Accountant Resume Examples for 2024
Create a standout resume that gets you noticed with these accountant resume examples.
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Entry-Level Accountant Resume
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Senior Accountant Resume
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Junior Accountant Resume
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Many accountants consider themselves left-brain-thinkers with strengths in logic, facts, and math, so accountant resume examples are a great resource to use when crafting your resume. You don’t need creativity. Examples show what to include and how to format it, providing a visual guide and inspiration.
Organizations of all types—governments, non-profits, and large corporations—rely on accountants for success. The Bureau of Labor Statistics says accountant and auditor jobs will grow by 4% between now and 2032. That’s about 126,500 openings for accountants and auditors each year for the next decade.
With your tailored resume, you can get your ideal accounting job.
Accountant resume examples can show you what a good resume looks like. They can also give you inspiration for the layout and format of your own resume.
Accountants are skilled at examining financial reports, computing taxes, inspecting accounts and books, fraud prevention, maintaining financial records, and assessing financial operations. Your resume will reflect your skill levels, your years of experience, and your areas of focus.
It’s important to remember that accountant resume samples are a starting point. You should tailor your resume to your specific skills, experiences, and the job you are applying for.
Accountant resume examples
Accounting intern resume
If you are a recent graduate or have limited work experience in accounting, securing an internship can be the first step in a lucrative career. An accounting intern resume can help you show your transferable skills and potential. This is true even when you lack hands-on experience.
Accounting intern resume example
In your resume, highlight any relevant work experience you have, even if it is not directly related to accounting. This could include internships, part-time jobs, or volunteer positions.
Were you a treasurer in a club or organization during university? Add it to your resume. Emphasize any experience that demonstrates your understanding of basic accounting principles.
Include a section on your resume that highlights any relevant coursework or certifications you have completed. This can show potential employers that you have a solid foundation in accounting principles and are eager to learn and grow in the field.
Why this resume works
Make the most of your non-traditional experience to supplement your lack of work history. Use club memberships, school or personal projects, and volunteer work and tie it to your accounting skills.
This resume emphasizes the applicant’s role as a treasurer. Participation in school assignments that mimic real-world accounting projects will also set this candidate apart.
Entry-level accountant resume
If you are looking for an entry-level accounting job, your resume should focus on highlighting your transferable skills and demonstrating your eagerness to learn.
Entry-level accountant resume example
You have some skills that can transfer to accounting, including attention to detail, problem-solving, analytical thinking, and proficiency in accounting software.
Include any relevant coursework or certifications you have completed. Also include internships or part-time jobs that show your work ethic and ability to handle finances.
Why this resume works
Highlight education and vital skills in your resume summary to grab the hiring manager’s attention. This resume from an accounting intern emphasized measurable accomplishments, even though they worked alongside a team.
It shows off the ability to work with others to achieve a common goal which is key for moving up in your accounting career.
Junior accountant resume
As a junior accountant, your resume should highlight your knowledge of accounting principles and your ability to handle basic accounting tasks.
Junior accountant resume example
Include a section on your resume that highlights your experience with general ledger management. This could include any experience you have with recording financial transactions, reconciling accounts, and preparing financial statements.
Highlight your ability to generate accurate and timely financial reports. Accuracy is crucial in accounting. So, emphasize any experience with data analysis, auditing, or other tasks needing high attention to detail.
Why this resume works
When you’re applying for a junior accounting position, show off your hard-earned skills and accomplishments. This resume includes key details, like education, measurable impacts, and certifications in the summary section.
Highlight the experience where you amassed your skills and illustrate your willingness to learn new ones.
Senior accountant resume
A senior accountant resume should focus on your experience and skill in financial management. It should also focus on your ability to lead and supervise a team.
Senior accountant resume example
Highlight your years of experience in the accounting field. This could include any positions you have held that prove your progression and growth as an accountant.
Emphasize your experience with financial management. This includes any experience you have with budgeting, forecasting, financial analysis, and strategic planning.
Why this resume works
Not only does this resume focus on the years of practical experience in accounting, but it also emphasizes the leadership skills necessary to be a successful senior team member.
The resume demonstrates a clear increase in responsibilities and accomplishments throughout the applicant’s career. Including professional memberships to highly respected organizations adds a layer of credibility to the applicant.
Staff accountant resume
A staff accountant resume should showcase your ability to handle a variety of financial tasks and your attention to detail in managing financial records.
Staff accountant resume example
These mid-level accountants have all-encompassing responsibilities for the finances of a business, from preparing reports, managing accounts payable, and following tax obligations to creating income statements, balance sheets, and cash flow statements.
Emphasize your ability to reconcile accounts and identify discrepancies. This could include any experience you have with verifying the accuracy of financial data, investigating inconsistencies, and resolving any issues that arise.
Why this resume works
Staff accountants can be a jack-of-all-trades in the finance industry. Tailoring your resume to the job description is critical to securing an interview. This resume shows a range of skills and accomplishments that show a strong understanding of several accounting best practices.
Forensic accountant resume
Forensic accounting is a specialized form of accounting that investigates financial data and analyzes financial records for legal purposes.
Forensic accountant resume example
If you want to write a forensic accountant resume, highlight your skill in investigating financial fraud. Also, emphasize your experience analyzing financial data for legal cases or giving expert testimony in court.
If your hands-on financial investigation skills are still developing, emphasize your technical skills. Focus on data analysis and financial software. Include any experience you have using specialized software to analyze financial records, identify patterns or discrepancies, and present findings.
Why this resume works
In the specialized field of forensic accounting, it’s important to highlight professional skills. This resume illustrates strong investigative skills, legal knowledge, and forensic accounting software experience.
Including a professional designation as a Certified Fraud Examiner provides proof of dedicated specialization and education.
Tax accountant resume
A tax accountant resume should focus on your expertise in tax preparation and compliance. It should also highlight your ability to navigate complex tax regulations.
Tax accountant resume example
Highlight your experience with preparing individual or business tax returns, calculating tax liabilities, and ensuring compliance with tax regulations.
Emphasize how you stay up-to-date on tax law changes. Mention any experience you have with conducting tax audits, resolving tax disputes, or representing clients or employers in dealings with tax authorities.
Why this resume works
Presenting yourself as an expert can help your job search. This resume highlights hands-on experience and specialized tax knowledge. The applicant highlights their skills in tax software and technology necessary to succeed in the role.
This job seeker also includes a specialized certification to boost their authority in the tax accounting space.
Property accountant resume
Real estate accounting and asset management are a specialized area of accounting. These accountants deal with financial matters that coincide with real estate sales, rental management, and property purchases.
Property accountant resume example
A property accountant resume should focus on your experience in property management and your ability to handle the financial aspects of property operations. Property accountants can work in accounting firms alongside other accountants, or work with property management companies or real estate companies.
Highlight your financial analysis skills and regulatory knowledge on your resume through experience, training, and certifications.
Why this resume works
A property accountant resume like this one emphasizes specific skills in property management and knowledge of real estate. The applicant illustrates their proficiencies by giving concrete examples with data and numbers to support their claims.
By including details of loss prevention, profit gained, and time saved, the hiring team can imagine the applicant’s impact on the organization.
Related resume guides
How to write an effective accountant resume
Any accountant resume should be tailored to the job description you’re applying for. Tailoring your resume is key. Every time you click “Apply,” your resume goes to an ATS, or applicant tracking system.
The ATS parses and organizes each applicant’s resume. When the hiring manager is ready, they can type in keywords from the job description to find the best candidates.
While you can tailor your resume manually, optimize your resume fast with Jobscan’s resume scanner. Upload your resume and the job description you’re applying for, and it will generate a match report illustrating what skills you’re missing and any formatting mistakes that will disrupt the ATS.
Don’t try to reinvent the wheel. Use standard resume elements and keywords. This will maximize your chances of the hiring manager seeing your resume.
Here’s what we’ll cover in this guide:
- Key elements of an accountant resume
- How to write a strong professional summary
- Skills to include on your accountant resume
- How to highlight your achievements as an accountant
- Why you should tailor your resume to the job description
- Relevant education and certifications to include
Key elements of an accountant resume
When crafting your accountant resume, there are several key elements to include:
- Resume summary
- Work experience
- Education
- Skills section
- Certifications
How to write a strong professional summary
The professional summary is the first thing a hiring manager will read on your resume. So, it’s key to making a strong impression. Keep the resume summary concise—no more than 2-5 sentences. Use clear and concise language to highlight your key qualifications and accomplishments.
Motivated and detail-oriented accounting graduate, proficient in financial analysis, reconciliations, and preparing financial statements. Skilled in using accounting software such as QuickBooks and Excel. A proactive team player with excellent communication skills and a commitment to accuracy and efficiency. Eager to contribute to a dynamic accounting team and continue learning and growing in the finance field.
Experienced and results-driven accountant with over 3 years of progressive experience in financial management, analysis, and reporting. Proficient in overseeing month-end close processes, conducting variance analysis, and ensuring compliance with regulatory standards. Demonstrated ability to streamline financial procedures and a proven track record of successfully delivering accurate financial insights to support strategic decision-making. Seeking to leverage expertise in a challenging mid-level accounting role to drive organizational success and foster continuous improvement.
Seasoned and strategic senior accountant with extensive experience in financial management, auditing, and regulatory compliance. Proven track record of leading high-performing accounting teams and driving financial excellence in complex organizations. Proficient in overseeing financial statement preparation, budgeting, forecasting, and internal control implementation. Expertise in liaising with external auditors, tax authorities, and senior management to ensure accurate financial reporting and compliance with industry standards. Seeking a senior-level accounting position to leverage expertise and contribute to organizational success.
Skills to include on your accountant resume
Whether or not you get the job will come down to your skills and how you convey them on your resume. The keywords hiring managers often search for are skills necessary to excel in the role, so developing your skill levels and including them in your resume is key.
Hard skills for accountants
- Financial analysis
- Data analysis
- Tax compliance
- Financial reporting
- Financial modeling
- QuickBooks
- Excel
- Regulatory filing
- Auditing
- Payroll
- Asset management
- Account reconciliation
- Invoicing
Soft skills for accountants
- Attention to detail
- Problem-solving
- Organization
- Time management
- Communication skills
- Critical thinking
- Teamwork
- Creative thinking
How to highlight your achievements as an accountant
Use action verbs and specific examples to highlight your achievements as an accountant. Instead of simply listing your responsibilities, focus on the impact you had and the results you achieved. Quantify your achievements whenever possible. It makes a greater impact on the hiring manager and shows concrete evidence of the impact you can have on their organization.
Some measurable accomplishments can center around:
- Cost savings
- Revenue growth
- Process improvements
- Regulatory compliance
- Risk management
Accountant resume achievements examples
- Prepared and analyzed monthly financial reports, resulting in a 10% reduction in expenses.
- Managed a portfolio of 50 client accounts, resulting in a 15% increase in revenue.
- Developed and implemented automated financial reporting tools, reducing report generation time by 50%.
- Identified and mitigated financial risks, resulting in a 15% reduction in exposure to financial losses.
Why you should tailor your resume to the job description
To make your accountant resume stand out, you must tailor it to the job description. Carefully read the job description and identify the key skills and qualifications the employer is looking for. Use these keywords throughout your resume to show that you have the necessary qualifications.
Highlight your relevant experience and skills that match the specific requirements of the job. Make sure you use language that mirrors the job description and showcases your fit for the role.
Jobscan’s resume scanner can help streamline your resume optimization. The resume scanner will generate a match report with an overall score. You’ll get a list of keywords from the job description to integrate into your resume.
Relevant education and certifications to include
When crafting your accountant resume, it’s important to include relevant education and certifications that demonstrate your qualifications for the role. Both formal and informal education teach you vital skills for success. These include accounting rules, bookkeeping, reporting, and software.
Accounting resume education section examples
Include your highest level of education. For example, a bachelor’s or master’s degree in accounting or a related field. If you have any specialized coursework or certifications relevant to the job, include those as well.
Bachelor of Business Administration in Accounting
York University, Toronto
2023
Relevant Coursework:
- Financial Accounting Principles
- Managerial Accounting Concepts
- Taxation Fundamentals
- Auditing Procedures
- Business Law and Ethics
Bachelor of Commerce, Accounting
Tulane University, New Orleans
2018
Master of Business Administration, Finance
McGill University, Montréal
Bachelor of Business Administration, Accounting
University of Québec, Montréal
Accounting resume certifications
If you hold any certifications, include those as well. These certifications can demonstrate your expertise and dedication to the field of accounting.
Some common certifications for accountants include:
Median accountant salary
Accountant resume tips
As an accountant, your resume should highlight your relevant education and certifications to showcase your qualifications for the role. Keep your relevant accomplishments and work history concise using bullet points.
Tailor your resume for the job
Quantify your achievements
Highlight relevant skills
Accountant common interview questions
Can you describe your experience with financial analysis and reporting?
Financial reporting is a key skill for your accountant resume, so provide clear examples of your experience. Hiring managers ask this to gauge your mastery of standard accounting practices. They also want to see your understanding of accounting processes.
An example of an interview response:
In a previous role at ABC Corporation, I led a comprehensive financial analysis project to optimize the company’s product pricing strategy. By analyzing historical sales data, cost structures, and market trends, I identified opportunities to adjust pricing for various product lines to maximize profitability while remaining competitive in the market.
By implementing standardized templates and advanced reporting software, we reduced the time required to produce monthly financial reports by 20%.
Furthermore, I implemented key performance indicators (KPIs) to track the effectiveness of our pricing strategy and regularly presented these findings to senior management. This transparency and data-driven approach to decision-making helped align the finance department with broader business objectives and fostered a culture of continuous improvement.
How do you handle tight deadlines and multiple projects at once?
Accountants have many projects on the go at all times, and with those projects come deadlines. This question helps hiring managers understand your time management skills. It shows your ability to prioritize and multi-task. And, it shows your attention to detail in ensuring accuracy. Give concrete examples to illustrate these transferable skills to the hiring manager.
An example of an interview response:
One example of my ability to manage tight deadlines and multiple projects occurred during a period of heightened activity at my previous company. We were undergoing an audit while simultaneously preparing quarterly financial statements and completing a budget review for the upcoming fiscal year.
To manage these tasks efficiently, I prioritized my workload based on deadlines and the criticality of each project. I utilized project management tools to create detailed timelines and task lists, ensuring that all essential tasks were accounted for and allocated sufficient time.
As a result of my strategic approach, I was able to meet all deadlines without sacrificing accuracy or quality. For instance, during the audit process, I collaborated closely with the audit team, providing requested documentation and resolving queries promptly, which contributed to a smooth and successful audit outcome.
What accounting software or systems are you familiar with?
Your skill level with enterprise resource planning systems or accounting software is central to your ability to perform your job. This interview question is an opportunity to show off your knowledge of leading software features, your experience using critical features, and your ability to adapt to new technologies.
An example of an interview response:
I have extensive experience with a range of accounting software and systems, including industry-leading platforms such as QuickBooks, Xero, and Sage Intacct. In my previous roles, I’ve utilized these systems for various accounting functions, including financial data management, bookkeeping, invoicing, payroll processing, and financial reporting.
At my previous company, we implemented QuickBooks Online to streamline our accounting processes and improve efficiency. I was involved in the setup and customization of the software to align with our company’s specific needs and workflows.
I assisted in the migration of the client’s financial data to Xero, configured the chart of accounts to reflect their business structure, and provided training to the client’s accounting team on how to use the software effectively.
Additionally, I’m familiar with Sage Intacct, which I used in a corporate setting for financial management and reporting purposes. I played a key role in optimizing the system’s functionality to meet the company’s evolving needs, including setting up automated workflows, designing custom financial reports, and integrating third-party applications for enhanced functionality.
Can you explain the steps you take to ensure accuracy in financial statements and reports?
In accounting, you deal with lots of money, tax laws, and strict regulations. So, small discrepancies can be costly. This interview question allows you to outline your process to maintain accuracy, use attention to detail, and detect inconsistencies.
An example of an interview response:
The first step is to verify the accuracy and completeness of the financial data being used. This involves reconciling accounts, cross-referencing data from multiple sources, and ensuring that all transactions are properly recorded.
I adhere to generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP) or other relevant accounting standards applicable to the organization. This ensures consistency and comparability in financial reporting and helps prevent errors.
I meticulously review each financial statement and report, checking for mathematical accuracy, proper classification of transactions, and compliance with accounting policies. I document the review process to provide a clear audit trail.
Implementing strong internal controls is essential for accuracy. This includes segregation of duties, approval processes for transactions, and regular monitoring of financial activities to detect and prevent errors or fraudulent activities.
By following these steps diligently, I am confident in my ability to produce accurate and reliable financial statements and reports that stakeholders can trust for decision-making purposes.
How do you stay up-to-date with changes in tax laws and regulations?
Rules and regulations are always changing, so it’s important to keep on top of the current best practices. The hiring manager will ask this question to learn more about your certifications, your understanding of regional laws, and your ability to work as an auditor.
An example of an interview response:
I actively participate in continuing education programs, seminars, and workshops focused on tax law updates. These programs are often offered by professional organizations, accounting firms, or industry associations and cover recent legislative changes, court rulings, and regulatory updates.
I regularly read professional publications, such as tax journals, newsletters, and online resources, to stay informed about changes in tax laws and regulations. These publications often provide in-depth analysis and insights into the implications of new tax laws for businesses and individuals.
I leverage online resources, including government websites, tax research databases, and reputable tax blogs, to access the latest information on tax laws and regulations. These resources often provide access to official publications, guidance documents, and updates from tax authorities.
I hold professional certifications, such as Certified Public Accountant (CPA) or Enrolled Agent (EA), which require ongoing education and adherence to ethical standards.
By actively engaging in these practices, I am able to stay informed about changes in tax laws and regulations and apply this knowledge effectively in my role as an accountant.
Can you provide an example of a difficult accounting problem you solved and how you approached it?
Not every project is smooth sailing. Your answer to this question should highlight your problem-solving abilities and adaptability in stressful situations.
An example of an interview response:
In a previous role, I encountered a complex accounting problem related to revenue recognition for a long-term construction project. The project involved multiple phases spanning several years, and revenue recognition was based on the percentage of completion method.
The challenge arose when unexpected delays occurred in the completion of certain project milestones, leading to uncertainty about the timing and amount of revenue that could be recognized. Additionally, changes in project scope and cost overruns further complicated the situation.
To address this problem, I conducted a thorough analysis of the project contract, including its terms, milestones, and any relevant amendments or change orders. Understanding the contractual obligations was crucial for determining the appropriate accounting treatment.
I re-evaluated the percentage of completion for each phase of the project based on the revised estimates of total costs and completion timelines. Then, meticulously documented the assumptions, methodologies, and judgments used in determining the percentage of completion and revenue recognition.
This experience reinforced the importance of careful analysis, clear communication, and collaboration in addressing complex accounting challenges.
Expert advice: include a cover letter with your resume
When applying for an accounting position, include a cover letter with your resume. It can help you stand out to the hiring manager. A well-crafted cover letter provides an opportunity to highlight specific achievements and skills not detailed in your resume.
A cover letter lets you tailor your application to the job description. Use it to illustrate how your experience and skills align with the company’s needs. Also, it shows your communication skills and attention to detail. These are key for an accounting role.
So, always consider including a personalized cover letter alongside your accountant resume.
Not everyone is a great writer, so use Jobscan’s cover letter generator within Power Edit. The tool pulls vital information from your resume and the job description to expand on key points the hiring manager will want to know.
Frequently asked questions: Accountant resume
When writing your accountant resume, include your relevant skills and experience. For example, financial reporting, account reconciliation, and accounting software.
Highlight your years of experience in financial analysis and preparing financial statements. Tailor your resume to each job description. Use action verbs in your bullet points to show your achievements. Consider adding a resume summary at the top of your resume to grab the hiring manager’s attention.
Don’t forget to include your certifications and education, along with any transferable skills that set you apart in the accounting field.
When writing a resume for an accounting internship with no experience, you can show your relevant skills and education. Also, include any volunteer work or activities that show your interest in accounting. Here are some tips to help you create a strong resume:
- Start with a summary statement or objective that highlights your career goals and what you can bring to the internship.
- Include a section on your education, listing any relevant coursework or projects related to accounting.
- Highlight any transferable skills you have, such as attention to detail, organization, analytical thinking, and proficiency in relevant software programs like Excel.
- If you joined any accounting-related clubs or volunteer organizations, be sure to include them on your resume.
- Consider including a section on relevant coursework or certifications if you have completed any courses or training that apply to the internship.
- Keep your resume concise and well-organized. Use bullet points to list your accomplishments.
- Proofread your resume carefully to ensure there are no typos or grammatical errors.
Remember, while you may not have direct accounting experience, highlighting your strengths and demonstrating your enthusiasm for learning can go a long way in securing an internship opportunity.
The best skills to feature on your resume depend on the job description you’re applying to. When you tailor your resume, your relevant skills should reflect the job description. That means you’ll likely leave out some highly proficient skills that aren’t highlighted in the job posting.
In general, when highlighting accounting skills on a resume, it is important to emphasize the following key skills:
- Financial Reporting: Demonstrating skill in preparing financial statements and reports, analyzing financial data, and ensuring accuracy in financial records.
- Budgeting and Forecasting: Showcasing your ability to create budgets, forecast financial trends, and make recommendations for financial planning and decision-making.
- Tax Preparation: Highlighting experience with tax compliance, filing tax returns, and staying updated on tax regulations to minimize liabilities.
- Auditing: Illustrating expertise in conducting internal or external audits, identifying discrepancies, and implementing corrective actions to improve financial controls.
- Accounting Software Proficiency: Mentioning skill in using accounting software like QuickBooks, SAP, or other relevant programs to manage financial transactions.
- Analytical Skills: Emphasizing strong analytical abilities to interpret complex financial data, identify trends, and make strategic recommendations based on financial analysis.
By highlighting these accounting skills on your resume, you can prove your qualifications and suitability for accounting roles.
When it comes to creating an accounting resume, the best format is one that is clear, concise, and tailored to showcase your skills and experience. Here are some tips for choosing the best accounting resume format:
Use a reverse-chronological format and start with your most recent work experience. This format makes it easy for employers to see your most recent and relevant qualifications.
List your responsibilities and achievements in each job using bullet points. Also, make sure your resume is easy to read with clear section headings.
Follow these tips. Tailor your resume to the job you are applying for. By doing so, you can create a strong accounting resume that will show off your qualifications.
