What does an accounting clerk do?
An accounting clerk works within a company’s accounting or finance department, providing support to the team or more senior financial staff, like accountants or auditors. Unlike bookkeepers, accounting clerks typically work for large organizations. Their duties can differ depending on the type of business and the clients or customers it serves. Accounting clerks are typically expected to know how to handle common financial transactions, like payments and invoicing, along with record keeping and producing reports. They may also be required to manage payroll and assist with the company’s taxes.
Accounting clerk skills and qualifications
An effective accounting clerk is generally expected to have specific technical skills, as well as a broad knowledge of basic finance. Here are some key skills and qualifications to look for when reviewing candidates for your accounting clerk position:
- Robust knowledge of basic finance principles and Canadian financial regulations
- Proficiency in MS Excel and common accounting software (e.g. QuickBooks)
- Strong analytical and numerical skills
- Attention to detail and an eye for accuracy
- Effective communication and the ability to work in a team
Accounting clerk experience requirements
An accounting clerk is often considered an entry-level role in the finance industry but, depending on your company’s needs, you may want to seek candidates with at least one or two years of experience. If your organization does not have many complex financial needs, you could also consider accounting clerk candidates who have recently completed a relevant diploma or certificate, along with prior work experience, internships or voluntary roles.
Accounting clerk education and training requirements
There are no specific qualifications or training required for an accounting clerk in Canada, but most candidates will have some form of previous finance education. This education could include a high school diploma with excellent grades in mathematics, alongside electives like accounting or business studies. The candidate may have furthered their studies with a college diploma in finance, bookkeeping or accounting or have completed courses or certifications in these subjects. Some accounting clerks are certified by organizations like the Certified Professional Bookkeepers of Canada (CPB), but this is not compulsory.
Accounting clerk salary expectations
According to Indeed Salaries, the average salary for an accounting clerk in Canada is $60,282 per year. Salaries may be dependent on experience, industry, location and company.
Job description samples for similar positions
If an accounting clerk is not quite what you’re looking for, here are some job descriptions for similar roles to consider:
Accounting clerk job description FAQs
What’s the difference between an accounting clerk and a bookkeeper?
An accounting clerk typically works alongside more senior finance professionals in an accounting or finance team at a sizeable organization. They often focus on specific accounting tasks and finance-related administrative duties. They may also be expected to have some knowledge of complex financial tasks, like auditing or forecasting. On the other hand, the role of a bookkeeper is usually broader, as they often work for small companies. For example, a small business, like an independent store, may employ a bookkeeper to handle its day-to-day finances. However, Bookkeepers aren’t typically expected to handle high-level accounting responsibilities like auditing.
What are the best soft skills for an accounting clerk to have?
There are various soft skills or interpersonal skills that can be advantageous in the role of an accounting clerk. Look for candidates with soft skills like the ability to work well in a team, strong verbal and written communication skills, analytical thinking and problem-solving skills, and the ability to work effectively under pressure or time constraints.
How can I make my accounting clerk job description stand out?
Because the nature of the role often varies from one organization to another, try to provide a comprehensive breakdown of the skills you’re seeking from an accounting clerk, including proficiency in any accounting or financial software your teams use. To make the role stand out to top candidates, you can also mention any benefits you offer employees, like incentives and bonuses, pension contributions, flexible working options or other perks.
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