What does a Chartered Accountant do?
Chartered Accountants perform several tasks, including preparing income tax statements and conducting audits of their client’s or employer’s finances. Their certification indicates they have the authority to file a tax return and conduct audits on behalf of an organization.
Chartered Accountants may work independently or collaborate with Auditors, Financial Planners and other professionals within an accounting or a finance department. They are typically full-time employees who work in office environments. However, you may need a Chartered Accountant to be available during the weekends and evenings. They may specialize in areas such as assurance services, environmental accounting, personal financial plannings, forensics or valuation.
Chartered Accountant skills and qualifications
Chartered Accountants require a unique skill set to accomplish their tasks effectively. Some of these include:
- Expert handling of QuickBooks and other relevant accounting software
- Knowledge of local and federal tax laws and regulations
- Problem-solving and analytical thinking skills
- Written and verbal communication skills
- Meticulous and detail-oriented
- Excellent numeracy and mathematical knowledge
- Time management skills to prioritize tasks efficiently
Chartered Accountant experience requirements
Candidates for Chartered Accountant positions need three or more years of work experience in a related financial role. Consider those who have worked as a Junior Accountant, Bookkeeper, or Accounts Administrator. Qualified candidates also have experience working with local and federal tax laws.
Chartered Accountant education and training requirements
A Chartered Accountant must have a university degree in accounting or related fields to work. They must also complete a professional training program that a provincial or territorial institute of Chartered Accountants approves. Candidates typically need two years of on-the-job training before working on their own or managing a team of other accountants. Depending on the province or territory, Chartered Accountants can also apply for chartered accounting roles. Candidates must undergo 30 months of on-the-job training, complete the Uniform Evaluation (UFE) exam, and be a member of the relevant provincial or territorial institute.
Job description samples for similar positions
If a Chartered Accountant isn’t exactly what you’re looking for, some related job description samples include: