Learn about the important requirements, obligations, responsibilities, and skills that should be in an accounting assistant job description.
Accounting assistants provide clerical and bookkeeping support to the accounting team. They may take on all aspects of bookkeeping or specialize in one area, such as accounts payable, accounts receivable, or payroll. Accounting assistants, sometimes called accounting clerks, must be detail-oriented, familiar with accounting concepts, and proficient in using accounting software.
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Accounting Assistant Job Description Template
Due to company growth, we're seeking a driven accounting assistant interested in and capable of completing a range of bookkeeping tasks. Our new accounting assistant will support the team by processing transactions and recording them in the ledger, creating and reviewing financial reports, helping with audits, and completing other clerical tasks as assigned.
The accounting assistant must have a working knowledge of accounting principles and accounting software, such as Quickbooks. They must also pride themselves on being accurate, honest, and ethical.
Accounting Assistant Responsibilities
- Processing transactions, recording them in the appropriate ledger, and reviewing them for accuracy.
- Creating, reviewing, and sharing financial reports.
- Maintaining accounting-related files.
- Helping with the auditing, budgeting, and payroll processes as assigned.
- Sending invoices, receiving payments, and preparing bank deposits.
- Receiving invoices and paying vendors per company guidelines.
- Reconciling bank statements.
- Communicating with suppliers and customers in the office, over the phone, or via email.
Accounting Assistant Requirements
- Some accounting-related coursework. Associate’s degree or higher preferred.
- 2+ years of similar work experience.
- Working knowledge of accounting concepts and principles.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and Quickbooks.
- Ability to enter data quickly and accurately.
- Strong communication, organizational, and multitasking skills.
- Dedication to completing work professionally, honestly, and ethically.
Accounting Assistant Duties And Responsibilities
Let’s dive deeper into some of the accounting assistant’s responsibilities.
Processing And Recording Transactions
Accounting assistants process and record financial transactions as money flows in and out of the business. Doing so ensures that all accounts get kept up to date. An accounting assistant must diligently record transactions as they occur and make sure they get entered accurately.
Sending Invoices
Accounting assistants send invoices to customers or clients that owe the company money. They may also have to follow up with invoice recipients if payment isn’t received promptly. An accounting assistant needs to be organized to keep track of outstanding invoices and have strong interpersonal skills to work with customers running behind on their payments.
Receiving Invoices
Accounting assistants also receive invoices from suppliers for products or services the organization has purchased. They may remit payment with management approval. An accounting assistant must maintain strong relationships with suppliers and comply with company rules for processing invoices.
Reconciling Bank Statements
Accounting assistants reconcile bank statements. Doing so ensures that the bank's records match the data within the company’s accounting software. An accounting assistant must have a keen eye for detail and know how to research and resolve any discrepancies that may arise.
Creating Financial Reports
Accounting assistants create and review financial reports like balance sheets, cash flow statements, and income statements. That way, management can see how the company is performing at a glance. An accounting assistant must be committed to producing accurate reports and have superior communication skills to discuss the details with others on the team.
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Accounting Assistant Salary And Job Outlook
Here’s the current outlook for the accounting assistant role in the United States:
Median National Salary: $45,928/year
Education Required: Some college
Number of Jobs: 1.7+ million
Job Growth 2022 – 2032: -6% (decline)
Related: The Best Accounting Careers
The Bottom Line
Hopefully, you feel confident that you can write a compelling accounting assistant job description. Once you’re satisfied with it, list your open position on ZipRecruiter! If you’d like to cast a wider net but are on a budget, consider posting the role on one (or more) of the best free job posting sites.
