What does an Assistant Accountant do?

An Assistant Accountant is usually an entry-level position for those wanting to start their career in the finance industry. Assistant Accounts assist with the standard, day-to-day accounting procedures of an organisation, giving their more senior accounting colleagues the time to devote to more complex or conceptual tasks. These procedures can include the processing of invoices and maintenance of financial records, reconciliation of payroll hours and distribution of payments, and general office administration, in tasks such as answering the phone, handling customers, or filing documents. Most of this work is performed at a desk in the office, or else in meetings with colleagues, and is essential to the smooth daily operations of any business.

Assistant Accountant skills and qualifications

Assistant Accounts should demonstrate a diligent work ethic and an eagerness to learn and adapt to the changing demands of their position. They should be able to work well independently, managing several different deadlines at the same time. Some level of familiarity with standard accounting practices is necessary as a starting point, as is a high level of mathematical competency and comfort in using a range of computer programs necessary for their tasks.

• Knowledge of basic bookkeeping procedures and the ability to produce accurate financial reports
• Advanced mathematical competency, meticulous attention to detail and the ability to spot errors
• Discretion in handling confidential or sensitive financial data
• The ability to meet strict reporting deadlines on multiple assignments
• Familiarity with finance regulations relevant to the industry and jurisdiction of the organisation and Australian Accounting Standards

Assistant Accountant experience requirements

The role of Assistant Accountant may not require any previous professional experience in a related field, nor any academic experience. Depending on the nature of the organisation and the specific role being advertised, it may be suitable for candidates with as little as a high-school graduation diploma, as long as they have the necessary technical skills in mathematics and accounting.

For Assistant Accounting positions that require more experience, consider requiring up to three years’ work experience in a similar role or else (or in combination with) a technical qualification, such as a Diploma of Accounting or a Bachelor’s Degree in Finance, Commerce, Accounting, Business Administration, or related field.

Assistant Accountant education and training requirements

There is no particular formal education requirement to become an Assistant Account. High-school graduates with no higher education qualification can be successful candidates for the role, as long as they have an aptitude for mathematics, and are organised and diligent. Most of the training will come from hands-on, on-the-job experience.
That said, there are a number of education options for candidates wishing to distinguish themselves. The completion of an internship with a financial services company is a good indicator of a promising candidate, and many will have also completed undergraduate study in accounting, economics or mathematics, or other related courses. Ultimately, the education requirements for your position will depend on the specific needs of your organisation.

Assistant accountant salary expectations

According to Indeed Salaries, the average salary for an assistant accountant is $69,963. Actual salaries can vary widely depending on a number of factors.

Job description samples for similar positions

If this job description for an assistant accountant isn’t exactly what you need, you can take a look through some other descriptions we have listed for similar positions.

• Accountant
• Accounting clerk
• Accounts assistant
• Junior accountant

Assistant Account job description FAQs

What’s the difference between an Assistant Account and an accounts assistant?

An accounts assistant is a more junior position than an Assistant Account, with a narrower set of responsibilities. Specifically, they assist accounting staff to maintain a specific account or ledger, ensuring data is entered correctly and is available for review by others. There is no particular experience or qualification requirements to become an accounts assistant.

An Assistant Account, by contrast, takes on a broader set of accounting responsibilities and administration tasks, as required by the finance department. They might be expected to have at least minimal training or experience in accounting procedures.

What makes a good Assistant Account?

As a junior position within a department, an Assistant Accountant must demonstrate excellent team-work skills, the ability to adapt to a diverse set of tasks, learn procedures quickly and carried them out correctly. Technical knowledge can be acquired on the job, through the experience of working with more senior team members, but the aforementioned personal qualities should be prized in candidates.