Description

Staff accountants are accountable for various financial tasks and procedures, and computer abilities are crucial for this job to utilize sophisticated budgeting and auditing software applications, and also write quickly and create various reports for the company. They also have the responsibility of keeping a budget in balance and making sure that all financial statements are prepared and analyzed with care.

Staff accountants need to ensure that all federal and state regulations and laws regarding accounting practices are strictly adhered to They are often responsible for assisting the with the management of the controller's department. Being able to sit for long periods of time is essential, since they are often working on computers during their shifts. It is essential to maintain an attitude of positivity, since the ability to work in a team environment and collaborate in a group environment can keep the business functioning efficiently from within. It is essential to be reliable particularly when absence from work can cause disruption to the work flow.

It is essential to be capable of lifting up 25 pounds, since the requirement to move and lift filing cabinets and other medium and small packaging may arise. An undergraduate degree in Accounting or another related area is usually a mandatory prerequisite for this job, and some employers prefer candidates with prior experience in the field.

Roles & Responsibilities

As a staff accountant with 0-3 years of experience in the United States, your main responsibilities include:

  • Conducting day-to-day bookkeeping tasks, such as recording financial transactions, maintaining general ledgers, and reconciling accounts.
  • Assisting in the preparation and analysis of financial statements, including profit and loss statements and balance sheets.
  • Assisting in the preparation of tax returns, ensuring compliance with state and federal regulations.
  • Supporting the audit process by providing necessary documentation, performing data analysis, and ensuring accuracy and completeness of financial records.

Qualifications & Work Experience

For a Staff Accountant job role, the following qualifications are required:

  • Solid understanding of accounting principles and financial reporting to accurately prepare and analyze financial statements, balance sheets, and income statements.
  • Proficiency in using accounting software and tools to manage financial data, perform reconciliations, and generate reports.
  • Attention to detail and strong problem-solving skills to identify and resolve discrepancies, ensuring accuracy in financial records and transactions.
  • Strong knowledge of tax regulations and compliance to prepare and file tax returns and assist in tax planning activities.

Essential Skills For Staff Accountant

1

Accounting Fundamentals

2

Financial Management

3

Budgeting

4

Management Accounting

Skills That Affect Staff Accountant Salaries

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

Oracle Database

17%

Budgeting

4%

Mentoring

12%

Portfolio Management

4%

Project Management

10%

Accounting

5%

SQL

9%

Customer Billing

10%

Outlook

5%

Career Prospects

The Staff Accountant job role is an essential position in the United States for professionals with 0-3 years of work experience. If you're considering alternative roles, here are following options to explore:

  • Junior Financial Analyst: This role involves assisting senior analysts in analyzing financial data, preparing reports, and supporting decision-making processes.
  • Bookkeeper: A position that focuses on maintaining financial records, reconciling accounts, and processing transactions for an organization.
  • Tax Associate: A role that involves preparing and filing tax returns, researching tax laws, and providing tax-related advice to clients.
  • Accounts Receivable Clerk: This position is responsible for monitoring and recording incoming payments, processing invoices, and resolving payment discrepancies.

How to Learn

The staff accounting role in the United States is expected to experience steady growth in the market. A 10-year analysis indicates a positive outlook for this job, with increasing demand and opportunities. According to recent data from Google, the employment opportunities in this field are projected to be plentiful in the future. The precise number of opportunities is not specified, but consistent growth in the job market suggests a favorable landscape for aspiring staff accountants in the United States.