Accountant job description: requirements, day-to-day, and key skills in 2026

Thinking about starting a career in accounting? Figuring out whether to hire one for your small business? Whatever the case may be, understanding what accountants actually do can help you make the right move. 

Let’s walk through the key responsibilities, education requirements, skills, salary expectations, and even interview tips, so you’ll know exactly what to expect from the role of an accountant.

Jump to:

What is an accountant?

What is the job description of an accountant?

Types of accountants

Staff accountants

Financial accountants

Management accountants

Cost accountants

Auditors

Forensic accountants

Public accountants

Government accountants

Key skills and qualities to have as an accountant

Accountant requirements and education

The day-to-day of an accountant

Software and tools to know as an accountant

Accountants vs. bookkeepers and accountants vs. CPAs

Salary expectations in 2026

Interview tips for an accountant

Final thoughts on the job description of an accountant

What is an accountant?

An accountant is a professional who helps keep a business’s finances organized, accurate, and compliant. Accountants also interpret and explain what your numbers mean. They can show you where your business is making money, where it’s losing money, and what changes could help you grow.

What is the job description of an accountant?

Most accountant job descriptions follow a similar structure. They’re designed to give candidates (or business owners hiring for the role) an idea of what the job looks like and what’s required to do it well. Here are the main parts you’ll usually see:

Job title and summary

A job title is the first thing candidates notice, and it sets the tone for the entire job description. Clear, accurate titles like *Staff Accountant*, *Senior Accountan*t, or *Accounting Manager* help job seekers quickly understand the role’s level and focus.

Right after the title comes the job summary. This is typically a short, one- to two-sentence introduction that explains the role’s purpose and why it matters to the company. A good summary answers questions like:

• What does this role do day to day?
• Who will they support?
• Why is the position important to the business?

Example:

Staff Accountant

“We’re looking for a Staff Accountant to maintain accurate financial records, prepare monthly reports, and support our annual tax filings. This role is essential to keeping our books up to date and helping the business make smart financial decisions.”

Roles and responsibilities

This section is the core of any accountant's job description. It outlines what the role looks like day to day and helps candidates picture themselves in the job. While duties can shift depending on company size and industry, most accountant roles share a core set of responsibilities.

Example:

• Prepare financial reports such as balance sheets, income statements, and cash flow statements.
• Track and maintain accurate general ledger entries and journal postings.
• Manage accounts payable and receivable, including invoices and collections.
• Reconcile bank accounts and investigate discrepancies.
• Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local tax laws.
• Assist with audits by gathering documentation and reviewing records.
• Monitor budgets and help forecast future financial performance.
• Analyze financial data to highlight risks, savings opportunities, or growth trends.
• Use QuickBooks accounting software to manage and report financial data.

Skills and qualifications

Here, employers outline the must-haves for a candidate. This section helps set expectations and weed out applicants who aren’t a good fit. For accountant roles, it usually covers education, certifications, technical expertise, and the soft skills that make someone effective in the role.

Example:

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field required.
• CPA or CMA certification preferred (or willingness to pursue).
• 3–5 years of accounting or finance experience.
• Knowledge of GAAP and standard accounting practices.
• Proficiency with accounting software such as QuickBooks.
• Strong Excel skills, including pivot tables and financial analysis.
• Excellent attention to detail with a high level of accuracy.
• Strong communication and organizational skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines.
• Proven integrity and discretion when handling confidential information.
• Ability to be on-site.

Compensation and benefits

This part of a job description tells candidates what they can expect in return for their work. Some employers share exact salary ranges, while others keep it general, but including at least a ballpark figure helps set expectations. Beyond pay, it’s also a chance to showcase what makes the role appealing: health insurance, retirement plans, and paid time off, among others.

Example:

• Competitive salary range at $65,000–$80,000 annually
• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• 401(k) with company match
• Up to two weeks paid time off
• Hybrid or remote work flexibility
• Professional development support, including CPA exam fee reimbursement
• Opportunities for career growth within the finance department

Types of accountants

The accounting profession covers a broad spectrum, from tax and auditing to fraud investigation and financial strategy. Let’s look at some of the different types of accounting you can pursue as a career and examples of what their job descriptions may look like.

Staff accountant

A staff account is usually an entry to mid-level role on an accounting team. They handle the nuts and bolts of day-to-day accounting, like journal entries, reconciling accounts, tracking expenses, and putting together basic reports. Their work mainly supports the internal team and keeps the company’s books accurate. It’s typically the first stop for new graduates and a stepping stone to more senior roles.

Example job description

Job Summary

We are seeking a detail-oriented and motivated Staff Accountant to join our growing finance team. The Staff Accountant will handle daily accounting tasks, ensure accuracy in financial reporting, and support the month-end close process.

Key Responsibilities

• Prepare, review, and post journal entries to ensure timely and accurate financial reporting.
• Perform monthly reconciliations of bank accounts, prepaid expenses, fixed assets, and other balance sheet accounts.
• Assist in preparing income statements, balance sheets, and cash flow reports.
• Support the closing process by preparing schedules, analyzing variances, and reconciling accounts.
• Help process vendor invoices, employee reimbursements, and customer payments to maintain accurate AP/AR records.
• Compile audit schedules, provide supporting documentation, and respond to auditor requests.
• Ensure adherence to GAAP, internal controls, and company accounting policies.
• Assist management with special projects, reporting, and financial analysis as needed.

Qualifications and Skills

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field required.
• 1–3 years of accounting experience; internships or corporate accounting exposure preferred.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel.
• Experience with QuickBooks or similar ERP/accounting software strongly preferred.
• Solid understanding of GAAP and general accounting practices.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• High attention to detail.
• Ability to handle multiple priorities in a deadline-driven environment.
• Progress toward CPA certification is a plus.

Compensation and Benefits

• Salary range: $62,000–$70,000 annually, based on experience.
• 401(k) retirement plan with up to 4% company match.
• Health, dental, and vision insurance.
• 15 PTO days per year, plus 10 company holidays.
• On-site company gym.

Financial accountants

Financial accountants handle the day-to-day money tracking for a business. They prepare balance sheets, income statements, and cash flow reports that show how the company is doing. Their work is mainly for outside stakeholders—e.g., investors, lenders, or regulators—who want an accurate picture of financial health.

Job description example

Job Summary

We are looking for a highly organized and detail-oriented Financial Accountant to join our finance team. The Financial Accountant will be responsible for preparing accurate financial statements, ensuring compliance with accounting standards, and delivering reports used by management, investors, and regulatory bodies.

Key Responsibilities

• Prepare and analyze financial statements, including income statements, balance sheets, and cash flow reports.
• Ensure compliance with GAAP, IFRS, and company accounting policies.
• Manage monthly, quarterly, and annual financial reporting processes.
• Perform reconciliations for key balance sheet accounts and investigate discrepancies.
• Support external audits by preparing schedules, providing documentation, and coordinating with auditors.
• Assist with regulatory filings and ensure reporting accuracy for investors and lenders.
• Monitor financial performance, highlight variances, and provide insights to management.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to improve reporting processes and internal controls.
• Stay current on accounting standards and financial reporting regulations.

Qualifications and Skills

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field required.
• 2–4 years of accounting or financial reporting experience.
• Strong knowledge of GAAP and familiarity with IFRS.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel (pivot tables, financial modeling, variance analysis).
• Experience with ERP/accounting systems such as QuickBooks.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and organizational skills.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• CPA or progress toward CPA certification strongly preferred.

Compensation and Benefits

• Salary range: $70,000–$85,000 annually, depending on experience.
• 401(k) retirement plan with 3% company match.
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance.
• Paid time off: 15 vacation days, 5 sick days, and 10 company holidays per year.
• Professional development support, including CPA continuing education and certification reimbursement.
• Annual performance bonus based on company and individual results.
• Hybrid work schedule with flexible remote options.

Management accountants

Management accountants focus on helping company leaders make smart decisions. They create budgets, forecast future trends, and analyze performance so managers know where the business stands and how to plan ahead.

Job description example

Job Summary

Company XYZ is looking for a resourceful and analytical Managerial Accountant to join our finance department. The successful candidate will partner with leadership teams to provide insights for strategic decision-making, develop financial models and forecasts, and monitor the company’s performance against budgeted goals.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop, monitor, and analyze budgets and forecasts for various departments.
• Collaborate with managers and executives to interpret financial data and guide decision-making.
• Prepare and present internal financial reports, including cost and variance analysis.
• Perform cost analysis, identify efficiency opportunities, and recommend improvements.
• Create and evaluate KPIs to measure departmental and company performance.
• Support strategic planning initiatives with timely financial insights and modeling.
• Assess risks, highlight trends or deviations, and propose corrective actions.
• Review internal controls and suggest enhancements for financial processes.

Qualifications and Skills

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field required.
• CMA certification or progress toward CMA preferred; CPA considered a plus.
• 3+ years of experience in accounting, finance, or management accounting roles.
• High proficiency in financial modeling, budgeting, and Excel (pivot tables, scenario analysis).
• Experience with ERP or accounting systems (SAP, Oracle, NetSuite, or similar).
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills.
• Demonstrated ability to influence others and present to senior leaders.
• Strong attention to detail, organization, and business acumen.

Compensation and Benefits

• Salary range: $90,000–$120,000 annually, commensurate with experience and credentials.
• 401(k) retirement plan with company match.
• Health, dental, and vision insurance.
• Paid time off.
• Paid life insurance.
• In-office snacks and drinks.

Cost accountants

These types of accountants dig into the details of what it really costs to run a business, like labor, materials, and overhead. They identify where money is being spent, track efficiency, and suggest ways to cut waste or improve profitability.

Job description example

Job Summary

XYZ Manufacturing is seeking a Cost Accountant to join our team. The Cost Accountant will be responsible for analyzing production costs, preparing variance reports, and ensuring accurate financial data for inventory and operations. This role will work closely with plant managers and the finance team to support decision-making and improve profitability.

Key responsibilities

• Analyze monthly cost of goods sold (COGS), production costs, and inventory balances.
• Review standard costing and ensure updates are accurate in the ERP system.
• Prepare variance analyses for labor, materials, and overhead costs.
• Partner with operations leadership to explain financial drivers and improve efficiency.
• Participate in physical inventory counts and reconcile results.
• Assist with budgeting and forecasting processes for assigned business units.
• Ensure compliance with GAAP, SOX requirements, and internal controls.
• Support both internal and external audit requests as needed.
• Recommend process improvements to streamline costing and reporting functions.

Qualifications and Skills

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field.
• 3–5 years of cost accounting or manufacturing finance experience.
• Strong understanding of cost accounting principles and inventory management.
• Proficiency in Excel and ERP systems (SAP, Oracle, or NetSuite preferred).
• *Excellent communication and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and meet tight deadlines.
• *CPA or CMA certification (or progress toward certification) preferred.

Compensation and Benefits

• Competitive salary plus annual performance bonus.
• 401(k) plan with 5% company match.
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• Company-paid life insurance and disability coverage.
• Paid time off (vacation, sick, and holidays).
• Tuition reimbursement and support for CPA/CMA certification.
• Employee wellness programs and professional development opportunities.

Auditors

Auditors act as financial checkers. They review records to make sure everything is accurate and follows regulations. Internal auditors review a company’s own systems, while external auditors (usually CPAs) come in from the outside to give an independent opinion.

Job description example

Job Summary

The Internal Auditor is responsible for evaluating financial and operational processes to ensure compliance, accuracy, and efficiency. This role partners with departments across the organization to perform audits, assess risks, and recommend improvements to strengthen internal controls.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct audits of financial statements, accounting systems, and internal processes to ensure compliance with GAAP and regulatory standards.
• Evaluate risk management practices and identify areas where internal controls can be strengthened.
• Support SOX/ICFR compliance by documenting processes, testing controls, and reporting results.
• Develop audit programs, perform testing, and prepare detailed audit reports.
• Present findings and recommendations to management and collaborate on remediation plans.
• Assist with external audits by gathering documentation and responding to auditor requests.
• Research audit and accounting issues to provide clear, practical recommendations.
• Partner with business units to support process improvements and ensure best practices are followed.
• Perform special projects, investigations, or data analysis as assigned.

Qualifications and Skills

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field required.
• 2–4 years of internal or external audit experience preferred.
• Experience with risk assessment frameworks (COSO, SOX) desirable.
• Strong understanding of accounting principles and audit methodologies.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and familiarity with audit or ERP software.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Strong communication and report-writing abilities.
• High attention to detail and ability to manage multiple audits/projects at once.
• Integrity, discretion, and commitment to confidentiality.
• CPA, CIA, or progress toward certification a plus.

Compensation and Benefits

• Competitive salary range: $68,000–$88,000 annually, depending on experience.
• Health, dental, and vision insurance with employer contributions.
• 401(k) with 4% company match.
• Paid time off, sick days, and company holidays.
• Tuition reimbursement and continuing education support (CPA/CIA programs).
• Paid parental leave.
• Flexible dress code and hybrid work model.
• Career growth opportunities and mentorship from senior finance leaders.
• Employee wellness programs and professional development opportunities.

Forensic accountants

When there’s suspected fraud, embezzlement, or financial disputes, forensic accountants come in to investigate. They usually work with lawyers or law enforcement and may even provide evidence in court.

Job description example

Job Summary

Our Enforcement & Compliance (E&C) team is seeking a Forensic Accountant to support complex investigations into financial fraud, trade violations, and compliance issues. This role is critical in analyzing financial data, identifying irregularities, and preparing reports that contribute to legal proceedings and regulatory enforcement.

Key Responsibilities

• Review and analyze financial records, cost submissions, and accounting filings to detect fraud, misrepresentation, or non-compliance.
• Prepare well-documented financial analyses and cost adjustments for use in investigations and legal cases.
• Draft memoranda, financial exhibits, and issue papers to support enforcement actions and court filings.
• Develop detailed schedules, reports, and summaries to ensure transparency in case analysis.
• Identify and resolve complex accounting issues impacting fraud or compliance cases.
• Collaborate with attorneys, auditors, and enforcement teams on high-profile investigations.
• Maintain comprehensive documentation and audit trails to support findings.
• Provide expert testimony or litigation support when required.

Qualifications and Skills

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, Economics, or related field (required).
• Minimum 8 years’ experience in accounting, cost analysis, or forensic investigation.
• Demonstrated expertise in accounting principles, fraud detection, and financial analysis.
• Experience preparing financial memoranda, policy reports, or litigation documents.
• Familiarity with trade law, compliance, or regulatory frameworks preferred.
• CPA, CMA, or CFE (Certified Fraud Examiner) certification preferred.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills.
• Ability to work independently on complex investigations under tight deadlines.

Compensation and Benefits

• Medical/dental/vision coverage.
• Matching 401(k) plan.
• Continuing education assistance.
• Paid time off.

Public accountants

Public accountants work with a variety of clients, offering services like tax prep, auditing, and consulting. Many are CPAs who work for firms and assist everyone from small business owners to large corporations.

Job description example

Job Summary

1234 Construction company is seeking a detail-oriented and experienced Certified Public Accountant (CPA) to manage financial reporting, compliance, and client accounting needs. This role is responsible for maintaining accurate financial records, preparing statements, overseeing AP/AR, and supporting audits.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage and maintain general ledger accounts, journal entries, and monthly reconciliations.
• Prepare and review financial statements, including balance sheets, income statements, and cash flow reports.
• Oversee accounts payable and accounts receivable processes, including vendor payments and client billing.
• Reconcile multiple bank accounts and credit card activity across business units.
• Conduct and support internal and external audits by preparing schedules and documentation.
• Process invoices, subcontractor bills, and progress billings in compliance with contract requirements.
• Maintain fixed asset records, depreciation schedules, and disposals using accounting software.
• Ensure compliance with GAAP, industry regulations, and company policies.
• Provide financial analysis, cost reviews, and recommendations to management.
• Organize and maintain both electronic and physical financial records for audit readiness.
• Assist management with budgeting, forecasting, and project planning.

Qualifications and Skills

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field required.
• CPA license required.
• 5+ years of progressive accounting experience (public or corporate environment).
• Proficiency in QuickBooks Online and Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word).
• Strong knowledge of GAAP and compliance reporting.
• Experience with construction or project-based accounting preferred.
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines.
• Familiarity with lien laws, retainage, and payroll compliance (a plus).

Compensation and Benefits

• Salary range: $100,000–$125,000 annually, depending on experience.
• 401(k) retirement plan with 3% company match.
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance.
• Life insurance and disability coverage.
• Paid time off, sick leave, and holidays.
• On-site gym and wellness perks (location dependent).
• Performance-based bonuses.

Government accountants

Governmental accountants focus on public funds. They handle budgets, track expenses, and make sure taxpayer money is managed responsibly and transparently. Their work follows strict government standards and helps keep agencies accountable.

Job description example

Job Summary

Parker County is seeking a detail-oriented and motivated Government Accountant to join our Finance Department. Reporting to the Administrative and Fiscal Services Director, this position manages the county’s financial and budgetary activities while ensuring compliance with county, state, federal, and grant regulations.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage and reconcile complex governmental chart of accounts across multiple funds.
• Verify, allocate, post, and reconcile financial transactions, including revenues, expenditures, payroll, accruals, and cost allocations.
• Monitor and analyze grant-related accounting activities to ensure compliance with GASB revenue recognition standards.
• Prepare and review monthly financial statements, journal entries, reconciliations, and cost analyses.
• Support annual budget development, ongoing monitoring, and forecasting processes.
• Assist with fiscal year-end closing, external audits, and preparation of the Comprehensive Annual Financial Report (CAFR).
• Collaborate with county departments to ensure accurate financial reporting and compliance with regulations.
• Maintain proper documentation and internal controls to safeguard public funds.

Qualifications and Skills

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field.
• Strong knowledge of governmental and grant accounting principles.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and financial software systems.
• Excellent organizational, analytical, and communication skills.
• Ability to work independently, prioritize multiple tasks, and manage detailed work accurately.

Compensation and Benefits

• Salary range: $49,046–$72,592 annually, based on experience and qualifications.
• Health, dental, and vision insurance.
• Retirement plan with county contributions.
• Paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays.
• Professional development and continuing education opportunities.
• Supportive work environment focused on transparency, accountability, and fiscal responsibility.

Key skills and qualities to have as an accountant

Today, accountants need a mix of technical know-how, people skills, and comfort with technology to succeed. Here are some of the most important qualities top accountants bring to the table:

Strong with numbers, analysis, and problem-solving

You need a strong grasp of accounting principles, financial reporting standards (like GAAP or IFRS), auditing, budgeting, and forecasting. But the real value comes from knowing how to read between the lines of the numbers. That means spotting trends, catching errors, and figuring out why something doesn’t add up. For example, maybe expenses are higher this quarter than expected. A good accountant investigates why it happened, whether it’s a one-time issue or a sign of something bigger, and how it might affect future budgets.

Comfort with technology

Accounting has gone digital, and tools like QuickBooks Online and other cloud platforms are part of the modern toolkit. The more comfortable you are with software and automation, the easier it is to keep records accurate and save time on routine tasks. It also helps to be flexible with new tech. Businesses are always adding apps for payroll, expenses, or CRM, and accountants who can jump in and learn quickly are a huge asset.

Attention to detail

Details matter in accounting. A single missed decimal point or overlooked entry can create errors that ripple through financial statements and tax filings, costing a company money, time, and credibility. But attention to detail doesn’t mean getting bogged down or obsessing over every minor point. Great accountants strike a good balance: they know when to zoom in to catch errors and when to zoom out to keep the bigger picture in focus.

Excellent communication

Business owners, managers, and clients may not have a finance background, so accountants need to explain results in a simple, clear way. For example, instead of handing over a detailed balance sheet full of line items, an accountant might point out that expenses are trending higher than expected and explain what that means for cash flow. Or, they might take a profit and loss report and highlight the key takeaway: revenue is up, but margins are shrinking, and here’s why.

Ethical and trustworthy

Because accountants work with sensitive financial data, they’re expected to be honest, objective, and reliable at all times. The AICPA Code of Professional Conduct makes integrity and transparency non-negotiable, and the International Federation of Accountants (IFAC) stresses the same values worldwide. This means keeping information confidential, following the rules (like GAAP or tax laws), avoiding conflicts of interest, and giving clear, truthful guidance (even when it’s hard).

Accountant requirements and education

If you’re wondering how to become an accountant, the path usually involves a mix of schooling, certifications, and hands-on experience. Let’s take a look at what your journey may look like.

Education

Most accountants begin with a bachelor’s degree in accounting, finance, or another related field. An associate degree or certificate might land you an entry-level role, but if you want long-term growth, a four-year degree is the standard. In fact, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, a bachelor’s degree was required for 91.4% of accounting and auditing jobs in 2024.

Certifications

You may choose to pursue professional certifications. The most recognized is the Certified Public Accountant (CPA) license, which shows you’ve met the highest standards in the field.

Here’s what it usually takes to become a CPA:

• Earn your degree: You’ll need a bachelor’s in accounting or a related field. Some states also require extra coursework (about 150 total credit hours), which usually means taking additional classes beyond a standard four-year degree.
• Get real-world experience: Most states require 1–2 years of supervised accounting work (around 2,000–4,000 hours) before you can apply for your license.
• Pass the CPA Exam: This four-part test covers auditing, financial reporting, tax and regulation, plus a discipline section like business analysis or information systems.
• Meet ethics requirements: Many states ask you to complete an ethics exam and sometimes a background check to ensure you meet professional standards.
• Keep your skills current: After you become a CPA, you’ll need to complete continuing education regularly to maintain your license.

A CPA isn’t your only option, though. There are other certifications you can pursue, including:

• CMA (Certified Management Accountant): Focuses on strategy, planning, and management.
• CIA (Certified Internal Auditor): For those who want to work in auditing and risk management.
• CFE (Certified Fraud Examiner): Specializes in fraud detection and prevention.

Experience

Education and exams are important, but real-world experience is what turns you into a skilled accountant. Many students start with internships or junior roles where they help reconcile accounts, prepare financial statements, and support audits. And as mentioned above, this on-the-job learning is also required if you want to earn your CPA.

It’s not just a nice-to-have, either. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics states that in 2024, 82.9% of accountants and auditors were required to have prior work experience, and 72% needed on-the-job training.

Entry-level vs. senior accountant

So, what’s the difference between just starting out in accounting and moving into a more seasoned role? The table below breaks down how responsibilities, experience, and qualifications typically evolve from entry-level accountants to senior accountants.

The day-to-day of an accountant

Ever wonder what the job description of an accountant is? What they do can change depending on their specialty, the size of the company they work for, and even the time of year (tax season looks a lot different than mid-summer). But at the core, most accountants handle a similar set of responsibilities.

Recording and maintaining financial records

A big part of an accountant’s day is making sure financial records are accurate. That means logging transactions, reconciling bank statements, and double-checking that everything lines up. It’s detailed work, but it’s the foundation for everything else.

Preparing reports

Accountants turn those records into reports like balance sheets, income statements, and cash flow statements. They give business owners a clear picture of the company's performance at any given moment.

Analyzing and advising

Numbers tell a story, and accountants are the ones who translate it. They look for trends, spot potential problems, and offer recommendations to help businesses save money, plan for growth, or avoid risks.

Handling deadlines and busy seasons

Some times of year are steady. Others are crunch time. Month-end closes, annual tax filings, or preparing for an audit can mean long hours and extra pressure. Accountants are used to shifting gears depending on the season.

Working with people

It’s not all spreadsheets and calculators. Accountants spend a lot of time talking with clients, managers, or other departments—explaining financial results, answering questions, and helping others make sense of the numbers.

Improving systems

Beyond the day-to-day, accountants often look for ways to make processes smoother. That could mean setting up better reporting tools, upgrading accounting software, or tightening controls to make sure everything runs efficiently.

Software and tools to know as an accountant

To do their jobs well, accountants rely on a variety of digital tools. From cloud-based platforms to workflow automation software, here are some of the most important ones to know:

Accountants vs. bookkeepers and accountants vs. CPAs

It’s easy to get confused about who does what when it comes to managing money. Let’s look at the differences between accountants and bookkeepers, as well as accountants and CPAs.

Accountants vs. bookkeepers

Bookkeepers and accountants usually work closely together, but their roles aren’t the same.

• Bookkeepers handle the day-to-day financial recordkeeping. They record transactions, manage invoices, run payroll, and keep ledgers up to date. Their job is to make sure the numbers are organized and accurate.
• Accountants take that organized data and go a step further. They prepare financial statements, analyze trends, and provide insights to help businesses make smarter decisions. Accountants also ensure that records comply with accounting standards and tax rules.

Accountants vs. CPAs

All CPAs are accountants, but not all accountants are CPAs. Here’s the difference:

• Accountants usually have a degree in accounting and can handle tasks like preparing financial reports, filing taxes, and giving business advice. They’re skilled with numbers, but they don’t always have a professional license.
• CPAs are licensed accountants who’ve passed a rigorous exam and met extra education and work experience requirements. CPAs can do everything accountants do, plus things only licensed professionals are allowed to handle, like conducting audits, representing clients before the IRS, or issuing certified financial statements.

Salary expectations in 2026

According to the most recent data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual salary for accountants and auditors is $81,680, which is well above the national average for all jobs ($49,500). In this salary range, accountants and auditors in:

• The lowest 10% earn less than $52,780, which is where entry-level or less experienced accountants usually start out.
• The highest 10% make more than $141,420, typically in senior or specialized positions.

Also, some industries may pay more than others. Here’s how median salaries look:

• Finance and insurance: $87,980
• Management of companies and enterprises: $86,010
• Government: $81,120
• Accounting, tax prep, bookkeeping, and payroll services: $80,510

You should also keep in mind that location matters, too. BLS data suggest that accountants in populous states like New York ($113,310) and California ($100,560) tend to earn well above the national median. On the other hand, more rural states—such as South Dakota ($77,840)—usually fall closer to the lower end of the pay scale.

The bottom line is that while most accountants earn a steady and above-average income, your pay will depend on your experience, credentials, industry, and location.

Interview tips for an accountant

Got an interview lined up? Here are a few tips to help you stand out and shine:

Brush up on your tools

Most accounting jobs use software like QuickBooks, Excel, SAP, or Oracle. Be ready to share real examples of how you’ve used these tools. For instance, maybe you automated a report in Excel or cleaned up messy transactions in QuickBooks. Employers love hearing how you’ve solved problems with tech.

Expect both technical and “people” questions

You’ll probably get questions about accounting principles (like GAAP or IFRS) and financial statements. But you’ll also get behavioral questions, such as, “Tell me about a time you caught an error in the books.” Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to keep your answers clear and focused.

Have a few stories ready

Think of 2–3 work examples you can draw from—e.g., times when you solved a tricky issue, improved a process, or dealt with a tight deadline. Stories make your answers memorable and show you can put your skills to use.

Learn about the company

Don’t walk in blind. Take time to learn about the company’s industry, challenges, and values. Showing you’ve done your homework sets you apart. You can even ask smart questions like, “What’s the biggest challenge facing your accounting team right now?”

Show off soft skills

Employers want people who can communicate clearly, stay calm under pressure, and act with integrity. Be ready to talk about how you handle deadlines, explain financial info to non-finance coworkers, or uphold ethical standards when faced with tough decisions.

First impressions matter

Dress professionally, show confidence, and remember that body language counts. A firm handshake, eye contact, and sitting up straight can make a big difference in how you’re perceived.

Follow up

After the interview, send a short thank-you email. Mention something specific from the conversation and remind them why you’re excited about the role. It’s a small gesture, but it leaves a lasting impression.

Final thoughts on the job description of an accountant

Whether you’re thinking about becoming an accountant or hiring an accountant for your small business, knowing what they do, the skills they bring, and what you can expect to pay gives you a clearer picture of how valuable they are.

Accountants can guide you through the numbers, but tools like QuickBooks help make sure the day-to-day work is smooth and stress-free. With QuickBooks, you’ll get accurate books, simplified invoicing, streamlined tax prep, and financial insights you can trust.