Description

Accounting clerks generally work in offices, and travel is not required for the job. They must have exceptional knowledge of all ledger accounts, such as accounts payable/receivable, cash, and many others. These clerks may work only with accounts payable/receivable, while others may coordinate various accounts for their companies, and other duties may include working with both customers and vendors.

Candidates should have excellent customer service skills and close attention to detail in order to succeed in this position. A high school diploma or GED is generally required, and those with at least an associate's degree in accounting and prior work experience may be preferred by some employers. Some companies are willing to train new clerks who have prior education, and some experienced clerks may train new ones in the same manner.

Strong computer skills, including proficiency with Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook) and accounting software, are highly beneficial. Applicants should also have interpersonal skills and excellent oral and written communication skills in order to work well on teams. The ability to meet tight deadlines is also important, as the data these clerks prepare is part of their company’s financial statements. Finally, accounting clerks must adhere to all internal audit controls, work closely with internal auditors, understand all Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP), and stay up-to-date with new accounting principles and regulations.

Roles & Responsibilities

As an Accounting Clerk in Canada with 3-6 years of experience, your main responsibilities include:

  • Prepare and maintain financial records, including accounts payable and accounts receivable, ensuring accuracy and compliance with accounting standards.
  • Assist in the preparation of financial statements, such as balance sheets and income statements, and provide support during financial audits.
  • Process and reconcile financial transactions, such as invoices, purchase orders, and expense reports, ensuring proper documentation and adherence to internal controls.
  • Collaborate with internal teams and external stakeholders to resolve accounting discrepancies, answer inquiries, and provide financial analysis and reporting as needed.

Qualifications & Work Experience

For an Accounting Clerk, the following qualifications are required:

  • Proficiency in accounting software and knowledge of financial principles to accurately maintain and update financial records, including accounts receivable and accounts payable.
  • Attention to detail and high level of accuracy to ensure error-free processing of invoices, purchase orders, and other financial documents.
  • Strong organizational skills to handle multiple tasks, prioritize work, and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
  • Effective communication abilities to interact with clients, vendors, and internal stakeholders, resolving any accounting-related queries or issues promptly.

Essential Skills For Accounting Clerk

1

Accounting Fundamentals

2

Financial Management

3

Cost Accounting

4

Accounting

Skills That Affect Accounting Clerk Salaries

Different skills can affect your salary. Below are the most popular skills and their effect on salary.

Business Accounting

1%

Tax Accounting

12%

Financial Management

22%

Account Reconciliation

4%

Bookkeeping

17%

Career Prospects

For an Accounting Clerk with 3-6 years of work experience in Canada, there are various alternative roles to consider. Here are four options to explore:

  • Payroll Administrator: This role involves managing and processing employee payroll, ensuring accurate and timely payments, and complying with payroll regulations and tax requirements.
  • Accounts Receivable Specialist: A position focused on managing customer accounts, tracking and collecting payments, resolving payment discrepancies, and maintaining accurate records of transactions.
  • Bookkeeper: A role that entails recording financial transactions, maintaining general ledgers, preparing financial statements, and reconciling accounts to ensure accuracy and compliance.
  • Cost Accountant: This position involves analyzing and tracking costs associated with manufacturing processes, preparing cost reports, conducting variance analysis, and providing insights to optimize costs and improve profitability.

How to Learn

The job role of Accounting Clerk is projected to experience steady growth in the Canadian market. According to a 10-year analysis, there is a positive outlook for this position, with an expected increase in employment opportunities. The demand for Accounting Clerks is expected to be driven by factors such as an increasing number of businesses and a growing emphasis on financial transparency and accountability. While the exact number of future employment opportunities is not specified, the projected growth in this role indicates a favorable job market for aspiring Accounting Clerks in Canada.