What does a Senior Staff Accountant do?
Published 3 min read
A senior staff accountant is responsible for a wide range of activities, from preparing journal entries and reconciling accounts to preparing financial statements and assisting with audits. They may also be responsible for managing a team of junior accountants and providing mentorship.
Senior Staff Accountant job duties include:
- Maintaining and reconciling ledgers
- Preparing month-end and year-end closing entries
- Performing account analysis and reconciliations
- Preparing financial statements
- Assisting with auditing processes
- Tax planning and preparation
- Cost accounting
- Inventory management
- Accounts receivable/accounts payable management
Senior Staff Accountant Job Requirements
A Senior Staff Accountant typically needs to have a Bachelor's degree in accounting, although some employers may require a Master's degree. They also need to have at least 3 years of experience working in accounting and should be certified as a Certified Public Accountant (CPA).
Senior Staff Accountant Skills
- Bachelor’s degree in accounting or related field
- 5+ years of experience in accounting or related field
- Proficient in accounting software (e.g. QuickBooks, Microsoft Dynamics GP)
- Thorough knowledge of Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP)
- Strong analytical and problem solving skills
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills
- Detail oriented with strong organizational skills
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team
- Flexible and adaptable to change
- Ability to meet deadlines and handle multiple tasks simultaneously
- Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook)
Related: Top Senior Staff Accountant Skills: Definition and Examples
How to become a Senior Staff Accountant
A Senior Staff Accountant is a professional who provides accounting and financial services to clients. They are responsible for preparing financial statements, managing budgets, and providing advice on financial planning and investment strategies. Senior Staff Accountants typically have a bachelor's degree in accounting or a related field, and many also have a master's degree. They must be licensed by the state in which they practice. To become a Senior Staff Accountant, one must first complete an accredited accounting program and pass the Uniform CPA Examination.
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