate not only the traditional accounting tasks but also new age financial software and systems. Therefore, when crafting your resume, it's crucial to convey your in-depth knowledge in accounting principles, alongside your proficiency in financial software. In recent times, companies have been advocating for automation in accounting, aiming to reduce errors and increase efficiency. Not to forget, the accounting field is also adopting machine learning and artificial intelligence to streamline processes. As such, candidates who can demonstrate their adaptability to these evolving trends will have an edge. Your resume should highlight your willingness to learn and adapt, while also showcasing your expertise in the core accounting tasks.

An example of a well-structured resume for an Accounting Specialist role.

We're just getting the template ready for you, just a second left.

Recruiter Insight: Why this resume works in 2022

Tips to help you write your accounting specialist resume in 2024,    highlight your technology proficiency.

As an Accounting Specialist, you must emphasize your familiarity with accounting software like QuickBooks, Excel, or any other specific tools you've mastered. Mention any special certifications you have in these tools as it would demonstrate your initiative and proficiency.

Highlight Your Technology Proficiency - Accounting Specialist Resume

   Show Evidence of Your Accuracy and Precision

Accounting is all about accuracy and precision. Ensure to highlight any accomplishments or roles where you've demonstrated these qualities. Use specific numbers or statistics as evidence. For example, you could mention the percentage of accuracy achieved in your previous role or any error reduction initiatives you've spearheaded.

Accounting specialists may have wide ranging responsibilities such as maintaining financial records, processing payroll, generating reports, and making projections. To get this job, focus your resume on accounting skills such as balancing budget sheets, processing invoices, or managing account transfers.

accounting job description resume

   Uses effective action verbs to talk about achievements

When writing your resume bullet points, consider leading with verbs such as “conducted”, “streamlined”, and “spearheaded” to underscore the impact of your successes. Verbs like these ones show that you are proactive and take your career seriously.

Uses effective action verbs to talk about achievements - Accounting Specialist Resume

   Relevant technical skills in skills section

As an accounting specialist, you may need to use certain types of software in your daily duties. Create a dedicated skills section on your resume where you can list the programs you’re proficient with, such as Microsoft Access, QuickBooks, or NetSuite ERP.

Relevant technical skills in skills section - Accounting Specialist Resume

Cost Controller Resume Sample

Financial controller resume sample.

We spoke with hiring managers who recruit accounting specialists at companies like KPMG, Deloitte, and EY. They shared insider tips on what they look for in resumes, and how you can stand out. Here are some key things to keep in mind when writing your accounting specialist resume.

   Highlight your accounting certifications

Employers value accounting certifications as they show your expertise and commitment to the field. Be sure to prominently feature them on your resume. Some examples:

  • Certified Public Accountant (CPA) with 5+ years of experience in corporate accounting
  • Earned Certified Management Accountant (CMA) credential in 2020
  • Pursuing Certified Internal Auditor (CIA) certification, expected completion in 2023

In addition to listing the certification names, consider adding the year you obtained them or when you expect to complete them. This gives employers a sense of how recently you've updated your skills.

Bullet Point Samples for Accounting Specialist

   Quantify your impact with numbers and metrics

Numbers jump out on the page and quickly convey the scope of your responsibilities and achievements. Whenever possible, use metrics to describe your accounting experience. Here are some examples:

  • Managed accounts payable and receivable for a company with $50M in annual revenue
  • Processed an average of 200 invoices per month and reduced late payments by 25%
  • Identified and corrected errors in financial reports, saving the company $100K in potential fines

In contrast, vague statements like these don't tell employers much about your abilities:

  • Responsible for accounts payable and receivable
  • Processed invoices on a monthly basis
  • Corrected errors in financial reports

   Tailor your resume to the job description

Employers want to see how your skills and experience match their specific needs. Carefully review the job posting and tailor your resume accordingly. Here's an example:

The job description asks for:

Experience with QuickBooks accounting software and proficiency in Microsoft Excel

Your resume could say:

  • 4+ years of experience using QuickBooks to manage financial transactions and generate reports
  • Advanced Microsoft Excel skills, including creating complex formulas and pivot tables

By using the same keywords and highlighting your relevant skills, you show the employer you're a strong fit for the role.

   Emphasize your knowledge of accounting principles

Accounting specialists need a solid foundation in accounting principles such as GAAP (Generally Accepted Accounting Principles). Make sure your resume reflects your knowledge in this area.

Instead of simply listing 'Accounting principles' as a skill, try to provide concrete examples like:

  • Ensured all financial statements were prepared in accordance with GAAP standards
  • Deep understanding of GAAP, IFRS, and SOX compliance requirements
  • Completed 30 hours of continuing education in GAAP updates and best practices

The more specific you can be about your accounting knowledge, the more confidence employers will have in your abilities.

   Show your problem-solving skills with an example

Accounting specialists often face challenges like discrepancies in financial records or unexpected budget variances. Employers want to know you can handle these situations effectively. Use an example on your resume to highlight your problem-solving skills.

Investigated a discrepancy in the company's financial statements, traced the issue to an incorrectly recorded transaction, and implemented a new reconciliation process to prevent future errors.

An example like this shows you can:

  • Take initiative to identify and solve problems
  • Conduct a thorough investigation to find the root cause
  • Develop and implement solutions to improve processes

When possible, include the positive outcome you achieved, such as reducing errors or saving the company money.

   Include relevant software and technology skills

In today's digital age, accounting specialists need to be proficient in a variety of software and tools. Be sure to list the programs you're skilled in, such as:

  • Microsoft Excel
  • Oracle NetSuite
  • Sage 50cloud

Don't just list the names of the software though. Provide details on how you've used them and what you've accomplished. For example:

  • Used QuickBooks to manage accounts payable and receivable for 50+ clients
  • Created custom Excel macros to automate financial reporting, saving 10+ hours per month
  • Implemented Oracle NetSuite ERP system, reducing month-end close process by 25%

The more you can demonstrate your proficiency with industry-relevant tools, the more competitive you'll be as a candidate.

Writing Your Accounting Specialist Resume: Section By Section

  summary.

While a resume summary is optional, it can be a valuable addition to your accounting specialist resume if you have extensive experience or are making a career change. A well-written summary can provide context and highlight your most relevant qualifications, making it easier for hiring managers to quickly understand your fit for the role. However, avoid using an objective statement, as it focuses on your goals rather than how you can benefit the employer.

When crafting your summary, focus on your key strengths, experience, and accomplishments that align with the accounting specialist position. Avoid repeating information that is already covered in other sections of your resume, and keep it concise—ideally no more than a short paragraph. Remember, your goal is to provide a snapshot of your qualifications and entice the reader to learn more about you.

How to write a resume summary if you are applying for an Accounting Specialist resume

To learn how to write an effective resume summary for your Accounting Specialist resume, or figure out if you need one, please read Accounting Specialist Resume Summary Examples , or Accounting Specialist Resume Objective Examples .

1. Tailor your summary to the accounting specialist role

To make your summary stand out, tailor it to the specific accounting specialist position you're applying for. Research the company and job description to identify the key skills, experience, and qualifications they're looking for, and incorporate those into your summary.

For example, if the job description emphasizes experience with financial reporting and analysis, you might write:

  • Experienced accounting professional with a strong background in financial reporting and analysis, skilled in preparing accurate and timely financial statements for senior management.

In contrast, a generic summary that could apply to any accounting position might read:

  • Experienced accountant seeking a new opportunity to utilize my skills and contribute to a company's success.

2. Highlight your top achievements and value

Use your summary to showcase your most impressive achievements and the value you can bring to the organization. Quantify your accomplishments whenever possible to make them more impactful.

For instance, instead of simply stating:

  • Experienced in accounts payable and receivable

Provide specific details and results:

  • Processed over $500K in accounts payable and receivable monthly, ensuring 98% on-time payments and maintaining strong vendor relationships.
Results-driven accounting specialist with 10+ years of experience optimizing financial processes and driving efficiency improvements. Implemented a new accounts payable system, reducing processing time by 30% and saving the company $50K annually. Skilled in financial analysis, budgeting, and forecasting, with a proven track record of providing actionable insights to support data-driven decision-making.

  Experience

The work experience section is the heart of your accounting specialist resume. It's where you show hiring managers how you've applied your skills and knowledge to make an impact in previous roles. To create a compelling work experience section, follow these tips:

1. Use strong accounting action verbs

When describing your achievements, use powerful action verbs that highlight your accounting expertise. This helps hiring managers quickly understand the depth of your experience. Compare the following examples:

  • Responsible for preparing financial statements
  • Tasked with managing accounts payable and receivable

Instead, use action-oriented language like:

  • Analyzed financial statements to identify cost-saving opportunities, reducing expenses by 15%
  • Streamlined accounts payable process, improving on-time payments by 25%

Action Verbs for Accounting Specialist

2. Quantify your accomplishments with metrics

Numbers speak louder than words on a resume. Whenever possible, use specific metrics to quantify the scope and impact of your work. Here are a few examples:

  • Managed accounts payable for a $50M company, processing over 500 invoices per month
  • Reduced days sales outstanding (DSO) by 10 days through proactive collections efforts
  • Implemented new expense reporting system, saving the company $20K annually in processing costs

If you don't have access to exact metrics, use ranges or estimates to give a sense of scale.

3. Showcase your accounting software proficiency

Accounting roles require mastery of various financial systems and tools. Highlight your technical skills by mentioning the specific software you've used. For example:

Proficient in QuickBooks, Oracle NetSuite, and Microsoft Dynamics GP; used advanced features to automate reporting and improve accuracy

Be sure to include any ERP systems, database tools, or data analysis software you've worked with as well. Certifications in these programs can also set you apart.

4. Highlight promotions and increased responsibilities

Showing career progression within a company or role is a great way to demonstrate your value as an employee. If you've been promoted, make it clear in your work experience section:

Accounting Specialist, XYZ Company Senior Accounting Specialist (2019-Present) Accounting Specialist (2016-2019)

Even if your job title didn't change, you can still showcase how your responsibilities grew over time:

  • Took on additional duties as company grew, including managing payroll for 50+ employees and overseeing monthly close process
  • Promoted to lead role on annual audit preparation, coordinating across multiple departments to ensure timely and accurate documentation

  Education

Your education section is a critical part of your accounting specialist resume. It shows employers that you have the necessary knowledge and training to excel in the role. Here are some tips to make your education section stand out.

How To Write An Education Section - Accounting Specialist Roles

1. Lead with your highest degree

Start your education section with your most advanced degree. If you have a master's degree in accounting or a related field, list it first. Then, include your bachelor's degree and any other relevant degrees or certifications.

Here's an example:

Master of Science in Accounting, XYZ University, 2019 Bachelor of Science in Business Administration, ABC College, 2015 Certified Public Accountant (CPA), 2020

2. Include relevant coursework

If you're a recent graduate or have limited work experience, you can bolster your education section by listing relevant coursework. This shows employers that you have specific knowledge and skills related to accounting.

However, avoid listing too many courses, as this can clutter your resume. Instead, choose a few courses that are most relevant to the job you're applying for, like this:

  • Advanced Financial Accounting
  • Auditing and Assurance Services
  • Federal Income Taxation

3. Keep it concise for senior roles

If you're an experienced accounting specialist, your education section should be brief. Employers will be more interested in your work experience and accomplishments than your degrees from many years ago.

Here's what not to do:

  • Bachelor of Science in Accounting, DEF University, 1985-1989
  • Relevant Coursework: Intro to Financial Accounting, Intermediate Accounting I and II, Cost Accounting, Auditing
  • GPA: 3.8/4.0

Instead, keep it simple and focus on your most recent and relevant education, like this:

Bachelor of Science in Accounting, DEF University

  Skills

The skills section of your accounting specialist resume is a critical component that can make or break your chances of landing an interview. It's where you showcase your technical abilities, software proficiencies, and industry knowledge that align with the job requirements. A well-crafted skills section can quickly demonstrate to hiring managers that you have the necessary qualifications for the role.

In this section, we'll guide you through the process of creating a compelling skills section that highlights your strengths as an accounting specialist. We'll cover what to include, how to format it, and common mistakes to avoid.

How To Write Your Skills Section - Accounting Specialist Roles

1. Tailor your skills to the job description

One of the most important things to keep in mind when writing your skills section is to tailor it to the specific job you're applying for. Carefully review the job description and identify the key skills and qualifications the employer is looking for.

For example, if the job description emphasizes proficiency in QuickBooks and experience with accounts payable and receivable, make sure to include those specific skills in your resume. Here's an example of a tailored skills section:

QuickBooks (Expert) Accounts Payable and Receivable Financial Reporting Payroll Processing

By aligning your skills with the job requirements, you demonstrate to the employer that you have the qualifications they're looking for and increase your chances of getting noticed.

To ensure your skills section is tailored to the job, try using a tool like Resume Worded's Targeted Resume . It analyzes your resume against the job description and provides feedback on which skills and keywords you should include to improve your chances of getting past applicant tracking systems (ATS) and catching the attention of hiring managers.

2. Categorize your skills for easy scanning

Grouping your skills into categories can make it easier for hiring managers to quickly scan your resume and identify your key strengths. Common categories for accounting specialists might include:

  • Accounting Software : QuickBooks, Xero, SAP, Oracle
  • Financial Analysis : Budgeting, Forecasting, Variance Analysis
  • Compliance : GAAP, SOX, Auditing
  • Taxation : Corporate Tax, Sales Tax, Tax Reporting

By organizing your skills into clear categories, you make it easy for hiring managers to quickly identify your areas of expertise and determine if you're a good fit for the role.

Keep in mind that while categorizing your skills can be helpful, you should still keep your skills section concise and focused. Avoid including too many categories or skills that aren't directly relevant to the job. Stick to the most important skills that demonstrate your qualifications for the role.

3. Use proficiency levels to highlight your expertise

Adding proficiency levels to your skills can provide hiring managers with a quick way to gauge your level of expertise in each area. Common proficiency levels include:

  • Intermediate

For example, if you have extensive experience with QuickBooks and consider yourself an expert, you might list it like this:

QuickBooks (Expert)

On the other hand, if you have some experience with a skill but don't consider yourself an expert, you might list it like this:

SAP (Intermediate)

By using proficiency levels, you provide hiring managers with a more nuanced understanding of your skill set and help them determine if you're a good fit for the role.

When using proficiency levels, be honest about your level of expertise. Don't inflate your skills or claim to be an expert in areas where you only have beginner or intermediate knowledge. Hiring managers may test your skills during the interview process, and overstating your abilities could backfire.

4. Avoid common mistakes in your accounting specialist skills section

While it's important to highlight your skills and qualifications, there are some common mistakes to avoid in your accounting specialist skills section. One of the biggest mistakes is including generic or outdated skills that don't demonstrate your value as a candidate. For example:

Microsoft Office Data Entry Attention to Detail

Instead, focus on specific, relevant skills that showcase your expertise as an accounting specialist. Another mistake to avoid is including soft skills like "communication" or "teamwork." While these are important qualities, they don't belong in your skills section. Instead, demonstrate these skills through your work experience and achievements.

Finally, be mindful of applicant tracking systems (ATS) when crafting your skills section. Many companies use ATS to automatically screen resumes for key skills and qualifications. To increase your chances of getting past these filters, use the exact keywords and phrases from the job description in your skills section.

To ensure your skills section is optimized for ATS and free of common mistakes, consider using a tool like Resume Worded's Score My Resume . It analyzes your resume and provides instant feedback on over 30 key criteria, including your skills section. You'll get actionable tips on how to improve your resume and increase your chances of getting noticed by hiring managers.

Skills For Accounting Specialist Resumes

Here are examples of popular skills from Accounting Specialist job descriptions that you can include on your resume.

  • General Ledger
  • Account Reconciliation
  • Accounts Receivable (AR)
  • Financial Accounting
  • Bookkeeping
  • Bank Reconciliation
  • Management Accounting
  • Internal Controls

Skills Word Cloud For Accounting Specialist Resumes

This word cloud highlights the important keywords that appear on Accounting Specialist job descriptions and resumes. The bigger the word, the more frequently it appears on job postings, and the more likely you should include it in your resume.

Top Accounting Specialist Skills and Keywords to Include On Your Resume

How to use these skills?

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  • Accountant Resume Guide & Examples for 2022

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Accounting Specialist Resumes

  • Template #1: Accounting Specialist
  • Template #2: Accounting Specialist
  • Template #3: Accounting Specialist
  • Template #4: Cost Controller
  • Template #5: Financial Controller
  • Skills for Accounting Specialist Resumes
  • Free Accounting Specialist Resume Review
  • Other Finance Resumes
  • Accounting Specialist Interview Guide
  • Accounting Specialist Sample Cover Letters
  • Alternative Careers to a Accounting Specialist
  • All Resumes
  • Resume Action Verbs

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accounting job description resume

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Accountant Job Description

Accountant duties & responsibilities.

To write an effective accountant job description, begin by listing detailed duties, responsibilities and expectations. We have included accountant job description templates that you can modify and use.

Sample responsibilities for this position include:

Accountant Qualifications

Qualifications for a job description may include education, certification, and experience.

Licensing or Certifications for Accountant

List any licenses or certifications required by the position: CPA, CMA, MBA, II, FM, CA, ACCA, MRPT, CGA, VAT

Education for Accountant

Typically a job would require a certain level of education.

Employers hiring for the accountant job most commonly would prefer for their future employee to have a relevant degree such as Bachelor's and University Degree in Accounting, Finance, Business, Education, Auditing, Business/Administration, MBA, Performance, Public Administration, Engineering

Skills for Accountant

Desired skills for accountant include:

Desired experience for accountant includes:

Accountant Examples

  • Microsoft Word (.docx) .DOCX
  • PDF Document (.pdf) .PDF
  • Image File (.png) .PNG
  • Prepare journal entries and help ensure that the month-end close process is performed in a timely and accurate manner with a high level of attention to detail
  • Prepare and coordinate the compilation of monthly balance sheet reconciliations
  • Interface with Controller and other senior management personnel
  • Prepare/manage the timely issuance of monthly/quarterly financial report packages for local and group management review
  • Complete monthly close activities
  • Develop information tools/management reporting key operating activities
  • Build financial models and manage the analysis, reporting, and monitoring of operating results
  • Recording asset, liability, revenue, and expense entries by compiling and analyzing account information
  • Maintaining and balancing subsidiary accounts to the general ledger by verifying, allocating, posting, reconciling transactions
  • Assisting the financial analysis team with expense forecasting and budgeting when needed
  • Compile and calculate monthly sales commission statements
  • Ensure the station is complying with Sarbanes-Oxley Act rules and regulations
  • Participate in the forecasting and budgeting processes
  • Demonstrated initiative and ability to work without supervision
  • Minimum of 3 years' experience in a business or financial analytical role
  • Proven track record of developing and supporting creation of ad-hoc analysis
  • Perform monthly bookkeeping and accounting for clients
  • General accounting functions including, journal entries, general ledger maintenance and account reconciliations, and month end accrual preparation
  • Developing and implementing improved accounting policies and procedures
  • Perform other accounting and general office duties as required
  • Provides support in the initiations and review of the accounts payable transactions and settlement
  • Supports the preparation of monthly financial reports, including but not limited to variance analyses and other supporting documents as part of the Month End Binder Schedules
  • Provides support in the preparation of annual financial statements and other supporting documents for the statutory audit and tax filing
  • Supports internal management reporting / analysis or other ad hoc requests
  • Analyze and reconcile Information Technology spending to Business Plan which requires the ability to prepare detailed variance analyses
  • Assist in projecting certain Information Technology ongoing costs which requires a thorough understanding of current Information Technology projects
  • Flexibility, reliability and ability to manage multiple tasks
  • Knowledge of JDE (SAP by default)
  • Sound business and organizational knowledge, acquired through 2-3 years related work experience
  • Ability to work independently and as a member of a team where the accuracy and timeliness of data are critical
  • Attention to detail and thorough documentation
  • Minimum of 2-3 years of accounting experience in a large corporation or financial service industry
  • Consolidation of accounts for Singapore and properties
  • Handle wine purchase payments
  • Wine inventory tracking / reconciliation
  • Preparing journal entries and ensure that the general ledger activity is accurate and complete
  • Monthly preparation, review and analysis of assigned account reconciliations
  • Month end close responsibilities include assisting the accounts payable department with invoice processing
  • Assisting with the preparation of balance sheet
  • Interaction with internal/external auditors and prepare supporting materials during audits and quarterly reviews
  • Assisting with preparation of monthly Focus package to be submitted to firm’s regulatory department
  • Working closely with the Managers and Partners in all aspects of business management
  • License is preferable
  • Good in Maths
  • Ability to work as part of a team and on their own
  • Functional knowledge in peripheral disciplines like local taxation and statutory requirements PeopleSoft Financials would be strongly preferred
  • Solid knowledge of Microsoft Office applications, especially Microsoft Excel, is required
  • Ability to solve routine problems of limited scope and complexity following established policies and procedures to work under very general supervision
  • Acting as a liaison with external auditors and governmental agencies ensuring compliance with statutory reporting requirements
  • Other responsibilities and initiatives as assigned
  • Book and reconcile Daily Box Office and weekly Ticketmaster activity
  • Assist in preparation, depositing and posting of cash receipts to the GL
  • Responsible for all invoice preparation related to suite & sponsor activity miscellaneous other billings
  • Reconcile and analyze GL accounts including bank accounts, accounts receivable, prepaids, accounts payable, accrued liabilities, and other accounts as required
  • Prepare and/or upload various journal entries
  • Assist in reconciliation and processing of check runs as required
  • Ensure compliance with department policies and procedures 404 compliance
  • Cash Monitoring - ensure cash processing for internal and external accounts is accurate and well controlled
  • Tax Returns (VAT)
  • Min 2.2 Degree
  • Recently Qualified ACCA or CIMA is an advantage
  • Bachelor's Degree in Accountancy/Finance or ACCA equivalent with more than 3 years of finance & accounting experiences
  • Proficiency in written & spoken Mandarin
  • Exposure in Real Estate industry will be advantangeous
  • Complete internal daily, weekly & bi-weekly fund reporting including liquidity and investment metrics
  • Address ad hoc requests as needed
  • Handle financial reporting and month-end closing
  • Prepare handle full sets of accounts
  • Supervise accounts payable an administrative issues
  • Preparation of Markup revenues
  • Preparation of SISCOSERV (statement for international service)
  • Review the municipality statements
  • Preparation of variance analysis, as required
  • Overseeing the accuracy of inventory including troubleshooting and following up on inquiries
  • Detailed oriented, good work ethics, high proficiency in both written and spoken English
  • Fully competent in Excel, at intermediate to advance level
  • 2+ years of recent or current band touring Accounting experience
  • Strong understanding of Bookkeeping
  • Working knowledge of QuickBooks, Excel, and Word
  • 5+ years of midsize public accounting, mix of tax and financial statement preparation

Related Job Descriptions

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accounting job description resume

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VIDEO

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COMMENTS

  1. Accountant Job Description

    In order to ensure your professional resume will support your goals, use this accountant job description template to inform what you should highlight on your resume. By reviewing job description examples, job seekers will be able to identify what technical and soft skills, credentials, and work experience matter most to an employer in your ...

  2. 21 Accountant Resume Examples That Worked in 2024

    21 Accountant Resume Examples. That Worked in 2024. Stephen Greet January 22, 2024. A business is only as valuable as its finances, so successful organizations are built on a foundation of solid accounting practices. To be a successful accountant, you need to be diligent, organized, and an expert with numbers and financial data.

  3. Accountant Resume Examples and Template for 2024

    Accountant Resume Examples and Template for 2024. Indeed Editorial Team. Updated February 12, 2024. An accountant is a professional in finance who helps clients manage their money. Many finance professionals pursue this career path because it can offer excellent job security and competitive pay, especially after gaining some experience.

  4. Accountant Resume Examples for 2024 (Skills & Templates)

    Accountant Job Description for a Resume. RIGHT; American Express. Senior CPA. 2013-2018. Supported general accounting functions for monthly close process. Improved use of cloud computing best practices to enhance data security and save 800 hours per year, saving the department $800,000 annually.

  5. 10+ Accounting Resume Examples and Writing Tips

    5. Use key action verbs. Include resume action verbs in your accounting resume to add depth, clarity, and purpose to your work history. Action verbs make great openers for experience bullet points because they provide employers with more details about your previous roles and make you sound like a confident applicant.

  6. Accountant Resume

    Here's an example: Accountant. DiscoverGrowthDigital. 03/2016 - 07/2020. Corrected account errors, which saved a total of $94,000. Set-up a digital accountancy system for a 10% efficiency increase. Processed 230+ Final Account Statements annually. Complied with company procedures and federal laws.

  7. Accountant Resume Examples Templates & Tips

    Check out our resume examples for accountants to get inspired, or explore accountant job descriptions for resume skill ideas. Work history. Start with your most recent or current job and work backward. List the job title, company name, dates of employment and location for each position you have held.

  8. Accountant Resume Examples & Samples for 2024

    Accountant Resume Examples. Accountants perform accounting tasks like preparing financial records, taxes, and financial reports for their clients. Example resumes of Accountants reflect such responsibilities as reporting to superiors regarding finances, assisting the chief accountant in financial matters, and preparing financial records and ...

  9. Accountant Resume Examples & Writing Tips (2024)

    Advanced applicant tracking systems may use algorithms to assist in screening resumes. They may look for keywords that are aligned with the job description, then pass forward those that rank highest. For example, an accountant job posting may include the following requirements: "Proficiency in various accounting software."

  10. Accountant Resume Examples, Skills and Keywords

    Make a list of all the times your skills helped your previous employer and put the most relevant examples in your resume under the specific job title. 3. Tailor your relevant keywords. Many hiring managers and recruiters rely on ATS to immediately filter out resumes that don't fit the job. Before submitting your accountant resume, look ...

  11. Accountant Job Description [+2024 TEMPLATE]

    Responsibilities. Manage all accounting transactions. Prepare budget forecasts. Publish financial statements in time. Handle monthly, quarterly and annual closings. Reconcile accounts payable and receivable. Ensure timely bank payments. Compute taxes and prepare tax returns. Manage balance sheets and profit/loss statements.

  12. Accountant Resume Examples & Templates for 2024

    Accounting Resume Example—Job Description. Even with no professional experience for your resume, your staff accountant resume can get attention. Use projects, pro-bono work, and volunteering like this entry-level accountant resume sample: Accounting Experience. Various 2011-2010.

  13. 34 Accountant Resume Examples for 2024

    Tailor your resume to the specific job description. Customize your resume for each job application by highlighting the skills and experiences that are most relevant to the position. For example, if the job description emphasizes experience with tax accounting, make sure to focus on your tax-related projects and achievements.

  14. Accounting Resume Examples, Skills and Keywords

    Bookkeeper resume example. While accountants are responsible for high-level financial decisions, bookkeepers handle the daily tasks of a business. Bookkeepers record routine transactions and make sure the financial records are accurate. Companies that don't have a staff accountant will often have a staff bookkeeper.

  15. JobHero: Accounting Resume Examples

    Accounting Resume Examples. The numbers are in your favor — you just arrived at our collection of 101 accounting resume examples plus three key resume-writing tips that will help you top the competition for the job you're after. Welcome to JobHero. JobHero's most-requested resume in this field is for an accountant.

  16. Accounting Resume Examples and Guides

    The average salary for an accounting job in the United States in 2021 was $77,250 per year, but the average salary for a professional accountant will differ depending on their chosen industry. For example: Finance and insurance: $79,310.00 average salary per year. Management of companies and enterprises: $78,540.00 average salary per year.

  17. Accounting Specialist Resume Examples for 2024

    The job description asks for: Experience with QuickBooks accounting software and proficiency in Microsoft Excel. Your resume could say: 4+ years of experience using QuickBooks to manage financial transactions and generate reports. Advanced Microsoft Excel skills, including creating complex formulas and pivot tables.

  18. Accountant Job Description [Updated for 2024]

    Please provide your resume and cover letter stating *Accountant *in the subject line. Job Type: Full-time Salary: From $85,000.00 per year Benefits: Dental care; Extended health care; ... When writing an accountant job description, start by introducing the job and company to prospective accountants. Briefly highlight the work environment, what ...

  19. Accounting Clerk Resume Example, Job Description, & Skills

    To tailor your resume: Put your most recent job title first. Include the business name and the dates you worked (months too). Write a 2-line accounting clerk job description. Add 3-6 bullet points. (More in recent jobs, less in older ones) Pack those bullets with accomplishments. That's compelling!

  20. Accountant Job Description

    Accountant Job Description. Accountant. Job Description. 4.5. 193 votes for Accountant. Accountant provides technical assistance, review work, and ensure bank ledgers and reports produced by the accounting team are complete, accurate and in conformance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP), federal regulations and state law.

  21. 11 Accounting Skills To List on Your Resume (With Samples)

    When preparing a resume for a job in accounting, there are several skills to consider that demonstrate your ability to perform the job duties. Skills to include on an accounting resume include: ... Dates of tenure c. Description of role and achievements; Education; Skills; Optional (Awards & Achievements, Hobbies & Interests)

  22. Accounting Associate Job Description & Resume Examples

    The Accounting Associate position plays a critical role in ensuring the smooth operation of an organization's financial system. Accounting associates are responsible for maintaining accurate financial records, preparing financial reports, and performing other accounting duties such as accounts payable, accounts receivable, and payroll processing. They work hand-in-hand with the accounting ...

  23. Accounting Assistant Resume: Sample, Job Description & Tips

    Hobbies and interests. Pro Tip: Put hobbies on your resume to show the recruiter more than your professional self. However, avoid irrelevant or generic interests, such as playing the guitar or reading books. 7. Attach an Accounting Assistant Resume Cover Letter.

  24. Professional Accounting Associate Resume Examples

    Accounting Associate. 9/1/2002 - 1/1/2010. Company Name. City, State. Assisted in analyzing past sales data and generating a progress report comparing current data with last year's projections. Responsible for continually collecting data that assisted in developing sales trend models. Worked as part of a team that gathered and processed ...