What Does an Accountant Do? Complete Career Guide
If you're wondering what does an accountant do, you're exploring one of the most stable, respected, and essential professions in the business world. Accountants manage financial records, ensure regulatory compliance, analyze financial performance, and help organizations make informed economic decisions.
With thousands of accountant jobs in the US available across industries — from corporate finance to public accounting firms — this profession offers strong earning potential, job security, and clear career progression. Whether you're exploring how to become an accountant, searching for entry-level accountant jobs, or comparing accountant salary by state, this complete guide explains everything you need to know.
Accounting is more than bookkeeping — it’s financial strategy, compliance, analysis, and business advisory.
What Is an Accountant?
An accountant is a financial professional responsible for recording, analyzing, and reporting financial transactions. They ensure businesses operate within legal financial frameworks while optimizing profitability and efficiency.
Accountants typically work in:
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Public accounting firms
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Corporate finance departments
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Government agencies
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Nonprofit organizations
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Financial institutions
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Consulting firms
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Startups
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Small businesses
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Remote accounting teams
There are several types of accountants:
1. Public Accountant
Provides auditing, tax, and consulting services to clients.
2. Corporate (Private) Accountant
Manages internal financial operations for one company.
3. Tax Accountant
Specializes in tax preparation and compliance.
4. Forensic Accountant
Investigates financial discrepancies and fraud.
5. Government Accountant
Works with public funds and regulatory compliance.
6. Management Accountant
Focuses on budgeting, forecasting, and strategic planning.
Accountants are critical to financial transparency and business success.
Roles and Responsibilities of an Accountant
Understanding daily responsibilities clarifies what accountants actually do.
1. Recording Financial Transactions
Maintaining accurate ledgers and financial documentation.
2. Preparing Financial Statements
Creating balance sheets, income statements, and cash flow reports.
3. Managing Budgets
Monitoring expenses and ensuring budget compliance.
4. Tax Preparation
Preparing and filing tax returns for individuals or businesses.
5. Conducting Audits
Reviewing financial records for accuracy and compliance.
6. Financial Analysis
Identifying trends and advising management.
7. Ensuring Regulatory Compliance
Following GAAP standards and IRS regulations.
8. Forecasting Financial Performance
Predicting revenue and expenses.
9. Payroll Management
Processing employee compensation and benefits.
10. Advising Business Leaders
Supporting strategic financial decisions.
11. Managing Accounts Payable/Receivable
Tracking outgoing and incoming payments.
12. Risk Assessment
Evaluating financial risks and internal controls.
Accountants combine precision, analytical thinking, and regulatory knowledge.
How To Become an Accountant
If you're researching how to become an accountant, follow this structured pathway.
Step 1: Earn a Bachelor’s Degree
Most accountant jobs in the US require:
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Bachelor’s degree in Accounting
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Finance
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Business Administration (with accounting focus)
Typical program length: 4 years.
Step 2: Gain Practical Experience
Entry-level positions include:
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Accounting assistant
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Junior accountant
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Accounts payable clerk
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Accounts receivable specialist
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Audit associate
Internships during college significantly improve job prospects.
Step 3: Consider Professional Certification
Certifications increase earning potential and career mobility.
Popular certifications:
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Certified Public Accountant (CPA)
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Certified Management Accountant (CMA)
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Certified Internal Auditor (CIA)
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Enrolled Agent (EA)
Step 4: Meet CPA Requirements (Optional but Valuable)
To become a CPA:
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Complete 150 credit hours (often requires a master’s degree)
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Pass the Uniform CPA Exam
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Meet state licensing requirements
CPA designation significantly increases accountant salary potential.
Step 5: Apply for Accountant Jobs
Search for:
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Entry-level accountant jobs
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Junior accountant roles
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Tax accountant positions
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Corporate accountant jobs
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Remote accounting jobs
Using a job aggregator allows you to compare accountant salary by state, industry, and experience level.
Education Requirements
Minimum Requirement:
Bachelor’s degree (4 years)
Advanced Roles:
Master’s degree in Accounting or MBA (optional but beneficial)
Many states require 150 credit hours for CPA eligibility.
Certifications for Accountants
Certifications enhance credibility and income potential.
Most Recognized Certifications:
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CPA (Certified Public Accountant)
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CMA (Certified Management Accountant)
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CIA (Certified Internal Auditor)
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EA (Enrolled Agent)
Do Certifications Increase Accountant Salary?
Yes. CPAs typically earn significantly higher salaries than non-certified accountants.
Certifications also open doors to senior and executive-level positions.
Essential Skills for Accountants
To succeed in accountant jobs in the US, you need both technical and soft skills.
Technical Skills
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Financial reporting
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Tax knowledge
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GAAP compliance
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Financial analysis
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Budgeting
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Auditing procedures
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Accounting software proficiency
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Data analysis
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Risk management
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Payroll systems
Soft Skills
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Attention to detail
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Analytical thinking
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Integrity
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Time management
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Communication skills
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Problem-solving
Accuracy and ethical standards are critical in accounting.
Tools & Software Accountants Use
Modern accountants rely on advanced software systems.
1. QuickBooks
2. SAP
3. Oracle Financials
4. Microsoft Excel
5. Xero
6. TurboTax
7. Payroll systems
8. Financial reporting tools
9. ERP systems
10. Cloud accounting platforms
Technology proficiency is essential in modern accounting roles.
Accountant Salary in the US
One of the most searched phrases is accountant salary.
Average Accountant Salary (US)
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$60,000 – $85,000 annually
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$29 – $41 per hour
Entry-Level Accountant Salary
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$50,000 – $65,000 annually
Senior Accountant Salary
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$85,000 – $110,000+ annually
CPA Salary
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$90,000 – $140,000+ annually
Accountant Salary by State (Average Annual)
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California: $75,000 – $105,000
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New York: $70,000 – $100,000
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Texas: $65,000 – $90,000
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Florida: $60,000 – $80,000
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Illinois: $65,000 – $90,000
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Massachusetts: $75,000 – $105,000
Salaries vary based on certification, experience, and industry.
Factors Affecting Accountant Salary
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CPA certification
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Years of experience
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Industry specialization
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Company size
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Location
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Management responsibilities
CPAs and financial managers earn significantly higher compensation.
Industries Hiring Accountants
Accountants are needed across all industries.
1. Public Accounting Firms
2. Corporate Finance Departments
3. Government Agencies
4. Nonprofit Organizations
5. Financial Institutions
6. Healthcare
7. Technology Companies
8. Manufacturing
9. Retail
10. Consulting Firms
Financial compliance ensures consistent demand.
Career Growth Opportunities
Accounting offers strong upward mobility.
Career path:
Junior Accountant → Staff Accountant → Senior Accountant → Accounting Manager → Controller → CFO
Other pathways include:
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Tax specialist
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Financial analyst
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Auditor
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Forensic accountant
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Consultant
Certifications accelerate promotion potential.
Common Questions About Accountants
How long does it take to become an accountant?
Typically 4 years for a bachelor’s degree; longer if pursuing CPA.
Do accountants need certification?
Not required for all roles, but CPA greatly enhances career prospects.
Are accountant jobs in demand?
Yes. Financial compliance ensures steady demand.
Can accountants work remotely?
Yes. Many accounting jobs in the US offer hybrid or remote options.
Is accounting a good career?
Yes. It offers job stability, competitive salaries, and growth opportunities.
What degree is best for accounting?
Bachelor’s degree in Accounting is most common.
Start Your Accounting Career Today
If you enjoy working with numbers, financial systems, and strategic business decisions, accounting offers a stable and rewarding career path.
With thousands of accountant jobs in the US, including entry-level accountant jobs and CPA-level positions, opportunities are widely available.
Using a job aggregator allows you to:
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Compare accountant salary by state
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Find accounting firms hiring now
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Filter by certification level
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Search remote accounting roles
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Explore corporate finance opportunities
Take the next step — start exploring accountant job openings and build your financial career today.
