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What does an Accounting Specialist do?

Photo of Brenna Goyette
Brenna Goyette
Certified Professional Resume Writer, Career Expert

Published 3 min read

An accounting specialist is responsible for maintaining financial records, preparing financial reports, and ensuring compliance with financial regulations. They may also provide advice on financial planning and investment strategies.

Accounting Specialist job duties include:

  • Accounts Payable: Verify accuracy of invoices and coding; process invoices for payment.
  • Accounts Receivable: Process customer invoices and apply payments.
  • Bank Reconciliations: Reconcile bank statements.
  • Financial Reporting: Prepare various financial reports as needed.
  • General Ledger: Maintain the general ledger and prepare journal entries.
  • Payroll: Process employee payroll.
  • Sales Tax: Prepare and file sales tax returns.
  • Budgeting: Assist with the preparation of the annual budget.
  • Auditing: Assist with the annual audit.
  • Other duties as assigned

Accounting Specialist Job Requirements

Most accounting specialists have a bachelor's degree in accounting, although some have a degree in business administration with a concentration in accounting. Many employers also require certification, such as the Certified Public Accountant (CPA) designation. In addition, accounting specialists should have strong computer skills and experience with accounting software.

Accounting Specialist Skills

  • Accounts payable
  • Accounts receivable
  • Bank reconciliations
  • Bookkeeping
  • Budgeting
  • Cash management
  • Financial analysis
  • Financial reporting
  • General ledger
  • Inventory management
  • Payroll processing
  • Tax preparation

Related: Top Accounting Specialist Skills: Definition and Examples

How to become an Accounting Specialist

The first step to becoming an accounting specialist is to obtain a bachelor's degree in accounting or a related field. Many accounting specialists also have a master's degree in accounting or business administration. In addition, most states require accountants to be licensed by passing the Uniform Certified Public Accountant Examination.

Once you have met the educational requirements, you will need to gain experience in the field. Many accounting specialists start their careers as staff accountants or auditors. As you gain experience, you may move into management positions or become a certified public accountant (CPA).

To be successful as an accounting specialist, you must have strong analytical and problem-solving skills. You must be able to pay attention to detail and maintain accurate records. In addition, you must be able to communicate effectively with clients and co-workers.

Related: Accounting Specialist Resume Example

Related: Accounting Specialist Interview Questions (With Example Answers)

Editorial staff

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Editor

Brenna Goyette

Expert Verified

Brenna is a certified professional resume writer, career expert, and the content manager of the ResumeCat team. She has a background in corporate recruiting and human resources and has been writing resumes for over 10 years. Brenna has experience in recruiting for tech, finance, and marketing roles and has a passion for helping people find their dream jobs. She creates expert resources to help job seekers write the best resumes and cover letters, land the job, and succeed in the workplace.

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