Entry level accounting jobs are roles designed for beginners with little or no work experience. These jobs help new graduates, career switchers, and trainees learn accounting basics while earning income. This guide explains the roles, skills, pay expectations, and how beginners can get hired.
Who This Guide Is For
This guide is for:
- Students and recent graduates
- Career switchers entering accounting
- Job seekers with basic accounting knowledge
- NYSC members and fresh professionals
- Anyone searching for entry level accounting jobs
No professional accounting license is required to start.
What Are Entry Level Accounting Jobs?
Entry level accounting jobs are junior roles that focus on basic financial tasks. These roles support senior accountants and finance teams.
They involve recording transactions, organizing financial data, and assisting with reports. Most roles provide on-the-job training.
Common Entry Level Accounting Job Titles
Many beginner roles use different titles. The duties are often similar.
Accounting Assistant
An accounting assistant supports daily accounting work.
Typical tasks include:
- Recording invoices and receipts
- Updating accounting records
- Assisting with payroll data
- Filing financial documents
This role is common in small and medium businesses.
Junior Accountant
A junior accountant works under a senior accountant.
Typical tasks include:
- Posting journal entries
- Preparing trial balances
- Assisting with financial statements
- Reviewing expense records
This role offers strong learning opportunities.
Accounts Payable Clerk
This role focuses on outgoing payments.
Typical tasks include:
- Processing supplier invoices
- Verifying payment details
- Recording vendor payments
- Reconciling supplier statements
Attention to detail is important.
Accounts Receivable Clerk
This role focuses on incoming payments.
Typical tasks include:
- Issuing invoices to customers
- Recording customer payments
- Following up on unpaid invoices
- Updating receivable records
It supports cash flow management.
Bookkeeping Clerk
Bookkeeping clerks handle daily financial records.
Typical tasks include:
- Recording sales and expenses
- Updating ledgers
- Reconciling cash and bank balances
- Organizing financial data
This role builds strong accounting foundations.
Payroll Assistant
Payroll assistants support salary processing.
Typical tasks include:
- Collecting employee payroll data
- Calculating basic wages and deductions
- Assisting with payroll reports
- Maintaining payroll records
Accuracy and confidentiality are essential.
Entry Level Accounting Jobs Without Experience
Many employers hire beginners without experience if they have basic knowledge.
Common roles include:
- Accounting assistant
- Bookkeeping clerk
- Accounts payable clerk
- Accounts receivable clerk
Internships and trainee roles also count as entry level jobs.
Minimum Education Requirements
Most entry level accounting jobs require:
- Diploma, OND, HND, or degree in accounting, finance, or business
- Basic understanding of accounting principles
Some roles accept candidates with certificates or short courses.
Skills Needed for Entry Level Accounting Jobs
Employers focus on practical skills more than advanced theory.
Basic Accounting Skills
- Understanding debits and credits
- Knowledge of income statements and balance sheets
- Basic bookkeeping skills
These are essential for daily tasks.
Computer and Software Skills
- Microsoft Excel basics
- Accounting software familiarity
- Data entry accuracy
Many companies train beginners on their tools.
Organizational Skills
- Record keeping
- File management
- Time management
These skills improve work efficiency.
Communication Skills
- Clear written communication
- Basic reporting skills
- Ability to follow instructions
Entry level roles involve teamwork.
Certifications That Help Beginners
Certifications are not mandatory but improve employability.
Common beginner certifications include:
- ICAN ATS
- ACCA Foundations
- Bookkeeping certificates
- Basic accounting diplomas
These show commitment and basic competence.
Entry Level Accounting Jobs Salary Expectations
Salaries vary by location, company size, and role.
Entry level roles typically offer:
- Monthly salaries or stipends
- Structured salary increases with experience
- Benefits such as training or study support
Accounting roles often grow steadily over time.
Entry Level Accounting Jobs for Graduates
Graduates often start in:
- Graduate trainee programs
- Junior accountant roles
- Accounting assistant positions
These roles provide exposure to multiple accounting functions.
Entry Level Accounting Jobs for Career Switchers
Career switchers can enter accounting by:
- Taking short accounting courses
- Gaining bookkeeping skills
- Applying for assistant or clerk roles
Employers value transferable skills like organization and attention to detail.
Entry Level Accounting Jobs in Small Businesses
Small businesses offer:
- Broader task exposure
- Hands-on learning
- Faster responsibility growth
These roles help beginners learn multiple accounting areas.
Entry Level Accounting Jobs in Corporate Organizations
Large companies offer:
- Structured roles
- Clear job descriptions
- Formal training programs
Growth may be slower but more organized.
Remote Entry Level Accounting Jobs
Some entry level roles are remote.
Common remote tasks include:
- Data entry
- Invoice processing
- Bookkeeping support
Remote roles require reliable internet and discipline.
How to Prepare for Entry Level Accounting Jobs
Preparation increases hiring chances.
Learn Accounting Basics
Focus on:
- Double entry bookkeeping
- Trial balance preparation
- Basic financial statements
These topics appear in interviews.
Practice with Examples
Practice using:
- Sample transactions
- Simple accounting exercises
- Spreadsheet bookkeeping
Practice improves confidence.
Build a Simple Resume
A beginner resume should include:
- Education
- Relevant courses or certifications
- Accounting skills
- Internship or project experience
Clarity matters more than length.
Common Interview Questions for Entry Level Accounting Jobs
Interviewers often ask:
- What is debit and credit
- How do you record expenses
- What is a trial balance
- How do you handle errors
Clear, simple answers are enough.
Where to Find Entry Level Accounting Jobs
Common job sources include:
- Company career pages
- Job boards
- Accounting firms
- Internship and trainee programs
Consistent applications increase success.
Entry Level Accounting Jobs Career Progression
Entry level roles can lead to:
- Accountant roles
- Senior accounting positions
- Finance or audit roles
Experience and certifications support growth.
Accounting vs Bookkeeping at Entry Level
Many beginners confuse the two.
- Bookkeeping focuses on daily records
- Accounting focuses on analysis and reporting
Entry level jobs may include both tasks.
Common Mistakes Beginners Make
- Applying without basic accounting knowledge
- Ignoring bookkeeping roles
- Poor resume formatting
- Skipping internships or traineeships
Avoiding these improves job prospects.
Entry Level Accounting Jobs and Professional Exams
Many beginners work while studying for:
- ICAN
- ACCA
- CPA
Entry level jobs support exam preparation through practical exposure.
Why Entry Level Accounting Jobs Are a Good Start
These jobs offer:
- Stable career paths
- Transferable skills
- Opportunities across industries
- Clear progression
Accounting skills remain in demand.
FAQ: Entry Level Accounting Jobs
What is the best entry level accounting job for beginners?
Accounting assistant and bookkeeping clerk roles are common starting points.
Do I need experience to get an entry level accounting job?
No. Basic knowledge and willingness to learn are often enough.
Can I get an accounting job without a degree?
Yes. Certificates and practical skills can qualify candidates.
Are entry level accounting jobs stressful?
Most are structured and manageable for beginners.
How long does it take to move up from entry level?
With good performance, progression can happen within 1 to 3 years.
Key Takeaways
- Entry level accounting jobs are designed for beginners
- Roles focus on basic financial tasks
- Experience is not always required
- Skills and certifications improve hiring chances
- These roles offer long-term career growth
Entry level accounting jobs provide a practical starting point for anyone entering the accounting profession.
