Accounting Clerk: Job Description and Requirements for Starting a Career As an Accounting Clerk

Accounting Clerks have high school diplomas and many have associate's degrees in Accounting or Business. Also referred to as bookkeeping clerks, Accounting Clerks maintain financial information for all types of businesses.

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Accounting Clerk Career Definition

Accounting Clerks are responsible for reviewing and maintaining accounting records. They enter balances and calculate interest on loans, bank accounts and credit accounts, review invoices and bills and reconcile account statements. Accounting clerks work for all different sizes of businesses, and their tasks tend to be more specialized with larger companies that employ large Accounting Departments. Often their duties include providing assistance to a CPA (Certified Public Accountant).

How to Become an Accounting Clerk

Required Education for A Career in Accounting Clerking

Many Accounting Clerks have earned associate's degrees in Business or Accounting, though some enter the field with only a high school diploma. Associate's degree programs focus on teaching knowledge of basic accounting procedures and skills in computerized accounting techniques. A bachelor's degree is not necessary for a career as an Accounting Clerk, though some Clerks have B.A. degrees and move more quickly to senior Accounting positions.

Skills Required for a Career as an Accounting Clerk

Because they provide services to others, the College Board, www.collegeboard.com, recommends that aspiring Accounting Clerks be good with people as well as numbers. Accounting Clerks should also have high ethical standards and professionalism. Good number sense is also a plus, as is familiarity and comfortability with computer technology.

Career and Economic Outlook for Accounting Clerking

Accounting Clerk jobs will grow at an average rate compared to other professions, according to the U.S. Department of Labor, www.bls.gov. Many of the jobs available will be due to existing Accounting Clerks advancing to other positions or retiring.

In 2008, Accounting Clerks earned $33,800 per year, on average, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, www.bls.gov. The highest paid Accounting Clerks work in Washington D.C., Connecticut, California, Alaska and Massachusetts where they earn salaries between $38,000 and $44,000.

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Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics