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Free template · Finance & Accounting

Accountant job description template

An accountant records and reviews financial transactions, prepares financial statements, and makes sure the books are accurate and compliant. They handle month-end close, reconciliations, tax support, and reporting that helps leaders make decisions. Copy this template, replace the bracketed parts, then run it through the free JD Analyzer.

Check it for bias

Accountant

About the role

[Company Name] is hiring an Accountant to keep our financial records accurate, timely, and compliant. You will handle journal entries, reconciliations, and month-end close, and help prepare financial statements and reports. You will support audits and tax filings and suggest improvements to our accounting processes. This role is a good fit for a detail-focused professional who takes pride in clean, reliable numbers.

Responsibilities

  • Prepare and post journal entries, accruals, and adjustments
  • Perform monthly balance sheet and bank reconciliations
  • Support the month-end and year-end close process
  • Prepare financial statements and management reports
  • Maintain the general ledger and chart of accounts
  • Support external audits and prepare documentation
  • Assist with tax filings and coordinate with outside tax advisors
  • Monitor fixed assets, depreciation, and prepaid expenses
  • Identify and implement improvements to accounting processes and controls
  • Analyze variances and explain results to managers

Requirements

  • Working knowledge of GAAP and accrual accounting
  • Experience with month-end close and account reconciliations
  • Proficiency in accounting software such as QuickBooks, NetSuite, or similar
  • Strong Excel or spreadsheet skills
  • High attention to detail and accuracy
  • Ability to handle confidential information with discretion
  • Ability to meet recurring deadlines

Nice to have

  • CPA license or progress toward one
  • Experience supporting audits
  • Experience in our industry
  • Experience improving processes or implementing new systems

Pay

[Pay range] · [Benefits summary]

Pay transparency

Many states, including CA, CO, NY, WA, and IL, require a good-faith pay range in job postings; check your state's rules before publishing.

See the rules for your state in HR laws by state.

Write a more inclusive posting

  • Require a degree or CPA only if the work truly needs it; many skilled accountants have equivalent experience, and over-requiring narrows your pool.
  • Describe busy-season hours honestly and specifically rather than 'must be willing to work whenever needed', which can deter caregivers.
  • If you plan a background or credit check, follow federal and state rules and avoid blanket statements like 'clean credit required'; check your state's rules.

Hiring a accountant?

Prepare the interview too: 15 questions, red flags and questions to avoid.

Accountant interview questions

Frequently asked questions

Should I give accountant candidates a skills test?

A short practical test, like a reconciliation or a few journal entries, is a fair way to verify skills. Use the same test for every candidate and keep it focused on the job.

Does an accountant job description need to require a CPA?

Only if the role signs off on audits or needs licensed work. For many small-business accounting roles, listing CPA as a nice to have attracts more qualified applicants.

Can I run a credit check on accountant candidates?

Federal law requires written consent and specific notices, and several states and cities limit credit checks for hiring. Check your state's rules before including one in your process.

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