Accountant Job Description

What is the job description of an Accountant? What are the duties and responsibilities of an Accountant? What does an Accountant do?

Job description of an Accountant

Accountants help businesses make financial decisions by collecting, tracking, correcting, and communicating the financial position of the company. They record transactions, compile and analyze data, perform audits, assist with budgets and financial forecasting, compute taxes, and report their findings to management and other entities, such as the IRS or investors.

This Accountant job description example includes the list of most important Accountant duties and responsibilities as shown below. It can be modified to fit the specific Accountant profile you're trying to fill as a recruiter or job seeker.

Accountant Duties and Responsibilities

Accountant job description should contain a variety of functions and roles including:

  • Creating periodic reports, such as balance sheets, profit & loss statements, etc.
  • Presenting data to managers, investors, and other entities.
  • Complying with all company, local, state, and federal accounting and financial regulations.
  • Compiling, analyzing, and reporting financial data.
  • Maintaining accurate financial records.
  • Performing audits and resolving discrepancies.
  • Computing taxes.
  • Assisting management in the decision-making process by preparing budgets and financial forecasts.
  • Keeping informed about current legislation relating to finance and accounting.

Accountant Requirements / Skills / Qualifications

Accountant job description should include these common skills and qualifications:

  • Bachelor’s degree in Accounting or related field.
  • More education or experience may be preferred.
  • Special licenses or certification may be required.
  • Ethical behavior.
  • Strong analytical, communication, and computer skills.
  • Understanding of mathematics and accounting and financial processes.
  • Attention to detail.

As a hiring manager, recruiting an ideal Accountant starts with crafting a good job description. Use this Accountant job description template to save yourself time and help you attract the most qualified candidates. Feel free to revise it to meet your specific needs.

Job seekers interviewing for the role of an Accountant may also reference it in preparation for the interview.