Description

Assistant accountants aid in the day-to-day operations of an accounting department, typically reporting to a senior accountant or production accountant. Specific daily tasks vary based on whether or not an assistant accountant is hired by an individual accountant or an accounting firm.

When hired by an individual accountant, job duties usually include basic office work such as filing documents, answering phones, and corresponding with clients. Assistant accountants will also assist with basic financial work such as bookkeeping. Assistant accountants who work in large corporations typically work in the accounts payable or payroll departments. They keep track of vendor invoices, including payments received or paid, and many times, they document employee time and pay – sick days, vacations, bonuses, or overtime.

Assistant accountant is typically an entry-level position that may be performed by students who are currently in the process of obtaining a bachelor’s or master’s degree in the field of accounting. Assistant accountants should have prior bookkeeping experience and/or a certification, such as a bachelor’s degree, in accounting. Organization and attention to details are expected from assistant accountants, as they deal with very sensitive financial information.

Roles & Responsibilities

As an Assistant Accountant with 6-9 years of experience in Singapore, your primary responsibility is to support the financial reporting and analysis of the company. Here are following main responsibilities:

  • Prepare and review financial statements, ensuring accuracy and compliance with accounting standards.
  • Assist in budgeting and forecasting processes, providing insights and recommendations for improving financial performance.
  • Conduct variance analysis to identify trends, risks, and opportunities, and propose actions to mitigate issues or optimize results.
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams to reconcile accounts, resolve discrepancies, and ensure timely and accurate financial reporting.

Qualifications & Work Experience

For an Assistant Accountant job role, the following qualifications are required:

  • Proficiency in accounting software and experience with financial statement preparation to assist with general ledger entries and month-end closings.
  • Strong attention to detail and accuracy to review financial records, identify discrepancies, and reconcile accounts.
  • Knowledge of regulatory compliance and accounting principles to ensure adherence to financial laws and regulations.
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to collaborate with team members and explain financial information to stakeholders in a clear and concise manner.

Essential Skills For Assistant Accountant

1

Accounting Fundamentals

2

Financial Statements

3

Accounting

4

SAP

Career Prospects

The role of Assistant Accountant is crucial in maintaining financial records and supporting the accounting team. With 6-9 years of experience in Singapore's finance industry, professionals can consider alternative roles that offer new challenges and opportunities. Here are following options to explore:

  • Senior Accountant: A position with increased responsibilities, such as financial reporting and ensuring regulatory compliance.
  • Treasury Manager: A role focused on managing cash flow, liquidity, and financial risk for an organization, including forecasting and investment activities.
  • Procurement Manager: A position involving overseeing supplier relationships, contract negotiations, and optimizing purchasing processes.
  • Financial Analyst: An opportunity to monitor financial performance, create forecasts, and provide valuable insights for strategic decision-making.

How to Learn

The role of Assistant Accountant in Singapore is projected to experience steady growth in the market. Based on a 10-year analysis, there is a continuous demand for individuals in this field. According to recent data from Google, the employment opportunities for Assistant Accountants will remain plentiful in the future. The position holds significant importance in supporting the financial functions of organizations, ensuring accurate record-keeping and financial reporting. As the economy expands, the need for skilled professionals in this role is expected to rise. The projected growth of this position indicates a promising career path for aspiring Assistant Accountants in Singapore.