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10+ Accountant Resume Samples That’ll Make Your Application Count

• Martin Poduska , 
• Updated September 8, 2023 7 min read

If you're an accountant who wants to land a job, there are several simple rules to follow when it comes to writing a resume. In this article, you'll find the perfect accountant resume samples that will serve as an inspiration for you, so you can learn from the best.

Remember, on average, your resume has only 6 seconds to leave a lasting impression. A well-written and visually pleasing resume ensures your professional qualities get the attention they deserve. 

And in the end, it may be the resume that gets you the dream accountant job. 

Table of Contents

Click on a section to skip

• What is expected of an accountant's resume: the basics

1. Student Accountant Resume Sample

2. accounting specialist resume example, 3. entry-level accountant resume sample, 4. senior accounting manager resume example, 5. senior accountant resume example, 6. mid-level accountant resume example, 7. tax accountant resume sample, 8. financial accountant resume example, 9. accounting manager resume sample, 10. senior accountant resume example, 11. db schenker accountant resume example, 12. accounting auditor resume sample, 13. financial auditor resume example, what is expected of an accountant's resume: the basics.

As an accountant, what you want to do first and foremost, is to stand out while communicating dependability and attention to detail. For this reason, flashy resume templates are a big no-go in the world of accounting resumes. 

Each of the accountant resume samples below uses a minimalistic template that implies these qualities. 

The language has to follow the same principle as the design. It needs to be precise, straight to the point, and contain all the important keywords.

How you structure the information in your CV is equally important. 

For this reason, in designing these accountant resume samples we’ve paid most attention to their structure and formatting. Each of the individual sections is divided into bullet points, which facilitates easy reading. You want to do the same. 

But enough words! Learn what you can from these 10 accountant resume samples !

Numbers don't lie.

Scan your resume for issues and find out your resume score. Learn how to improve it.

This resume sample exemplifies what an accounting student resume should look like. 

At this point in your career, you probably don’t have much experience to show. For this reason, the education and skills sections dominate this resume. Each of these two sections is quite extensive in this accountant resume sample and describes in detail what skills did the candidate acquire and how.

Finally, when you cannot depend on previous experience, related extracurricular activities can help support your candidacy too.

Student Accountant Resume Sample

This resume was written by our experienced resume writers specifically for this profession.

When you’re applying for an accounting specialist position, you need a very strong resume. Once you’ve acquired two or more years of professional experience , the only remaining challenge is to articulate it well on a resume.

Notice how this resume opens with a professional summary . By doing this, it allows hiring managers to immediately find what they want to see.

In this resume sample, we’ve put the education section right after the profile. Although it’s not a big mistake, you might want to consider putting it below your work history section. After all, two years into your career education becomes less relevant.

Accounting Specialist Resume Example

This graduate accountant resume sample is razor-sharp in its focus. Naturally, education comes first — straight out of college , your degree is still your strongest asset. 

Since this particular candidate did multiple internships during his studies, the rest of the resume simply lists the experience he acquired during that time. And does it in an easy-to-read and structured manner.

Entry-level Accountant Resume Sample

As a seasoned professional, you could easily write a resume more packed with relevant information than this one. Despite that, we wanted to show that sometimes it’s equally useful to let your resume breathe a little. 

This resume doesn’t overwhelm hiring managers with walls of text but makes great use of white space and straight-to-the-point bullet points. Something to keep in mind while writing your own resume. You don’t always need to include every piece of information to make a lasting impression.

Senior Accounting Manager Resume Example

This accountant resume sample packs a lot of information on a single page. If you’ve ever felt like you can’t possibly make your resume shorter, this sample proves you wrong. 

Note the use of past tense in the first two bullet point sections as compared to the last section’s simple list of responsibilities. The lesson is clear — what you did is always more impressive than what you were supposed to do.

Senior Accountant Resume Example

This accountant resume sample is designed to do a lot with little . In spite of the candidate’s limited experience, the resume succeeds in making it look more robust than it actually is. 

One of the reasons behind this is a smart choice of a resume template — it makes the space reserved for text more conflated. Another reason is its use of strong visual elements, such as charts and sliders. It’s a great example of how the content of your resume has to go in hand with its form.

Mid-Level Accountant Resume Example

When applying for a job as a CPA tax analyst, you need a very strong resume. The resume below has an air of steadfast responsibility about it. 

The template design is very formal and doesn’t seek to impress in anything but its minimalism. Similarly, you’d be hard-pressed to find anything irrelevant on this resume. Instead, this accountant resume sample packs an impressive number of keywords to ensure that it gets through any ATS.

Tax Accountant Resume Sample

A pretty standard mid-level accountant resume sample. The opening career summary outlines the candidate’s strongest qualities while remaining concise.

If you want to improve on it, structure your summary using bullet points to make it easier to read. Second, notice the use of past tense in each of the subsections. Such use of language has a much greater impact on the reader than a simple list of responsibilities . 

Finally, even if keywords are missing in the main body of the resume, the strengths section makes up for it.

Financial Accountant Resume Example

In many ways, the resume below is a great example of how not to do it . Although it belongs to a candidate who held multiple managerial positions, it hardly ever presents any quantifiable accomplishments. Numbers are impactful and you should never pass on an opportunity to present your experiences by using them.

Otherwise, this resume sample is clear and well-structured. The use of a two-column template design allows it to pack a lot of information on a single page.

Accounting Manager Resume Sample

An accountant resume like the one below impresses with the candidate’s sheer wealth of experience and skills. Remember, it’s all about those first 6 seconds.

This accountant resume example catches the recruiters’ attention by making it visually apparent that this candidate’s experience is extensive . The takeaway is clear — once you’ve become a seasoned professional, even a wall of text on your resume doesn’t necessarily have to be a bad thing.

This resume stands out from the crowd. It was provided by one of the Kickresume clients who, also thanks to this resume, managed to land a job at DB Schenker as an accountant. 

It's easy to see why. Even though Emma used one of the most basic (and free!) templates, when it comes to applying for an accountant job, this isn't a problem. Simplicity is the vibe that you want to go for. Moreover , this resume has the perfect length. It's no longer the rule that a resume should be only a page long. One to two pages are ideal.

DB Schenker Accountant Resume Example

This resume sample was contributed by a real person who got hired with Kickresume’s help.

This resume template allows the CV to have a clear structure and while it has a little color, it creates a highly professional and sleek impression.

What we can learn from this accountant resume sample is that sticking to rules will get you far. This resume has all the predictable parts that it needs , including the accountant resume profile. 

Work experience is placed first (as it should be), which is then followed by the education and skills sections. The resume of this type is welcomed by hiring managers as it is familiar and well-structured  — and therefore easy to read.

Accounting Auditor Resume Sample

This template is a little too colorful for an average accountant's resume. However, the overall impression remains professional and highly structured. 

Moreover, this accountant resume sample is the perfect example of how extra sections on your resume can enhance the quality of the whole CV. If you have a volunteering experience or a special certificate, make sure that you always include it.

Financial Auditor Resume Example

Finally, if you feel like you still need more advice, check out our ultimate resume guide . Or even better, get your own resume analyzed and see what you can improve!

Get a resume that really counts.

Impress HR managers with a stunning template.

Martin Poduska is a resume expert and career advice writer at Kickresume. He leads Kickresume’s team of writers and is the main person responsible for upholding the standards of expertise and quality on the blog. In addition to having written nearly 100 in-depth, painstakingly researched resume advice articles, as chief editor he has also edited and revised every single article on this blog. Tens of thousands of job seekers read Martin’s resume advice every month. Martin holds a degree in English from the University of St Andrews and a degree in Comparative Literature from the University of Amsterdam.

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Accountant resume examples & templates

Choosing the right resume format for accounting

Include your contact information, make use of a summary, outline your accounting work experience, include the relevant key skills that make you a great accountant, detail your education & relevant accounting certifications, pick the right resume layout and design for an accountant resume.

Every business needs an accountant, and every accountant resume that’s worthy of a prospective employer’s attention needs to measure up on multiple counts.

Accountants know that attention to detail and careful calculation are requirements for a job well done, but it turns out that applies to resume writing as well. Your resume offers a first impression to the hiring team, so it's important to make it a good one. 

Resume guide for an accounting resume

Resume.io is here to help. Our resume builder and field-tested resume examples for over 500 professions will give you the advantage to stay ahead in your pursuit of a dream accountant job. 

This resume guide and corresponding accountant resume example will cover the following topics:

How to write an accounting resume

• How to choose the right format for an accounting resume
• How to include your contact information
• Using summaries
• Including your accounting experience
• Listing your education and certifications
• Selecting the right resume design/layout
• The job market and outlook for accountants today

Let's jump in.

Before you get started, you need to know what your accountant resume should include. Here are the necessary sections:

• The resume header
• The resume summary (aka profile or personal statement)
• The employment history section
• The resume skills section
• The education section

Your resume should reflect the unique you bring as an accountant. To start, gather as much information as possible about the company and role to which you're applying. Try to understand the company's needs and plan to showcase how you are exactly the right accountant to solve their problems. 

To do this well, stick to this formula:

• Highlight your accomplishments , not just your job duties. Anyone can list the tasks they were assigned, but showcasing your specific achievements will further prove your value.
• Tailor your resume for each application you submit by adjusting the style and tone to match that of the employer.
• Convey a professional, streamlined image with a resume template that's polished, not stuffy or overly formal.
• Include relevant keywords to make sure the reader or system can understand exactly what you've accomplished.

Optimize for the ATS

An applicant tracking system , or ATS, is a system companies use to collect and manage applications. Advanced applicant tracking systems may use algorithms to assist in screening resumes. They may look for keywords that are aligned with the job description, then pass forward those that rank highest.

For example, an accountant job posting may include the following requirements:  

• “Proficiency in various accounting software."
• "Knowledge of accounting principles and standards."
• "Financial analysis expertise."

Your resume profile summary, when integrating the keywords, could read:  

“Accounting expert with 5 years of experience in both accounting and financial analysis. Fluent in multiple accounting software systems. Deep knowledge of accounting principles and standards, including GAAP." 

Your resume should be straightforward, professional, and easy to understand — the same qualities of a great accountant. 

While there are various resume formats, the best option is the reverse chronological format. This format showcases your most recent experience first then works backwards into your past roles. 

For those who are hoping to make a career transition or otherwise have a unique background, a functional format, which focuses on skills and talents rather than employers, may be useful. In other instances, a hybrid (combination) resume format makes sense in adapting chronological and functional elements.

Spend some time exploring the resume templates in our resume builder and select the format that best suits your situation. There are plenty of versions of each format available as resume examples , as well. 

Be sure to use a clean modern or professional layout for your accountant resume, as this will reflect your professional brand.

The resume header is your opportunity to make it clear whose resume the reader is viewing and how to contact you. It's imperative to make this as easily accessible as possible while ensuring it's presented professionally.

What sort of information should you include?

• Full name & title. List your first and last name as well as the title of the role you are pursuing.
• Professional email address. Use a clean format like [email protected] — not a quirky, unprofessional email address.
• Phone number. List a number where you can be easily contacted. Make sure you have a professional voicemail greeting and your voicemail box isn't full.
• Location . You need only list your city and state . Don’t list street address or zip code, as that's both outdated and unsafe. If you're willing to relocate for work, note "Willing to Relocate" here.
• LinkedIn. If your LinkedIn profile is active and relevant, link to it here.

Don’t include:

• Date of birth: This isn't necessary and could potentially lead to age discrimination .
• Personal details: Leave off any information related to your marital status, social security number, passport number , etc.

James Clark, Accountant

Philadelphia, PA

(267) 216-2188

[email protected]

James Clark

6500 Rossey Street

Philadelphia, PA 19119

United States

Accounting is typically characterized as a technical profession, but that should not stop you from infusing some personality in your accountant resume.  In particular, the summary (sometimes called a profile) of your accountant resume is the place for adding the human dimension. It also gives you a chance to challenge certain stereotypes about financial professionals being dry or uncooperative by nature. 

Think of your accountant resume summary as a story of expertise and character. In fact, this is really the only resume section where you can employ a bit of creativity, since it's relatively freeform while most other resume sections have standard formatting in bullet points. 

Make sure to use energetic language, action verbs, and positive statements. and let some character to shine through. Don't just repeat information from your resume in different words; instead, use this area to provide overarching themes about who you are, how you work, and what you've achieved. 

You can find adaptable accountant resume example summaries below:

Recent accounting graduate with one year of experience in account reconciliations, streamlining accounts, and financial planning. Highly motivated professional with an eagerness to learn and grow in the accounting industry. Comprehensive educational background and understanding of all aspects of accounting and financial planning. 

Certified Public Accountant with five years of experience in account reconciliations, streamlining accounts, and financial planning. Highly motivated professional with a proven track record of delivering accurate reports and high quality service. Possess a comprehensive understanding of all aspects of accounting and financial planning and able to train and mentor teammates in accounting best practices.

Certified Public Accountant and MBA with 10+ years of experience in account reconciliations, streamlining accounts, and financial planning. Strong leader with proven track record of driving teams to delivery accurate reports and high-quality service. Comprehensive expertise in all aspects of accounting and financial planning and able lead effective teams in attaining profit improvement. 

In accordance with a reverse chronological format, list your current or most recent job at the top of this section and work your way back from there. Don't go back more than 10-15 years; while your earlier experience is no doubt valuable, it may not be as relevant as more recent work. Plus, it can invite ageism. 

Only include information that is directly related to the kind of role you're targeting. If you have other experience you'd like to add, consider an "Other Experience" section to capture it. 

Beneath each employer and title heading, detail your contributions and achievements in succinct, specific bullet points. Omit the use of personal pronouns like "I" and "my." Start each bullet point with an action verb that reflects your impacted: managed, budgeted, analyzed, saved, assessed. 

Don't just list your job duties. Instead, demonstrate tangible outcomes. It's best if you can include specific numbers. Without that level of specificity, your resume may seem a bit bland — and who wants to further that accounting stereotype? 

For example, these bullets could be written by anyone:

• Handled accounting and financial analysis
• Analyzed budgets for the company as needed
• Filed financial reports and records

They're vague and nonspecific, right? Look what happens when you add more context:

• Managed accounting and financial analysis for 100-person organization as sole accountant on staff
• Saved $200k per year through careful budget analysis and uncovering unneeded expenses
• Improved accuracy and timeliness of financial report filing, achieving compliance for the first time

Take a look at the accountant employment history resume sample below:

Accountant at Huntington Associates, Philadelphia  July 2019 - September 2022 

• Oversaw the management of all company accounts.
• Processed staff payroll and other main aspects of financial transactions.
• Managed accounting team of 10 and ensured that all accounting records were complete and accurate.
• Explained financial matters to people outside of the finance department in a comprehensive way.
• Handled sensitive and confidential matters discreetly.
• Working closely with junior staff members while aiding them in the progression of their careers.

Staff Accountant at Dubone Partnership, New York  November 2014 - September 2018  

• Managed accounts by analyzing costs and revenues.
• Projected future trends based on analysis work.
• Managed complex expense reporting.
• Developed strategies for minimizing tax liability.
• Worked closely with auditors during all audit processes.
• Performed financial risk assessments for all future business projects.
• Organized sales and profit reports.
• Prepared, reviewed, and submitted crucial budget plans for company goals.

Accounting Records Manager at Pepsico, New York  October 2013 - October 2014 

• Supervised staff of 12 finance department members.
• Prepared budget and analyzed inventories, cost of goods, and general accounts.
• Served as a liaison between the accounting staff and the external audit staff.

The STAR method is effective for summarizing work experience highlights on your accounting resume. Simply describe: S — the situation; T — task(s); A — actions/strategy; and R — result achieved. Again, numbers and other outcome measurements are ideal.  This resume writing method is also useful to prepare for a job interview, as it helps keep your explanations logical and straightforward.

Accounting focuses on hard skills, and an accounting resume typically reflects that in about 90% of the content. However, you'll want both hard and soft skills to showcase your comprehensive expertise. Hard skills are those that are measurable, like experience with accounting software or particular financial regulations. On the other hand, soft skills are those that pertain more to how you think and work with others, like dependability, strong communication, or complex problem-solving. 

Keep in mind that your accounting resume should be concise and tailored to the specific accounting position you are seeking, so you don't need to include every single skill every time. One of the best tools for being selective about each specific resume skills section is your own master list. Create a separate document with just a bullet point list of your competencies and keep it handy for updating constantly. Then, for each new version of your accountant resume, analyze the job requirements and choose the most appropriate skills for your resume.

Resume.io offers several pre-written key skills to choose from when using the resume builder. You can also write in additional skills. 

Here's what the skills box looks like in our accountant resume template:

• Financial Reporting
• Cross-functional Collaboration

This isn't the only place to include your skills, though. In fact, you should try to weave them throughout your resume to showcase them in action with specific examples and metrics. 

For instance, your work experience could highlight things like:

• Proficiency with accounting software by including the systems you've used at your past jobs. For example, you can note that you worked with Excel for budget management.
• Accounting expertise by displaying your knowledge of principles (like GAAP), tax regulations, and cost analysis techniques.
• Attention to detail by showcasing your experience leading audits, catching errors, and saving the company money.

Look to the job posting for an idea of which skills are most impactful to include. 

Your resume's education section is where you can show the academic achievements that make you a great accountant. Because accounting is typically not a self-taught profession, hiring teams expect you to bring some education and it's important to display it here. Accountants typically have an undergraduate degree in accounting, business, or finance, and may have an advanced degree on top of that.

Assuming you have a bachelor's or master's degree, there's no need to list your high school credentials. Do, however, include certifications or trainings related to accounting. Think about:

• Accounting certifications, particularly if you've earned designation as a Certified Public Accountant (CPA). Other certifications include Certified Management Accountant (CMA), Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA), and Chartered Institute Management Accountant (CIMA).
• Industry-specific certifications like Certified Bank Auditor (CBA), Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE), Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA), Certified Internal Auditor (CIA) and Enrolled Agent (EA).
• Professional development, including relevant training courses and memberships in accounting-related professional associations.
• Internships, especially if you're a recent graduate or new to the industry.

Accountants are among the professions prominent in companies like the Big Four. This means high salaries and high competition. To reach a good position and have a great career in such environments, certifications are important. Most top-level professionals in these corporations have CPAs. And if you do as well, make sure to highlight that in your application.

Certified Public Accountant, State of New York, New York City  2023 

Master of Business Administration and Accounting, St. Joseph's College, New York  July  2020

Bachelor of Finance, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia  May 2012 

Appropriate layout, design, and formatting are the foundation for attracting and focusing the recruiter’s attention on your accountant resume. Together, they create the first impression hiring managers will have.  

To convey character and a professional image on your accounting resume, a clean and classical look is your best choice. Accountants are often associated with discipline, dependability, and expertise, so let's visualize that in your resume template . 

Before choosing a template, reflect on what that resume format says about you as a candidate. For most formal accounting positions, you'll want to keep your template fairly simple . However for certain employers, a more creative or modern touch might be effective.

For more ideas, take a look at our field-tested resume templates , where the most tedious formatting and structure tasks are done for you. 

Accountant text-only resume example

Certified Public Accountant with five years of experience in account reconciliations, streamlining accounts, and financial planning. Highly motivated professional with a proven track record of delivering accurate reports and high-quality service. Possess a comprehensive understanding of all aspects of accounting and financial planning. A dedicated leader with the ability to lead effective teams in attaining profit improvement.

Employment history

Accountant job market and outlook

Accounting is a vitally important function that impacts businesses daily. Accountants have traditionally been viewed as keepers of financial records, caretakers of tax-related documents, and — essentially — "the numbers people."

But the core of most accounting roles is much deeper and wider in today’s increasingly dynamic and complex economy. Ask anyone running a business, working in a large corporation, or navigating government interactions how well they could manage without great accounting support. Chances are, they couldn't manage it well. 

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), a leading source of occupation-specific market data, combines accountants and auditors in the same information category. This work is carried out in the following forms of employment : accounting, tax preparation, bookkeeping, and payroll services; finance and insurance; government; management of companies and enterprises; and self-employed.

The accounting job outlook, which is generally tied closely to the health of the overall economy, is on a stable growth path. The BLS projects 4% increase in jobs for accountants and auditors from 2022-2032, about as fast as the average for all occupations. They anticipate an average of 126,500 accounting and auditing roles to be available per year. 

Accountants earn a higher-than-average income, much like other financial professionals. According to the BLS, the average annual salary for accountants and auditors in 2022 was $86,740. The median income was $78,000, with those in the 75th percentile earning over $100,000 and those in the 90th percentile earning over $130,000.

Looking for some resume inspiration? Check out some related resume examples from the financial industry:

• Finance-director resume example
• Senior-accountant resume example
• Bank-teller resume example
• Loan-officer resume example
• Loan-processor resume example
• Bookkeeper resume example
• Auditing-clerk resume example
• Banker resume example
• Compliance-officer resume example
• Investment-banker resume example
• Financial-analyst resume example
• Financial-advisor resume example

Key takeaways for building an accountant resume

Steady growth in the accountant job market means competition for the best jobs is likely to increase, so you need all the best tools to create an outstanding resume that gives you every advantage over other candidates. Now that you know how to write an excellent accountant resume comprising all the relevant sections, you can make your fit for the role clear to any recruiter or hiring manager. 

Using our online resume builder can make it even easier with a streamlined, organized process — and what accountantaccountant doesn't love that? 

Beautiful ready-to-use resume templates

Accountant Resume & Writing Guide

Welcome to our comprehensive guide on crafting a powerful accountant resume.

Whether you're an experienced professional looking to advance your career or a recent graduate entering the accounting field, a well-crafted resume is essential for showcasing your skills, qualifications, and accomplishments.

On this page, we provide expert resume examples, tips, sample resumes, and proven strategies to help you create a standout accountant resume that grabs the attention of hiring managers and lands you the job interviews you deserve.

What you can read in this article

Accountant Resume Samples

Or download these examples in PDF at the bottom of this page for free. (You can also click the button to use the resume builder for $2,95 )

Accounting Intern

Entry Level

Supportive role providing assistance with various accounting tasks and gaining practical experience in a professional accounting environment.

• Assisted with data entry tasks, including accounts payable and accounts receivable.
• Conducted bank and account reconciliations to ensure accurate financial records.
• Assisted in preparing financial reports and statements.
• Participated in team meetings and training sessions to enhance knowledge and skills.
• Supported the accounting team with administrative tasks, such as filing and organizing documents.

Years in: Job: 1 year (as an intern) Field: 1 years

Accounting Assistant

Junior Level

Supporting role responsible for performing accounting tasks and providing administrative support to the accounting department.

• Managed accounts payable and accounts receivable processes.
• Assisted in the preparation of financial statements and reports.
• Conducted bank reconciliations and resolved any discrepancies.
• Assisted with payroll processing and employee expense reimbursements.
• Provided general administrative support to the accounting team.

Years in: Job: 2 year Field: 3 years

Experienced

Experienced accountant with a strong track record in financial operations, analysis, and compliance. Skilled in preparing financial statements, conducting reconciliations, and providing valuable insights. Collaborative team player with a keen eye for detail and a focus on delivering accurate results to support business decision-making.

• Prepared accurate journal entries, performed account reconciliations, and ensured data integrity.
• Assisted in financial statement preparation, maintaining compliance with accounting standards.
• Conducted detailed financial analysis, including variance analysis and trend identification.
• Collaborated with cross-functional teams to streamline processes and improve efficiency.

Years in: Job: 4 year Field: 6 years

Staff Accountant

Medior Level

Responsible for various accounting duties, including financial analysis, reconciliations, and supporting month-end close processes.

• Prepared journal entries and performed account reconciliations.
• Conducted variance analysis and provided insights on financial performance.
• Assisted with budgeting and forecasting processes.
• Collaborated with cross-functional teams to gather financial data and support decision-making.

Senior Accountant

Download this resume in PDF

Responsible for overseeing accounting processes, managing financial operations, and providing guidance to junior accounting staff.

• Managed month-end and year-end closing processes.
• Prepared complex financial statements and reports.
• Conducted financial analysis and provided insights for decision-making.
• Assisted in budgeting and forecasting processes.
• Reviewed and approved journal entries and account reconciliations.
• Provided mentorship and guidance to junior accounting team members.

Years in: Job: 6 year Field: 10 years

Accounting Manager

Senior Level

Leadership role overseeing the accounting department, ensuring accurate financial reporting, and providing strategic guidance.

• Managed all accounting operations, including financial reporting and budgeting.
• Developed and implemented accounting policies and procedures.
• Oversaw month-end and year-end closing processes.
• Conducted financial analysis and provided recommendations to improve financial performance.
• Collaborated with executive management on strategic financial decisions.
• Led and supervised a team of accountants and finance professionals.

Years in: Job: 8 year Field: 15 years

Forensic Accountant

Specialized role involving the investigation and analysis of financial data for legal purposes, such as fraud investigations, litigation support, and dispute resolution.

• Conducted forensic audits to detect and investigate financial irregularities and fraudulent activities. (8 years in this job)
• Analyzed financial documents, including bank statements, invoices, and contracts, to uncover evidence of financial misconduct.
• Prepared detailed reports and documentation of findings to support legal proceedings.
• Provided expert testimony and collaborated with legal teams during litigation or arbitration processes.
• Assisted in the development of fraud prevention and detection measures for organizations.

Years in: Job: 8 year Field: 10 years

Financial Controller

Leadership role responsible for overseeing all aspects of financial management, including financial reporting, budgeting, and financial analysis.

• Managed the financial reporting process, ensuring accurate and timely preparation of financial statements. (6 years in this job)
• Developed and monitored key financial metrics and KPIs to assess the company's financial performance.
• Led the budgeting and forecasting processes, collaborating with department heads to align financial goals.
• Implemented internal controls and procedures to ensure compliance with accounting standards and regulations.
• Provided financial insights and recommendations to the executive team to support strategic decision-making.

Years in: Job: 6 year Field: 12 years

Tax Accountant

Intermediate

Specialized role focused on tax compliance, planning, and advisory services for individuals and businesses.

• Prepared and filed tax returns for individuals, partnerships, corporations, and trusts, ensuring compliance with tax laws and regulations. (3 years in this job)
• Conducted tax research to stay updated on changes in tax legislation and identify tax-saving opportunities.
• Assisted clients in tax planning strategies to minimize tax liabilities and maximize deductions.
• Represented clients during tax audits and communicated with tax authorities to resolve any issues.
• Provided guidance and advice on tax-related matters, including estate planning and international taxation.

Years in: Job: 3 year Field: 5 years

Audit Manager

Leadership role overseeing the audit process and ensuring compliance with accounting standards and regulations.

• ffective and efficient audits. (7 years in this job)
• Developed audit plans and procedures to assess the effectiveness of internal controls and identify areas of risk.
• Conducted complex financial audits, including reviewing financial statements and supporting documentation.
• Provided recommendations to improve internal controls and operational efficiency based on audit findings.
• Interacted with clients' management and executives to communicate audit results and provide insights for improvement.

Years in: Job: 7 year Field: 15 years

The Accountant Resume Guide

Key highlights for accountants.

As an accountant, it's crucial to emphasize certain aspects of your experience and skills to effectively showcase your suitability for prospective employers and recruiters. Here are the key highlights to include in your resume:

• Scope of Accounting Role : Highlight the scope of your accounting role, demonstrating your understanding of the organizational and management structure of businesses. If you've worked in a small business, emphasize your ability to handle complete financial jurisdiction, reporting directly to the business owner. Conversely, if you have experience in a Fortune 500 company, showcase your ability to work within a larger financial team responsible for specific divisions' financial record keeping.
• Technological Proficiency : Today's accountants need to be technologically adept, capable of utilizing various software tools and accounting packages. Include specific examples of software proficiency, such as MS Excel, Sage, SAP, QuickBooks, AccPac, and FreshBooks. Additionally, highlight your familiarity with customer relationship management (CRM) systems like Oracle, inventory management applications such as InventPro, warehousing and distribution tools like OrderHive, and even sales applications like Salesforce.
• Taxation Expertise (For Certified Public Accountants) : If you are a Certified Public Accountant (CPA), emphasize your proficiency in tax calculations, reporting, and federal tax return submissions. Discuss your experience in handling these functions either within the company or in collaboration with CPA firms, where you provided financial services to clients, including corporations, governments, and individuals.
• Risk Management and Financial Analysis : Illustrate your ability to contribute to risk management efforts by analyzing current costs, revenues, and financial commitments to predict future obligations and protect cash flow reserves. Highlight your experience in approving budgets and expenses, showcasing your capability to handle varying scales of financial responsibilities, ranging from thousands to hundreds of millions per month, based on the size and turnover of the organizations you've worked with.

By highlighting these key aspects of your experience and skills, you can effectively demonstrate your value as an accountant and increase your chances of securing desired opportunities in the competitive job market.

Resume Structure and Format

Choosing the right resume format:.

The first step in creating an effective accountant resume is choosing the appropriate resume format. There are three common formats to consider: chronological, functional, and combination.

• Chronological Format : This format emphasizes your work history and lists your experiences in reverse chronological order, starting with your most recent position. It is ideal for candidates with a solid work history and consistent career progression.
• Functional Format : The functional format focuses on your skills and abilities rather than your work history. It is suitable for individuals who are transitioning careers, have gaps in employment, or have diverse skill sets.
• Combination Format : As the name suggests, the combination format combines elements of both chronological and functional formats. It allows you to highlight both your work experience and relevant skills, making it suitable for accountants with a well-rounded background.

When choosing the right format, consider your unique circumstances, career goals, and the requirements of the job you are applying for.

The Career Summary

Hiring managers have large numbers of hundreds of resumes to screen and limited time to read them all in detail. Keep your career summary concise and to the point. Put the most relevant information first to capture their attention while they’re quickly scanning your resume.

Start your career summary with your years of experience in the industry and the main duties you performed. When deciding what duties to add, use the job description as your guide. For instance, if the job you are applying to highlights experience in intercompany reconciliations or investment analysis use those same words and phrases. The more your resume resonates with the job description of keywords, the better fit you will seem.

Next, add a line that showcases any outstanding qualities that will add value to the company. A hiring manager would be interested to know if you have “strong mathematical skills, meticulous financial recording capabilities, and excellent troubleshooting abilities.” It’s important to note that these qualities should be proven with examples in the professional experience section to re-enforce your message. Finally, end your objective with your educational degrees/diplomas and any certified courses or professional memberships you may have that are pertinent to the job.

Accountant Summary Example 1 “ Experienced Certified Public Accountant with 7+ years of experience in financial reporting, reconciliations and P&L statements. Holds an MBA plus a Business Valuations Certificate. Proven track record in financial system overhaul resulting in improvements of up to 30% in terms of processing speed and accuracy. “

Accountant Summary Example 2 “ Dependable and meticulous accounting with experience in corporate and intercompany accounting functions. Strong competencies in strategic revenue planning and budgetary targets for all company facilities and affiliates. Holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting Sciences and a GRP (Global Risk Professional) qualification. “

Work Experience

The work experience section is a crucial component of your accountant resume. It provides evidence of your skills, knowledge, and achievements in previous roles. When listing your work experience, include the following details for each position:

• Job title : Clearly state your job title, highlighting your level of responsibility and expertise.
• Company name : Provide the name of the company or organization you worked for.
• Dates of employment : Include the start and end dates of your employment.
• Location : Specify the location of the company.
• Job responsibilities : Detail your key responsibilities and duties in bullet point format. Focus on your accomplishments and quantify them with specific examples, such as cost savings, revenue growth, or process improvements. Use action verbs to make your statements more impactful.

Senior Accountant, XYZ Company  | City, State (January 2018 – Present) 

• Managed financial operations for a portfolio of clients, overseeing month-end close processes, financial statement preparation, and general ledger reconciliations.
• Implemented cost-saving measures resulting in a 20% reduction in annual expenses.
• Developed and implemented standardized accounting procedures, resulting in improved accuracy and efficiency.
• Led a team of three junior accountants, providing guidance and training on financial reporting and analysis.
• Collaborated with cross-functional teams to streamline budgeting and forecasting processes, resulting in more accurate projections.

Job Descriptions & Responsibilities

An employer would expect to see the following proven foundational duties and skill sets within an applicant’s resume, depending on educational level and career stage.

An Accountant I at an entry-career stage (3-5 years experience) may:

• Assist with monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements, general ledger, balance sheet reconciliations, journal entries, fixed assets, and P&L reporting
• Calculate variances between actual results and budget forecasts.
• Reconciliations of main bank account and international subsidiary accounts
• Prepare documents for annual tax returns
• Work with external auditors during the audit review and compile all the necessary documentation required during the investigation
• Responsible for accounts payable and accounts receivable statements

An Accountant II at the mid-career stage (5-8 years experience) may

• Prepare journal entries, reconciliations, and trend analyzes during month end
• Manage revenue, accounts payable, accounts receivable and expense accrual accounts
• Liaise with operations, production, and marketing department to validate the correctness of financial information and review financial data reports
• Assist with migration of the balance sheet from Oracle to SAP
• Responsible for cash disbursement
• Engage with the internal audit team to complete documentation for SOX and Basel II

An Accountant III at an experienced/advanced stage (8-15 years experience) may:

• Oversee all financial reporting and accounting functions.
• Manage a team of 4 accounting clerks during the reconciliation of bank accounts, analysis of periodic financials, and preparation of budgets.
• Compile financial statements and submit to Financial Director
• Reconcile T&E, Amex, Petty Cash, and Prepaid accounts
• Verify all payments against invoices and accounts receivable reports
• Update budgetary schedules and expense reports every 30 days
• Responsible for the payroll function of 1500 employees

Education and Certifications:

In this section, include your educational background and any relevant certifications you have obtained. Include the following information:

• Degree : Specify the degree(s) you have earned, such as Bachelor of Science in Accounting.
• Institution : Mention the name of the university or educational institution where you completed your studies.
• Graduation Date : Include the month and year of your graduation.

If you have earned any certifications, such as Certified Public Accountant (CPA), Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA), Certified Management Accountant (CMA), or Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA), list them along with the issuing authority and the year of certification.

Bachelor of Science in Accounting XYZ University Graduated: May 2017

Certified Public Accountant (CPA) State Board of Accountancy Certification Date: July 2018

Examples for more than five years’ experience:

2016 – Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA), Association for Investment Management & Research (AIMR), Tampa, FL

2015 – Masters in Business Administration, Boston University, Boston, MA

If you have less than five years’ experience, you may also add your majors, minors, GPA scores and accolades, and honors awards:

2019 – Current Certified Chartered Accountant, Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA), Online 2016 – 2018 Associate’s Degree in Applied Accounting Science, University of Detroit, MA GPA: 3.8 Majors: Financial Management, Accounting Minors: Information Science, Accounting, Economics Accolades: Deans Honors List

2013 – Certificate in Accounting Fundamentals, Merrick Business School, Baltimore, MD

Skills Section

Accountants require a diverse set of skills to excel in their roles. In the skills section of your resume, highlight the technical and soft skills that are relevant to the accounting profession. Some essential skills to include are:

• Financial analysis and reporting
• Budgeting and forecasting
• Auditing and compliance
• Tax preparation and planning
• Proficiency in accounting software (e.g., QuickBooks, SAP, Excel)
• Attention to detail and accuracy
• Analytical and problem-solving abilities
• Communication and interpersonal skills
• Time management and organizational skills

Use bullet points to list your skills, making it easy for recruiters to scan and identify your key strengths.

Soft Skill Examples

Qualifications & Certifications associated with Accountants

Action Verbs for your Accountant Resume

Tailoring Your Resume

Analyzing job descriptions:.

To make your resume stand out, carefully analyze job descriptions and identify the key skills and qualifications employers are seeking. Tailor your resume to match these requirements, highlighting the skills and experiences that align with the job posting.

Customizing for Each Application:

While it may be tempting to use a generic resume for multiple job applications, customizing your resume for each position is essential. Adjust your professional summary, skills section, and work experience to align with the specific job requirements, using keywords and phrases from the job description. This customization shows employers that you have taken the time to understand their needs and increases your chances of getting noticed.

Formatting and Design

Readability and organization.

A well-structured and organized resume is essential for readability. Use clear headings, bullet points, and subheadings to create sections that are easy to navigate. Maintain consistent formatting throughout your resume to ensure a professional and polished appearance.

Font and Font Size

Choose a clean and professional font that is easy to read, such as Arial, Calibri, or Times New Roman. Keep the font size between 10 and 12 points for the body text, ensuring readability while conserving space.

Length and Page Margins

Ideally, keep your accountant resume to one or two pages in length. Be concise and focus on the most relevant information. Use appropriate margins (typically 1 inch) to maintain a balanced layout and maximize the use of space.

Proofreading and Finalizing

Grammar and spelling.

Before submitting your resume, thoroughly proofread it for grammar and spelling errors. Use spell-check tools, but also carefully review your content to ensure accuracy. Grammatical mistakes can create a negative impression, so take the time to edit and refine your resume.

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13 Accountant Resume Examples for Your 2024 Job Search

Accountants are experts at managing financial data and ensuring accuracy. As an accountant, your resume is just like a financial statement. It should be organized, accurate, and provide a clear picture of your qualifications and experience. In this guide, we'll review X accountant resume examples to help you create a resume that will get you hired.

Resume Examples

Resume guidance.

• High Level Resume Tips
• Must-Have Information
• Why Resume Headlines & Titles are Important
• Writing an Exceptional Resume Summary
• How to Impress with Your Work Experience
• Top Skills & Keywords
• Go Above & Beyond with a Cover Letter
• Resume FAQs
• Related Resumes

Common Responsibilities Listed on Accountant Resumes:

• Prepare financial statements and reports, including income statements, balance sheets, and statements of cash flows
• Analyze financial information to recommend or develop efficient use of resources and procedures
• Compile and analyze financial information to prepare entries to accounts, such as general ledger accounts, and document business transactions
• Establish, maintain, and coordinate the implementation of accounting and accounting control procedures
• Analyze and review budgets and expenditures for local, state, federal, and private funding sources
• Monitor and review accounting and related system reports for accuracy and completeness
• Prepare and review budget, revenue, expense, payroll entries, invoices, and other accounting documents
• Reconcile and maintain balance sheet accounts
• Research and resolve billing and invoice discrepancies
• Prepare and review tax returns and research tax issues for individuals and businesses

You can use the examples above as a starting point to help you brainstorm tasks, accomplishments for your work experience section.

Accountant Resume Example:

• Developed and implemented a new accounting control procedure, resulting in a 25% reduction in errors and a 15% increase in efficiency.
• Analyzed and reviewed budgets and expenditures for a federal funding source, identifying cost savings opportunities and successfully negotiating a 10% reduction in expenses.
• Prepared and reviewed tax returns for a portfolio of 50 clients, resulting in a 95% accuracy rate and a 20% increase in client satisfaction.
• Managed the preparation of financial statements and reports for a publicly traded company, ensuring compliance with GAAP and SEC regulations and achieving a 100% accuracy rate.
• Collaborated with cross-functional teams to develop and implement a new expense tracking system, resulting in a 30% reduction in processing time and a 20% increase in data accuracy.
• Provided financial analysis and recommendations to senior leadership, resulting in a successful merger with a competitor and a 10% increase in market share.
• Implemented a new accounts payable system, reducing processing time by 50% and improving vendor relationships by 25%.
• Developed and maintained a budget for a non-profit organization, resulting in a 15% increase in funding and a 10% increase in program offerings.
• Managed the reconciliation of balance sheet accounts for a portfolio of 100 clients, resulting in a 98% accuracy rate and a 20% increase in client retention.
• Customer retention strategies
• Contract negotiation
• Data analysis and trend identification
• Account portfolio management
• Presentation development and delivery
• Cross-functional team collaboration
• CRM system implementation
• Sales strategy development and execution
• Team management and leadership
• Billing system implementation
• Relationship building
• Time management
• Problem-solving
• Communication and interpersonal skills
• Adaptability and flexibility

Entry Level Accountant Resume Example:

• Developed and implemented a new internal control system, resulting in a 25% reduction in errors and a 15% increase in efficiency.
• Assisted with the preparation of tax filings and returns, ensuring compliance with all regulations and saving the company $10,000 in penalties.
• Reviewed and analyzed budget variances, identifying areas for cost savings and recommending changes that resulted in a 10% reduction in expenses.
• Reconciled and maintained balance sheet accounts, ensuring accuracy and completeness of financial data and reducing errors by 20%.
• Assisted with month-end and year-end close process, completing all tasks ahead of schedule and improving overall efficiency by 15%.
• Prepared and reviewed financial statements and reports, providing valuable insights to management and contributing to a 5% increase in revenue.
• Analyzed and reviewed accounting and related system reports for accuracy and completeness, identifying discrepancies and implementing solutions that improved accuracy by 30%.
• Assisted with audits, ensuring compliance with all regulations and reducing audit findings by 50%.
• Developed and maintained internal control and procedures, improving overall efficiency and reducing errors by 20%.
• Financial analysis
• Internal controls
• Tax preparation and compliance
• Budgeting and forecasting
• Balance sheet reconciliation
• Month-end and year-end close process
• Financial reporting
• Audit assistance
• Accounting software proficiency
• Attention to detail
• Communication
• Adaptability

Staff Accountant Resume Example:

• Developed and implemented new financial controls and procedures, resulting in a 25% reduction in errors and a 15% increase in efficiency.
• Analyzed and presented financial data to senior management, leading to a 10% reduction in expenses and a 5% increase in revenue.
• Managed the month-end close process, ensuring timely and accurate financial reporting and reducing the close time by 20%.
• Managed the preparation and filing of all sales and payroll taxes, resulting in a 100% compliance rate and avoiding any penalties or fines.
• Developed and maintained relationships with vendors and suppliers, negotiating favorable payment terms and reducing accounts payable by 15%.
• Provided support for external audits, resulting in a clean audit report and no material weaknesses identified.
• Implemented a new budgeting and forecasting process, resulting in a 10% increase in accuracy and a 5% reduction in variances.
• Managed the reconciliation of all financial accounts, identifying and resolving discrepancies in a timely manner and reducing errors by 20%.
• Developed and presented financial reports to department heads, providing insights and recommendations for improving financial performance and achieving KPIs.
• Month-end close process
• Tax preparation and filing
• Accounts reconciliation
• Financial controls and procedures
• Vendor and supplier relationship management
• External audit support
• Data presentation and communication
• Process improvement
• Accounts payable management
• Compliance and regulatory knowledge
• Time management and efficiency
• Attention to detail and accuracy

Cost Accountant Resume Example:

• Developed and implemented a new cost accounting system, resulting in a 20% reduction in errors and a 15% increase in efficiency.
• Analyzed and reported on cost trends, identifying areas for cost savings and reducing overall expenses by 10%.
• Prepared and analyzed variance reports, providing insights to management that led to a 5% increase in profit margins.
• Managed the development and maintenance of standard costs, resulting in a 15% reduction in production costs and a 10% increase in profitability.
• Assisted in the preparation of the annual budget, providing accurate cost estimates that helped the company achieve a 95% budget accuracy rate.
• Monitored and analyzed labor costs and productivity, implementing process improvements that led to a 20% increase in productivity and a 5% reduction in labor costs.
• Analyzed and reported on the cost of goods sold and other expenses, identifying areas for cost savings and reducing overall expenses by 10%.
• Prepared and analyzed cost estimates for new products and services, providing accurate cost estimates that helped the company achieve a 95% budget accuracy rate.
• Monitored and analyzed actual costs against budgeted costs, providing insights to management that led to a 5% increase in profit margins.
• Cost accounting systems
• Variance analysis
• Standard costing
• Budget preparation
• Labor cost management
• Productivity analysis
• Cost of goods sold (COGS) analysis
• Cost estimation
• Actual vs. budgeted cost analysis
• Microsoft Excel
• ERP systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle)
• Communication skills
• Critical thinking

Junior Accountant Resume Example:

• Implemented new financial reporting procedures that reduced the time required to prepare monthly financial statements by 20%.
• Developed and maintained a system for tracking and analyzing accounts receivable, resulting in a 15% reduction in outstanding balances.
• Assisted with the preparation of tax returns, ensuring compliance with all relevant regulations and minimizing the risk of penalties.
• Collaborated with cross-functional teams to develop and implement a new budgeting process, resulting in a 10% reduction in expenses and improved financial forecasting accuracy.
• Managed the accounts payable process, ensuring timely and accurate payments to vendors and reducing the number of payment errors by 25%.
• Prepared and reviewed payroll, ensuring compliance with all relevant regulations and minimizing the risk of errors.
• Developed and implemented new internal controls, reducing the risk of fraud and errors in financial reporting by 30%.
• Analyzed financial data to identify trends and opportunities for cost savings, resulting in a 5% reduction in expenses.
• Assisted with the preparation for an external audit, ensuring compliance with all relevant regulations and minimizing the risk of penalties.
• Accounts receivable management
• Payroll processing and compliance
• Internal controls implementation
• Financial data analysis
• External audit preparation
• Cross-functional collaboration
• Proficiency in accounting software

Payroll Accountant Resume Example:

• Implemented a new payroll software system that reduced processing time by 50% and improved accuracy by 25%, resulting in increased employee satisfaction and reduced payroll errors.
• Collaborated with HR to develop and implement a new onboarding process for new employees, resulting in a 30% reduction in onboarding time and improved accuracy of employee data.
• Developed and implemented a new payroll audit process, resulting in a 40% reduction in payroll discrepancies and improved compliance with federal and state regulations.
• Managed the preparation and submission of all payroll tax returns, resulting in a 100% compliance rate with federal, state, and local tax laws.
• Developed and implemented a new payroll budgeting process, resulting in a 20% reduction in payroll expenses and improved accuracy in forecasting payroll costs.
• Streamlined the payroll reconciliation process, reducing the time required by 50% and improving accuracy by 30%.
• Developed and implemented a new payroll policy and procedure manual, resulting in improved consistency and accuracy in payroll processing across the organization.
• Managed the preparation and distribution of all payroll reports, resulting in improved transparency and communication with employees and management.
• Researched and resolved complex payroll discrepancies, resulting in a 95% reduction in payroll errors and improved accuracy in employee pay.
• Payroll software proficiency
• Payroll processing and auditing
• Tax compliance and reporting
• Reconciliation and discrepancy resolution
• Policy and procedure development
• Onboarding and employee data management
• Collaboration and communication
• Problem-solving and critical thinking
• Knowledge of federal, state, and local payroll regulations

General Ledger Accountant Resume Example:

• Implemented a new budget tracking system, resulting in a 25% reduction in budget variances and improved accuracy in financial reporting.
• Developed and implemented new accounting policies and procedures, resulting in a 15% increase in compliance with GAAP and other accounting regulations.
• Analyzed and reconciled complex general ledger accounts, identifying and resolving discrepancies that resulted in a 10% reduction in errors.
• Managed the month-end close process for multiple entities, resulting in a 20% reduction in close time and improved accuracy in financial reporting.
• Developed and implemented a new chart of accounts structure, resulting in a 30% increase in efficiency and accuracy in financial reporting.
• Assisted with the successful completion of multiple internal and external audits, resulting in zero findings and improved audit scores.
• Prepared and analyzed financial reports for multiple entities, resulting in a 15% increase in accuracy and improved decision-making for senior management.
• Lead the implementation of a new accounting software system, resulting in a 20% increase in efficiency and accuracy in financial reporting.
• Developed and implemented a new account reconciliation process, resulting in a 25% reduction in errors and improved accuracy in financial reporting.
• General ledger management
• GAAP compliance
• Account reconciliation
• Internal and external auditing
• Chart of accounts development
• Multi-entity accounting
• Team collaboration

Accountant Assistant Resume Example:

• Managed accounts payable and accounts receivable, reducing payment processing time by 20% and improving accuracy by 15%.
• Prepared and filed tax returns, resulting in a 100% compliance rate and saving the company $10,000 in penalties.
• Assisted with audits, ensuring all financial records were accurate and up-to-date, resulting in a successful audit with no findings.
• Prepared and processed payroll for 100+ employees, reducing errors by 25% and improving timeliness by 20%.
• Assisted with budget preparation and analysis, identifying cost-saving opportunities that resulted in a 10% reduction in expenses.
• Monitored and reconciled inventory, reducing discrepancies by 15% and improving accuracy in financial reporting.
• Reconciled bank accounts and credit card statements, identifying and resolving discrepancies that resulted in a 95% accuracy rate.
• Prepared financial statements and reports, providing key insights to management that led to a 5% increase in revenue.
• Assisted with financial forecasting and planning, contributing to the development of a successful growth strategy that resulted in a 10% increase in profits.
• Accounts Payable Management
• Accounts Receivable Management
• Tax Preparation and Filing
• Audit Assistance
• Payroll Processing
• Budget Preparation and Analysis
• Inventory Reconciliation
• Bank Account Reconciliation
• Financial Statement Preparation
• Financial Forecasting and Planning
• Credit Card Statement Reconciliation
• Cost-saving Analysis
• Financial Reporting
• Revenue Growth Strategies
• Proficiency in Accounting Software (e.g., QuickBooks, Excel)
• Attention to Detail
• Time Management
• Strong Communication Skills
• Teamwork and Collaboration

Senior Accountant Resume Example:

• Developed and implemented a new financial reporting system, resulting in a 25% reduction in reporting errors and a 15% increase in efficiency.
• Analyzed and identified cost-saving opportunities, resulting in a 10% reduction in expenses and a $500,000 increase in annual revenue.
• Managed the preparation and submission of tax returns, resulting in a 100% compliance rate and a $50,000 reduction in tax liability.
• Lead the implementation of a new accounting software, resulting in a 20% increase in productivity and a 10% reduction in errors.
• Developed and implemented internal control policies and procedures, resulting in a 30% reduction in fraud and a 15% increase in accuracy.
• Managed the preparation and submission of financial statements, resulting in a 100% compliance rate and a 5% increase in investor confidence.
• Analyzed and identified opportunities for process improvement, resulting in a 20% reduction in the time required to close the books each month.
• Developed and implemented a new budgeting process, resulting in a 10% reduction in expenses and a 5% increase in revenue.
• Managed the preparation and submission of external audit materials, resulting in a 100% compliance rate and a 15% reduction in audit time.
• Financial reporting and analysis
• Cost-saving identification and implementation
• Accounting software implementation and management
• Internal control policies and procedures
• Financial statement preparation and submission
• Process improvement and optimization
• External audit preparation and compliance
• Team leadership and collaboration
• Strong communication and presentation skills
• Advanced Excel and data manipulation skills
• Knowledge of GAAP and IFRS accounting standards

Public Accountant Resume Example:

• Developed and implemented new accounting policies and procedures, resulting in a 20% reduction in errors and a 15% increase in efficiency.
• Conducted audits of financial statements and internal controls, identifying and mitigating financial risks and saving the company $500,000 in potential losses.
• Analyzed financial data and made recommendations to management, resulting in a 10% increase in revenue and a 5% decrease in expenses.
• Prepared and reviewed tax returns for individuals and businesses, ensuring compliance with applicable laws and regulations and saving clients an average of $10,000 in taxes.
• Assisted with mergers and acquisitions, conducting due diligence and providing financial analysis, resulting in successful acquisitions and integrations.
• Developed and maintained internal control systems, improving accuracy and reliability of financial data and reducing audit findings by 25%.
• Prepared financial statements, such as balance sheets, income statements, and cash flow statements, accurately and timely, resulting in improved financial reporting and decision-making.
• Assisted with budgeting and forecasting, providing financial analysis and recommendations to management, resulting in a 10% increase in revenue and a 5% decrease in expenses.
• Prepared reports for internal and external stakeholders, including investors and regulatory agencies, ensuring compliance and transparency and improving stakeholder relations.
• Internal controls and auditing
• Financial statement preparation
• Mergers and acquisitions
• Accounting policies and procedures
• Regulatory compliance
• Risk management
• Data analysis
• Financial modeling
• Cash flow management
• Stakeholder communication
• Software proficiency (e.g., QuickBooks, Excel, ERP systems)

Chartered Accountant Resume Example:

• Developed and implemented a new financial reporting system, resulting in a 25% reduction in reporting time and a 15% increase in accuracy.
• Provided strategic financial advice to clients, resulting in a 10% increase in revenue and a 5% decrease in expenses.
• Conducted a comprehensive audit of a client's financial records, identifying and resolving discrepancies that resulted in a savings of $100,000.
• Managed a team of accountants to prepare and file tax returns for a portfolio of clients, resulting in a 95% on-time filing rate and a 10% increase in client satisfaction.
• Developed and implemented a new budgeting process for a client, resulting in a 20% reduction in expenses and a 5% increase in revenue.
• Provided financial analysis and recommendations to a client, resulting in a successful merger and a 30% increase in market share.
• Developed and implemented internal controls and accounting policies for a client, resulting in a 20% reduction in financial errors and a 10% increase in efficiency.
• Conducted a financial analysis of a client's operations, identifying areas for improvement that resulted in a 15% increase in revenue and a 5% decrease in expenses.
• Prepared financial statements and reports for regulatory bodies, resulting in a 100% compliance rate and a 10% increase in stakeholder confidence.
• Strategic financial planning and advice
• Auditing and compliance
• Financial management and control
• Regulatory reporting
• Internal controls and accounting policies
• Client relationship management
• Risk assessment and mitigation
• Cost reduction and revenue optimization
• Financial software proficiency (e.g., QuickBooks, SAP, Oracle)
• Excellent communication and presentation skills
• Analytical and problem-solving abilities
• Time management and organization
• Adaptability and continuous learning

Property Accountant Resume Example:

• Developed and implemented a new rent roll system, resulting in a 20% reduction in errors and a 15% increase in efficiency.
• Managed the preparation and review of monthly financial statements for a portfolio of 10 properties, ensuring accuracy and completeness of all financial data.
• Implemented new processes for CAM reconciliations, resulting in a 25% reduction in discrepancies and a 10% increase in cost savings.
• Managed the successful completion of a property tax appeal, resulting in a 15% reduction in property tax expenses for the company.
• Developed and implemented a new budgeting process, resulting in a 10% reduction in budget variances and a 5% increase in cost savings.
• Streamlined the monthly mortgage payment process, resulting in a 20% reduction in processing time and a 10% increase in efficiency.
• Developed and implemented a new system for monitoring and reconciling tenant accounts, resulting in a 30% reduction in errors and a 20% increase in efficiency.
• Managed the preparation and review of monthly accruals for a portfolio of 15 properties, ensuring accuracy and completeness of all financial data.
• Implemented new processes for insurance reconciliations, resulting in a 25% reduction in discrepancies and a 10% increase in cost savings.
• Financial analysis and reporting
• Rent roll management
• CAM reconciliations
• Property tax appeals
• Mortgage payment processing
• Tenant account monitoring and reconciliation
• Accruals management
• Insurance reconciliations
• Process improvement and implementation
• Strong communication skills
• Advanced Excel proficiency
• Knowledge of property management software (e.g., Yardi, MRI, or AppFolio)

Fund Accountant Resume Example:

• Implemented new reconciliation processes, resulting in a 30% reduction in errors and a 25% increase in efficiency.
• Developed and implemented a new investor reporting system, resulting in a 40% reduction in report preparation time and a 20% increase in accuracy.
• Collaborated with the investment team to implement new investment strategies, resulting in a 15% increase in fund performance.
• Managed the successful completion of a complex regulatory filing, resulting in a 100% compliance rate and a 15% reduction in audit findings.
• Developed and implemented new expense monitoring processes, resulting in a 20% reduction in expenses and a 10% increase in profitability.
• Collaborated with the operations team to streamline trade settlement processes, resulting in a 30% reduction in settlement time and a 20% increase in efficiency.
• Developed and implemented new NAV calculation processes, resulting in a 25% reduction in calculation time and a 15% increase in accuracy.
• Collaborated with the finance team to implement new financial reporting processes, resulting in a 20% reduction in report preparation time and a 10% increase in accuracy.
• Managed the successful completion of a fund migration project, resulting in a 100% completion rate and a 20% reduction in operational costs.
• NAV calculation
• Reconciliation processes
• Expense monitoring and reduction
• Trade settlement processes
• Fund migration and operational efficiency
• Investment strategy implementation
• Investor reporting
• Collaboration and teamwork
• Project management
• Adaptability to industry changes

High Level Resume Tips for Accountants:

When creating a resume as an Accountant, it is important to keep in mind that potential employers are looking for someone with the right skills and experience to fill the role. To make sure your resume stands out, here are some high-level tips to keep in mind: 1. Highlight Your Accounting Experience: Make sure to include any relevant accounting experience you have, such as internships, certifications, or any other relevant experience. 2. Showcase Your Technical Skills: Accountants need to be proficient in a variety of software programs, so make sure to include any technical skills you have. 3. Demonstrate Your Problem-Solving Skills: Employers want to know that you can think critically and solve problems. Include any examples of problem-solving skills you have, such as how you solved a difficult accounting problem or how you identified a potential issue and took steps to address it. 4. Showcase Your Communication Skills: Accountants need to be able to communicate effectively with clients, so make sure to include any examples of communication skills you have, such as how you successfully communicated with a client or how you effectively presented a financial report. 5. Demonstrate Your Leadership Skills: Employers want to know that you can take initiative and lead a team. Include any examples of leadership skills you have, such as how you successfully managed a team or how you effectively delegated tasks. By following these high-level tips, Accountants can ensure that their resume stands out and that they are presenting themselves in the best light possible.

Must-Have Information for a Accountant Resume:

Here are the essential sections that should exist in an accountant 8resume:

• Contact Information
• Resume Headline
• Resume Summary or Objective
• Work Experience & Achievements
• Skills & Competencies

Additionally, if you're eager to make an impression and gain an edge over other accountant candidates, you may want to consider adding in these sections:

• Certifications/Training

Let's start with resume headlines.

Why Resume Headlines & Titles are Important for Accountants:

Accountant resume headline examples:, strong headlines.

• Experienced Accountant with a track record of improving financial processes and increasing profitability for Fortune 500 companies
• Detail-oriented CPA with expertise in tax planning and compliance for small businesses and individuals
• Strategic Financial Analyst with a background in financial modeling and forecasting for multinational corporations

Why these are strong:

• These resume headlines are impactful for Accountants as they showcase key strengths and accomplishments that are relevant to their roles. The first headline emphasizes the candidate's experience in improving financial processes and increasing profitability for large companies, which is a crucial factor that hiring managers look for in Accountants. The second headline highlights the candidate's expertise in tax planning and compliance, which is a highly sought-after skill in the industry. Finally, the third headline showcases the candidate's strategic mindset, financial modeling skills, and experience working with multinational corporations, which are all valuable assets for Accountants in today's job market.

Weak Headlines

• Experienced Accountant
• Professional Accountant

Why these are weak:

• These headlines are too generic and lack specificity. They do not provide any insight into the Accountant's experience or qualifications, and do not make the resume stand out.

Writing an Exceptional Accountant Resume Summary:

Accountant resume summary examples:, strong summaries.

• Detail-oriented Accountant with 5 years of experience in financial reporting and analysis, skilled in identifying and resolving discrepancies in financial statements. Proficient in GAAP and IFRS, with a proven track record of streamlining accounting processes and reducing month-end close time by 30%.
• Experienced Tax Accountant with 7 years of experience in tax planning and compliance for individuals and businesses. Expertise in federal, state, and local tax laws, with a strong focus on minimizing tax liabilities and maximizing deductions. Successfully managed a portfolio of 50+ clients, resulting in a 25% increase in revenue.
• Strategic Financial Analyst with 4 years of experience in budgeting, forecasting, and financial modeling. Skilled in identifying trends and providing actionable insights to senior management, resulting in a 15% increase in revenue and a 10% reduction in expenses. Proficient in Excel and SQL, with a strong ability to communicate complex financial information to non-financial stakeholders.
• These resume summaries are strong for Accountants as they highlight the candidates' key skills, accomplishments, and industry-specific experience. The first summary emphasizes the candidate's attention to detail and their ability to streamline accounting processes, making them highly appealing to potential employers. The second summary showcases the candidate's expertise in tax planning and compliance, as well as their success in managing a portfolio of clients. Lastly, the third summary demonstrates the candidate's strategic thinking and their ability to provide valuable insights to senior management, making them a valuable asset to any organization.

Weak Summaries

• Experienced Accountant seeking a challenging role in a reputable organization where I can utilize my skills and knowledge to contribute to the company's financial success.
• Detail-oriented Accountant with expertise in financial analysis and reporting, seeking a position that allows me to apply my skills and experience to support business growth.
• Highly motivated Accountant with a strong background in tax preparation and compliance, seeking a role that allows me to utilize my skills to help clients achieve their financial goals.
• These resume summaries need improvement for Accountants as they are too generic and lack specific examples of the candidate's achievements or areas of expertise. The summaries do not effectively showcase the candidate's unique value or accomplishments, and do not provide any quantifiable results or details on the candidate's successes in implementing their skills and knowledge.

Resume Objective Examples for Accountants:

Strong objectives.

• Detail-oriented and highly motivated Accounting graduate seeking an entry-level position to utilize my strong analytical skills and knowledge of accounting principles to contribute to the success of a growth-oriented company.
• Recent CPA candidate with experience in financial analysis and reporting, seeking an Accounting position to apply my knowledge of GAAP and tax regulations to ensure accurate financial reporting and compliance.
• Goal-driven and organized Accounting professional with experience in accounts payable and receivable, seeking an Accounting position to leverage my skills in financial management, budgeting, and forecasting to contribute to the growth of a forward-thinking organization.
• These resume objectives are strong for up and coming Accountants because they showcase the candidates' passion, education, and relevant skills, while also highlighting their eagerness to learn and contribute to the success of the organization. The first objective emphasizes the candidate's motivation and analytical skills, which are important attributes for an Accountant. The second objective showcases the candidate's educational background and knowledge of accounting principles, demonstrating a strong foundation for success in the role. Lastly, the third objective highlights the candidate's experience in financial management and forecasting, making them a promising fit for an Accounting position where they can further develop their skills and contribute to the company's growth.

Weak Objectives

• Seeking an entry-level Accountant position where I can utilize my skills and gain experience in the field.
• Aspiring Accountant with a degree in Accounting, seeking a position to kickstart my career in the industry.
• Recent graduate with a background in Finance, looking for an Accountant role to learn more about the field and develop my skills.
• These resume objectives need improvement for up and coming Accountants because they lack specificity and don't effectively showcase the unique value or skills the candidates possess. The first objective is generic and doesn't provide any information about the candidate's background, passion, or relevant experience. The second objective mentions a degree in Accounting, but it doesn't mention any specific achievements, certifications, or industries the candidate is interested in. The third objective, although it mentions a background in Finance, doesn't elaborate on the candidate's expertise, skills, or any particular area of accounting they are passionate about, which would make their profile more appealing to potential employers.

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Speed up your resume creation process with the resume builder . generate tailored resume summaries in seconds., how to impress with your accountant work experience:, best practices for your work experience section:.

• Use specific accounting software and tools that you have experience with, such as QuickBooks, Excel, or SAP.
• Highlight your experience in managing financial statements, including balance sheets, income statements, and cash flow statements.
• Showcase your experience in managing accounts payable and accounts receivable, including your ability to manage vendor relationships and negotiate payment terms.
• Demonstrate your experience in managing payroll and employee benefits, including your knowledge of tax laws and regulations.
• Highlight your experience in managing audits and compliance, including your ability to prepare for and respond to audits from regulatory bodies.
• Showcase your experience in managing budgets and forecasting, including your ability to analyze financial data and make strategic recommendations.
• Mention any certifications or licenses you hold, such as CPA or CMA.
• Lastly, ensure that the language you use is clear and concise, avoiding industry jargon and acronyms that may not be familiar to HR, recruiters, and hiring managers.

Example Work Experiences for Accountants:

Strong experiences.

• Conducted financial analysis and created detailed reports for a Fortune 500 company, resulting in a 10% increase in revenue and a 5% reduction in expenses.
• Developed and implemented new accounting procedures, resulting in a 20% increase in efficiency and accuracy of financial reporting.
• Led a team of 5 accountants in the preparation and submission of quarterly and annual financial statements, ensuring compliance with GAAP and SEC regulations.
• These work experiences are strong because they demonstrate the candidate's ability to deliver quantifiable results, implement process improvements, and lead a team effectively. The use of specific metrics and action-oriented language highlights the candidate's expertise in financial analysis, accounting procedures, and regulatory compliance. These experiences are highly relevant to the role of an Accountant and showcase the candidate's value as a competent and skilled professional.

Weak Experiences

Prepared financial statements and reports for clients, ensuring accuracy and compliance with accounting standards.

Assisted in the preparation of tax returns and audits, reviewing documents and identifying potential issues.

Conducted research on accounting regulations and industry trends, presenting findings to senior staff.

Managed accounts payable and receivable processes, reconciling accounts and resolving discrepancies.

Prepared and analyzed financial data, identifying trends and making recommendations for improvement.

Collaborated with cross-functional teams to streamline financial processes and improve efficiency.

• These work experiences are weak because they lack specificity and quantifiable results. They provide generic descriptions of tasks performed without showcasing the impact of the individual's work or the benefits brought to the company. To improve these bullet points, the candidate should focus on incorporating metrics to highlight their achievements and providing clear context that demonstrates their leadership qualities and direct contributions to successful outcomes.

Top Skills & Keywords for Accountant Resumes:

Top hard & soft skills for accountants, hard skills.

• Tax Planning and Compliance
• Budgeting and Forecasting
• Cost Accounting
• Auditing and Assurance
• Financial Analysis
• Risk Management
• GAAP and IFRS Knowledge
• Accounting Software Proficiency (e.g. QuickBooks, Xero)
• Payroll Processing and Reporting

Soft Skills

• Analytical Thinking
• Time Management and Prioritization
• Communication and Interpersonal Skills
• Adaptability and Flexibility
• Problem Solving and Critical Thinking
• Ethics and Integrity
• Organizational Skills
• Leadership and Management Skills
• Technical Proficiency
• Customer Service Orientation

Go Above & Beyond with a Accountant Cover Letter

Accountant cover letter example: (based on resume).

[Your Name] [Your Address] [City, State ZIP Code] [Email Address] [Today’s Date]

[Company Name] [Address] [City, State ZIP Code]

Dear Hiring Manager,

I am writing to express my interest in the Accountant position at [Company Name]. With over [Number of Years] years of experience in accounting and finance, I am confident that my skills and expertise align with the requirements of this role.

In my current role as an Accountant at [Current Company], I have developed and implemented new accounting control procedures that resulted in a 25% reduction in errors and a 15% increase in efficiency. I have also analyzed and reviewed budgets and expenditures for a federal funding source, identifying cost savings opportunities and successfully negotiating a 10% reduction in expenses. Additionally, I have prepared and reviewed tax returns for a portfolio of 50 clients, resulting in a 95% accuracy rate and a 20% increase in client satisfaction.

Prior to my current role, I managed the preparation of financial statements and reports for a publicly traded company, ensuring compliance with GAAP and SEC regulations and achieving a 100% accuracy rate. I also collaborated with cross-functional teams to develop and implement a new expense tracking system, resulting in a 30% reduction in processing time and a 20% increase in data accuracy. Furthermore, I provided financial analysis and recommendations to senior leadership, resulting in a successful merger with a competitor and a 10% increase in market share.

In my previous role, I implemented a new accounts payable system, reducing processing time by 50% and improving vendor relationships by 25%. I also developed and maintained a budget for a non-profit organization, resulting in a 15% increase in funding and a 10% increase in program offerings. Additionally, I managed the reconciliation of balance sheet accounts for a portfolio of 100 clients, resulting in a 98% accuracy rate and a 20% increase in client retention.

I am excited about the opportunity to bring my skills and experience to [Company Name] and contribute to the success of your organization. Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to discussing my qualifications further.

[Your Name]

As an Accountant, you understand the importance of attention to detail and accuracy in your work. Similarly, pairing your resume with a well-crafted cover letter can showcase your professionalism and attention to detail, setting you apart from other applicants. A cover letter is an extension of your resume, an opportunity to highlight your relevant experience and demonstrate your passion for the role. Contrary to common belief, crafting a compelling cover letter doesn't have to be a daunting task, and the benefits far outweigh the effort required.

Here are some compelling reasons for submitting a cover letter as an Accountant:

• Personalize your application and showcase your genuine interest in the company and role
• Illustrate your unique value proposition and how your skills align with the specific job requirements, such as experience with tax preparation or financial analysis
• Communicate your understanding of the company's financial needs and how you plan to address them
• Share success stories and achievements that couldn't be accommodated in your resume, such as improving financial processes or saving the company money
• Demonstrate your writing and communication skills, which are essential for Accountants
• Highlight any relevant certifications or licenses that make you stand out from other applicants
• Address any potential red flags in your resume, such as gaps in employment or a change in career path
• Differentiate yourself from other applicants who might have opted not to submit a cover letter, showing your dedication and commitment to the role.

In summary, a well-crafted cover letter can be the difference between getting an interview or not. It allows you to showcase your unique skills and experience, demonstrate your passion for the role, and set yourself apart from other applicants. As an Accountant, attention to detail and accuracy are essential, and a cover letter is an opportunity to demonstrate these qualities in your application.

Resume FAQs for Accountants:

How long should i make my accountant resume.

An Accountant's resume should ideally be one to two pages long. The length of the resume depends on the individual's experience, skills, and relevant accomplishments in the accounting field. For entry-level Accountants or those with only a few years of experience, a one-page resume is usually sufficient. It should focus on education, relevant coursework, internships, and any entry-level accounting positions held. For more experienced Accountants, a two-page resume may be necessary to showcase a more extensive work history, professional certifications, and accomplishments. It is essential to highlight relevant experience, skills, and achievements that demonstrate your expertise in accounting and make you stand out as a candidate. Regardless of the length, it is crucial to keep the resume concise, well-organized, and tailored to the specific job you are applying for. Focus on including relevant information that showcases your accounting skills, knowledge, and experience, and avoid

What is the best way to format a Accountant resume?

The best way to format an Accountant resume is to focus on clarity, organization, and showcasing relevant skills and experiences. Here are some key elements to consider when formatting an Accountant resume: 1. Choose a clean and professional layout: Use a simple font like Arial or Calibri, and keep the font size between 10 and 12 points. Use consistent formatting for headings and bullet points. Make sure there is enough white space to make the resume easy to read. 2. Start with a strong header: Include your name, contact information, and a professional email address. You may also include your LinkedIn profile URL if it's up-to-date and relevant. 3. Write a concise objective or summary statement: In a few sentences, highlight your most relevant skills, experiences, and career goals. This statement should be tailored to the specific job you are applying for and should demonstrate your value as an Account

Which Accountant skills are most important to highlight in a resume?

As an AI language model, I can provide the following response: When highlighting skills on a resume as an Accountant, it is important to focus on both technical and soft skills. Technical skills such as proficiency in accounting software, financial analysis, and tax preparation are essential. Additionally, highlighting soft skills such as attention to detail, communication, and problem-solving abilities can set you apart from other candidates. It is also important to showcase your ability to work independently and as part of a team, as well as your experience in managing projects and meeting deadlines. Lastly, highlighting any relevant certifications or licenses, such as a CPA or CMA, can demonstrate your commitment to the field and your expertise in the industry.

How should you write a resume if you have no experience as a Accountant?

If you have no experience as an Accountant, it is important to focus on highlighting your relevant skills, education, and any relevant work experience you may have. Here are some tips for writing a resume as an aspiring Accountant with no experience: 1. Start with a strong objective statement: Use this section to highlight your career goals and how you plan to use your skills and education to contribute to the accounting field. 2. Highlight your education: List your degree, major, and any relevant coursework or certifications you have completed. If you have a high GPA, be sure to include it. 3. Emphasize your skills: Focus on highlighting your transferable skills, such as attention to detail, analytical thinking, and problem-solving abilities. These skills are essential for success in the accounting field. 4. Include any relevant work experience: Even if you have not worked as an Accountant before, you may have relevant experience in other fields. For example, if you have worked in customer service, you

Compare Your Accountant Resume to a Job Description:

• Identify opportunities to further tailor your resume to the Accountant job
• Improve your keyword usage to align your experience and skills with the position
• Uncover and address potential gaps in your resume that may be important to the hiring manager

Related Resumes for Accountants:

Accountant resume example, entry level accountant resume example, staff accountant resume example, cost accountant resume example, junior accountant resume example, payroll accountant resume example, general ledger accountant resume example, accountant assistant resume example, senior accountant resume example, public accountant resume example, chartered accountant resume example, property accountant resume example, fund accountant resume example, more resume guidance:.

Accountant Resume Examples and Templates for 2024

• Resume Examples
• Resume Text Examples

How To Write an Accountant Resume

• Entry-Level
• Senior-level

Accountant Text-Only Resume Templates and Examples

• Senior-Level

Michael Hamill (123) 456-7890 | [email protected] | Los Angeles, CA 33333 | www.linkedin.com/example

College graduate with CPA certification and nearly two years of accounting internship experience. Fast learner able to work long and flexible hours. Equally effective working independently or on a team.

• Accounts payable and receivable
• Budget planning and forecasting
• Reporting and documentation
• Team collaboration
• Time management

Bachelor of Science (BS) – Accounting (minor in Business Administration), Los Angeles University, Los Angeles, CA | 2022 3.9 GPA | magna cum laude | Member of the university’s chapter of the Accounting Society

Professional Experience

Accounting Intern, Woolworth’s Incorporated, Los Angeles, CA | August 2021 to present

• Help prepare debit and credit documents for over 100 clients
• Facilitate weekly audits of varying accounts to ensure accuracy
• Organize and maintain records for many clients and vendors
• Collaborate with other interns on key projects
• Perform complex accounting procedures, and assist support staff

Highlights:

• Ranked No. 3 out of 15 team members for both efficiency and accuracy
• Helped team leader develop four new initiatives for better internal communications and organization

Technical Skills 

Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint) | NetSuite | QuickBooks | Quicken | ZipBooks

Tammy Jones (123) 456-7890 | [email protected] | Sacramento, CA 12345 | www.linkedin.com/example

Organized accounting professional with a record of success helping clients decrease costs, balance books, and reconcile accounts. Naturally curious and committed to gaining and applying new expertise. Bilingual: Fluent in English and Spanish.

• Account reconciliation
• Client relations
• Cost reduction and elimination
• Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP)
• Statutory Accounting Principles (SAP) accounting system

Accounting Specialist, XYZ Accountants, Sacramento, CA | January 2012 to present

• Ensure accuracy of all transactions with clients, vendors, and employees
• Collaborative role working closely with managers and other staff members
• Identified and averted over $250,000 in lost revenue from bank errors
• Won “Accounting Expert of the Month” five times for outstanding diligence and accuracy
• Enhanced client relationships by actively addressing and resolving late payments

Bachelor of Science — Accounting (minor in Business Administration), Sacramento University, Sacramento, CA

Fluency in Spanish | Proficiency in Italian

Ann Smith (123) 789-6788 | [email protected] | Fort Worth, TX 11111 | www.linkedin.com/example

CPA dedicated to raising companies’ bottom line. Skilled at preparing financial reports, reconciling accounts, collecting money owed, and completing special projects. Adapt readily to new work challenges and industry conditions.

• Accounting software (QuickBooks, Quicken)
• Accounts receivable
• Financial report preparation
• General ledger accounting
• Process streamlining
• Project management

Senior Accountant, Brown & Associates, Fort Worth, TX | January 2015 to present

• Streamline work processes to improve productivity of a 100-person workforce
• Prepare monthly closing and profit and loss (P&L) statements for managers and board of directors
• Advise company president on financial issues and considerations
• Found and recovered about $120,000 in lost revenue through bank reconciliation
• Introduced accounting best practices that decreased company financial errors by 10% in five years

Staff Accountant, Tom Smith Accountant, College Place, TX | August 2008 to December 2014

• Coordinated benefits for a staff of more than 20
• Generated weekly payroll and bonuses, and checked for accuracy with time
• Investigated and resolved any discrepancies with bank accounts
• Collaborated with senior financial officers to print and distribute quarterly financial statements

Bachelor of Science (BS) — Accounting, University of Texas, Austin | 2014

Certification

• CPA, Association of Certified Public Accountants

Whether you’d like to work with companies, nonprofits, or individual clients, you can write a great accountant resume by showing your skill at building financial success and stability. The following tips and examples will assist you in exploring this topic and creating compelling content for each section of your accounting job resume.

1. Craft an outstanding profile with a summary of your accountant qualifications

In a brief paragraph at the top of your resume, the Profile should name three to five key reasons why you deliver strong accounting oversight and support. By showcasing your top qualifications this way, you can assure target employers you’re a fit for the accountant role they want to fill.

For example, maybe you have a reputation for helping businesses find and remove unnecessary costs. Or perhaps you’ve worked on successful initiatives for better legal compliance. Alternatively, you may have years of experience with startup budgets, and that’s a key focus of the accounting jobs you’re now after. You can also cite reasons outside your accounting work experience – for instance, a recently finished master’s degree or advanced certification that sets you apart.

Mid-Career Profile Example

Senior-level profile example.

Certified public accountant (CPA) dedicated to raising companies’ bottom lines. Skilled at preparing financial reports, reconciling accounts, collecting money owed, and completing special projects. Adapt readily to new work challenges and industry conditions.

2. Add a compelling section featuring your accountant experience

Under each past accounting job, give quantified examples of your helping people or organizations improve their financial position. For example, you may have developed cost analyses that enabled your organization to improve its bottom line. Perhaps you designed a system to prepare your taxes faster and more accurately. Or you depleted a backlog of late payments. Examples like these show hiring managers you can generate similar fiscal solutions for their company.

For any non-accounting jobs in your recent work history , focus your description on the transferable skills you gained. Say you worked as a receptionist – you could use this job description to emphasize client relations, careful documentation, or any other skill areas you expect to use in your next accounting job.

Entry-Level Experience Example

Accounting intern, Woolworth’s Incorporated, Los Angeles, CA | August 2021 to present

• Facilitate weekly audit of varying accounts to ensure accuracy
• Perform complex accounting procedures and assist support staff

Mid-Career Experience Example

3. include accountant-related education and certifications.

View the Education and Certifications sections as another chance to show your expertise in supporting clients’ or employers’ financial health. Give at least the basic details on your highest degree in finance or accounting and any other postsecondary degrees you’ve earned. Also, share details on your CPA or other accounting-related certifications. With these credentials on your resume, you can assure hiring managers you’ll draw on a solid knowledge base when offering financial analysis and solutions.

Below are templates and examples to help you format your education and certification details. Note that optional template items appear in [brackets].

• Degree Name — [Concentration], School Name, City, ST | [Year]
• [#.# GPA] | [academic honors or awards]
• Bachelor of Science (BS) — Accounting (minor in Business Administration), Los Angeles University, Los Angeles, CA | 2022
• Certification Name or Title, [Awarding Organization] | [Year]

4. Outline your most useful accountant skills and proficiencies

Include a “Key Skills” section on your resume to show the various ways you help build and ensure financial success. For most accountants, this section should cover expense reduction, financial reporting, and complex problem-solving. You may also want to name the specific technical programs or accounting software you’ve used, like advanced Excel or QuickBooks (but if you have five or more, consider making them their own “Technical Skills” section). Below are some common accounting skills you may add to your “Key Skills” section:

How To Pick the Best Accountant Resume Template

As with most vocations, accountants should use a resume template that’s clear and straightforward. Opt for a visual design that lets the hiring manager quickly review your most impressive career details. Use a simple resume font , and avoid any template that has an overly colorful or elaborate design.

Frequently Asked Questions: Accountant Resume Examples and Advice

What are common action verbs for accountant resumes -.

One of the best ways to enhance your resume is by using a good mix of action verbs in your Experience section. Strong verbs for accountants include “secure,” “reconcile,” and “reinforce.” The following list will help you brainstorm and write about the various ways you’ve made an impact in your accounting career so far:

How do you align your accountant resume with a job posting? -

The Bureau of Labor Statistics forecasts that jobs for accountants will increase by about 6% between 2021 and 2031. This growth rate is roughly the same as the average for all U.S. vocations.

You can get more interviews in this growing field if you tailor your resume to each application. For example, if the job post calls for someone with a collaborative streak, you may want to emphasize that aspect of your experience in your Profile and Key Skills sections. Or say the company has many non-English speaking clients or business partners. In that case, highlight your foreign language skills both in your Profile and as a separate section farther down the document. With adjustments like these, you can make your resume more relevant to each opportunity in your job search.

What is the best accountant resume format? -

In nearly all cases, use a Combination (or Hybrid) resume because it’s easiest for hiring managers to learn about your relevant skills and experience. It’s also simplest for you to modify based on your job goals. With the Combination format, you highlight your most relevant skills and background in your Experience or Work History section and an intro section. (This combination of work history and intro content is where the format gets its name.) Your resume intro usually should include a Profile summary and Key Skills section, but you may also include an Awards or Career Highlights section.

To increase your chances of an interview, write a strong cover letter. The key to an effective letter is customizing it based on each job opening. Read our accountant cover letter guide to learn how. For other related examples, see our bookkeeper and finance cover letter guides.

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Jacob Meade

Certified Professional Resume Writer (CPRW, ACRW)

Jacob Meade is a resume writer and editor with nearly a decade of experience. His writing method centers on understanding and then expressing each person’s unique work history and strengths toward their career goal. Jacob has enjoyed working with jobseekers of all ages and career levels, finding that a clear and focused resume can help people from any walk of life. He is an Academy Certified Resume Writer (ACRW) with the Resume Writing Academy, and a Certified Professional Resume Writer (CPRW) with the Professional Association of Resume Writers & Career Coaches.

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• • Reduced errors in financial reports by 20% through implementation of new processes and controls.
• • Managed the successful implementation of a new accounting system, resulting in a 30% decrease in processing time.
• • Collaborated with the tax department to identify and reduce the company's tax liability, resulting in a savings of $500,000.
• • Implemented a new budgeting process, reducing budget variances by 15%.
• • Developed financial models to support the launch of a new product line, resulting in a projected revenue increase of $2 million.
• • Collaborated with the procurement department to negotiate new supplier contracts, resulting in a cost savings of $1 million.
• • Prepared tax returns for individual and corporate clients, resulting in $500,000 in tax savings.
• • Conducted financial statement analysis and identified areas for improvement, resulting in a 10% increase in revenue for a client.
• • Assisted with audit support for a client and helped to identify $1 million in cost savings through process improvement.

32 Accountant Resume Examples & Guide for 2024

Your accounting resume must showcase your proficiency with financial software and your attention to detail. It should clearly illustrate your ability to organize and analyze financial data. Do not forget to highlight your understanding of various accounting principles and regulations. Employers are looking for your experience with tax preparation and auditing processes to stand out.

All resume examples in this guide

Accounting Intern

Entry-Level Accountant

Junior Cost Accountant

Senior Accountant

Senior Tax Accountant

Accounting Analyst

Accounting Assistant

Accounting Supervisor

Big 4 Accounting

Construction Accounting

Corporate Accounting

Cost Accounting

Director of Accounting

Financial Accounting

Forensic Accounting

Full Cycle Accounting

Functional Accounting

Fund Accountant

General Ledger Accounting

Government Accounting

Hotel Accounting

Management Accounting

Oracle Project Accounting

Project Accounting

Public Accounting

Purchase Accounting

Tax Accountant

Onboarding Accountant

Staff Accountant

Revenue Tax Accountant

Resume guide, accountant resume sample.

Resume format

Resume experience

Entry-level resume

Hard & soft skills

Certifications & Education

Resume summary

Additional sections

In conclusion

By Experience

According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics , employment of accountants is projected to grow by 4% from 2022 to 2032. However, the job comes with its challenges. Difficult clients, poor resourcing, unrealistic deadlines, and bosses who think accounting software does all the work are common hurdles. Even if you excel at the actual job, you still need to navigate the recruiting process.

When searching for an accounting job, your resume must stand out. Highlight your financial skills and detail your experience in managing records. Use this guide to create a resume that makes a strong impression on recruiters.

Key takeaways

• Organize your work history and career advancement in accounting in reverse chronological order.
• Develop a compelling resume summary that emphasizes your key qualifications, accounting approach, and significant accomplishments.
• Present both technical and interpersonal skills, including expertise in accounting software and strong analytical capabilities.
• Underscore the impact of your accounting work using specific metrics.
• Tailor your resume for each job by aligning your skills and experiences with the specific requirements of the position.
• Share details about your education and relevant certifications to show you're qualified and knowledgeable in accounting.
• If you don't have work experience, highlight any internships, personal projects and volunteer work that prove your accounting skills.

An impactful resume for accountants is essential, so let’s explore the best way to format it to underline your skills and expertise.

Below, you’ll find an accountant resume sample to guide you.

Andrew Green

[email protected]  | @linkedin.com | San Francisco, California

Detail-oriented and organized Accountant with 4 years of experience managing financial transactions, preparing accurate financial statements, and ensuring compliance with tax regulations. Proficient in QuickBooks and Excel, with a strong understanding of GAAP and a proven track record of maintaining accurate records.

Smith & Associates, San Francisco, CA

June 2020 - Present

• Managed accounts payable and receivable, ensuring timely and accurate processing of transactions.
• Reconciled bank statements monthly, identifying and resolving discrepancies to maintain financial accuracy.
• Prepared financial statements, including balance sheets, income statements, and cash flow statements, resulting in timely reporting.
• Assisted with budgeting and forecasting, providing detailed financial analysis to support decision-making.
• Maintained accurate and up-to-date accounting records, improving record-keeping efficiency by 15%.

Junior Accountant

Financial Solutions Inc., San Francisco, CA

June 2018 - May 2020

• Supported the accounting team with daily tasks, including data entry and financial report generation.
• Assisted in the preparation of monthly financial statements, ensuring accuracy and timeliness.
• Performed bank reconciliations and identified discrepancies, contributing to financial accuracy.
• Participated in internal audits, verifying the accuracy of financial records and controls.

Bachelor of Science in Accounting

University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, CA

2014 - 2018

• Related Coursework:  Advanced Accounting Principles, Taxation and Business Strategy, Financial Statement Analysis, Auditing and Assurance Services, Managerial Accounting, Corporate Finance
• Certifications
• Certified Public Accountant (CPA)
• QuickBooks Certified User
• Financial Reporting
• Tax Compliance
• Accounts Payable and Receivable
• Bank Reconciliations
• Budgeting and Forecasting
• Microsoft Excel
• English (Fluent)
• Spanish (Intermediate)

How to format an accountant resume

There are three main formats  to consider for your accountant resume: reverse chronological, functional, and combination. Typically, the reverse chronological format  is the most effective choice for this type of resume.

This approach organizes your job experience from the newest position to the oldest, focusing on your professional development and practical experience. It suits applicants with a steady accounting career, effectively illustrating their advancement and relevant qualifications.

Here's the ideal order for your resume sections, which we'll cover in detail later:

• Summary/objective
• Professional experience

This structure is preferred by recruiters for its natural and appealing organization.

Now, let's dive into the specifics:

Resume designs

• Keep consistent margins  of about 1 inch to maintain readability, and opt for a two-column template  for a sleek, professional appearance.
• Choose straightforward fonts  like Rubik or Lato, sized between 10 and 12 points, and choose soft colors  to highlight your skills.
• Limit the resume to one page  if you have less than 10 years of experience, but senior professionals can extend it to two pages  if needed.

Contact information

• Make sure your name is spelled the same way across all your application documents. Match the job title on your resume to the one you're applying for. For instance, if the job is for a Tax Accountant, use those exact words on your resume. This helps streamline the hiring process.
• Add a resume headline  to emphasize your key skills and experiences, which is particularly helpful in the diverse field of accounting.
• Provide a professional email address  and include a link to your LinkedIn profile , if it’s up-to-date.
• To adhere to US resume standards and prevent biases, don’t include a photo of yourself .

File format

• Use a straightforward file name  like "AndrewGreenAccountantResume.pdf" so recruiters can easily find your resume.
• Save your resume as a PDF  unless the job posting requests a different format. PDFs maintain formatting and are easily parsed by ATS .

Don’t fear the ATS. Focus on matching the job description language, formatting dates and bullet points correctly. Plus, avoid keyword stuffing. Keep your resume clear and readable for both systems and humans.

Want to know if your resume is ATS-friendly? Check it with our free AI tool below!

Is your resume good enough?

Drop your resume here or choose a file . PDF & DOCX only. Max 2MB file size.

Once the resume format is set, let's emphasize your experience in accounting.

How to write your accountant resume experience

Including your professional experience on an accountant's resume is important because it underscores your hands-on skills, builds trust, and shows your experience in managing finances. It demonstrates to potential employers your expertise in real-world accounting.

Emphasize your major accomplishments with quantifiable results, such as increasing financial efficiency, reducing expenses, and improving accuracy.

Ensure your resume is clear and structured by using bullet points  and listing your experience in reverse chronological order. Tailor your resume to the job requirements to convince the recruiter you’re the right candidate.

Why to tailor your accountant resume to the job description and hot to do it correctly

Tailoring your resume  to the job description ensures that your most relevant qualifications are front and center. This strategy helps you stand out and can make a big difference in getting noticed by hiring managers. By mentioning the exact skills and experiences the employer needs, you make it easy for them to see why you’re a great fit for the job.

This is known as a targeted resume . But how to do it in the right way?

Here are some useful tips:

• Read the job offer carefully and find out the skills and qualifications outlined, and weave these specific keywords  into your job descriptions .
• Spotlight elements of your prior roles that correlate with the new job’s requirements, such as proficiency in accounting tools, financial analysis, or budget oversight.
• Quantify your achievements  to illustrate the results of your contributions, such as "lowered expenses by 10%."
• Underline job titles and duties that align closely with the position you're applying for, even if it necessitates emphasizing particular aspects of your past experience.

Here’s an example of an accountant job listing we’ll focus on to customize our work experience  entry. Take a look at the job details.

The Accountant will:

• Manage all aspects of the accounting cycle , including accounts payable and receivable, bank reconciliations, and journal entries.
• Reconcile bank statements and identify discrepancies
• Prepare accurate and timely financial statements , such as balance sheets, income statements, and cash flow statements.
• Assist with budgeting and forecasting .
• Maintain accurate and up-to-date accounting records
• Calculate and file federal, state, and local taxes.
• Analyze financial data  and trends to identify areas for improvement.
• Maintain strong internal controls and ensure adherence to accounting policies and procedures.
• Ensure compliance  with all relevant accounting standards and tax regulations
• Communicate effectively with other departments, such as sales and operations.
• Stay up-to-date on current tax laws and accounting standards.
• May participate in audits or respond to inquiries from auditors

Required skills

• Minimum of 3—4 years of experience  in a similar role.
• Strong understanding of Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP) .
• Proficient in accounting software, such as Unanet, UKG, or QuickBooks .
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills .
• Strong attention to detail and accuracy.
• Excellent communication  and interpersonal skills.
• Government contracts experience is a plus
• Strong experience with Microsoft Excel  is preferred

Let's take a look at how we've customized the entry below:

• • Handled all aspects of the accounting cycle, including accounts payable and receivable, bank reconciliations, and journal entries, managing transactions worth over $5M each year.
• • Reconciled bank statements and pinpointed discrepancies, cutting errors by 1o% and ensuring financial records were accurate.
• • Assisted in budgeting and forecasting, which led to a 12% boost in budget accuracy.
• • Kept accounting records up-to-date and accurate, enhancing record-keeping efficiency by 20%.
• • Applied GAAP to maintain compliance and improve financial accuracy.
• • Used accounting software like QuickBooks to streamline financial processes, boosting efficiency by 20%.

Now the customized resume fit the job ad requirements because it:

• Highlights GAAP application for compliance and accuracy improvement.
• Emphasizes QuickBooks use, boosting process efficiency by 20%, meeting technical skill needs.
• Demonstrates impact with metrics: managing $5M transactions, reducing errors by 10%, improving efficiency by 20%.
• Covers essential skills: handling accounts, reconciling statements, budgeting, and accurate record-keeping.
• Suggests strong Excel proficiency with 12% budgeting accuracy and 20% efficiency improvements.

How to quantify your experience on a resume

Using numbers and results on your resume is key—it brings your achievements to life. If possible include specific metrics like percentages, dollar amounts, or other clear figures to prove your impact.

For instance, an accountant’s experience section could include these bullet points:

• Include metrics on improving financial accuracy, such as "increased budget accuracy by 12% through detailed forecasting."
• Underscore cost-saving achievements, such as "reduced operational costs by 15% through expense audits and vendor negotiations."
• Detail revenue growth contributions, such as "boosted revenue by 10% through efficient billing and collection practices."
• Mention process improvements, such as "enhanced record-keeping efficiency by 20% with automated accounting software."
• Specify compliance improvements, such as "ensured 100% compliance with tax regulations, avoiding penalties and fines."

Even if you're just starting out in accounting, this strategy can help you shine. Discover how in the next section.

How do I write an accountant resume with no experience

Diving into an accounting career can be both exciting and demanding, particularly if you lack extensive experience. But don’t stress! You can still put together an accountant resume that highlights your potential and makes you shine.

Here are some helpful tips:

• Use a functional resume  format to spotlight your skills and academic accomplishments.
• Opt for a simple template  to maintain a professional appearance despite limited experience.
• Detail relevant coursework  and academic projects that show your grasp of accounting principles and problem-solving abilities.
• Show recruiters that you possess the technical skills  and familiarity with accounting software, like QuickBooks or Excel, required for the role by underlining your technical training or courses.
• Focus on your transferable skills . Summer jobs or internships, even if unrelated  to accounting, can help you develop valuable skills like financial analysis or data entry, so be sure to include them.
• Highlight any practical experience with financial documents, such as creating balance sheets or income statements.
• Add volunteer experience  or extracurricular activities that involve accounting responsibilities or teamwork.

Resume objective for entry-level accountant

On an entry-level resume  for accountants, an objective statement  is important because it demonstrates your career goals and eagerness to enter the field, even if you have little work experience .

For a top-notch objective statement, make sure to:

• State your career goals or the position you're interested in.
• Shape it to the role and employer, incorporating keywords from the job listing to show your goals align with their requirements.
• Emphasize the key skills or qualifications that will assure hiring managers that you are an ideal candidate.
• Illustrate how your abilities can benefit the company and contribute to its success.

Let's delve into examples of effective objective statements.

Now that your experience is clear, let’s move to the skills section  of your accountant resume.

How to list your hard and soft skills on your resume

Having both soft and hard skills  on your accounting resume is crucial. It demonstrates that you're not only proficient with numbers but also effective in dealing with people, making you an ideal candidate for the role.

Here's a closer look:

• Hard skills are the core competencies  of your job. These include abilities you've acquired through education and experience, such as proficiency with accounting software, preparing financial statements, and handling tax filings.
• Soft skills  focus on how you interact with others. They encompass your communication abilities, teamwork, and problem-solving skills.

Here are some specific suggestions that you can include in your resume.

Best hard skills for your accountant resume

• Oracle Financials

Here are some key people skills  that are in high demand for accountants. These skills should be woven into various resume sections , such as the summary or experience parts, where they can be easily quantified and described. For example, you could demonstrate problem-solving like this: “Resolved discrepancies in financial records, saving the company $50,000 annually.”

Best soft skills for your accountant resume

• Attention to detail
• Problem-solving
• Organization
• Adaptability
• Analytical thinking
• Time management
• Work ethics
• Communication
• Multitasking
• Conflict resolution
• Critical thinking
• Customer service
• Negotiation skills
• Decision making

Now that the essential skills for accountants are clear, it's important to focus on certifications and education. These qualifications are key to demonstrating your commitment and expertise.

How to list your certifications and education on your resume

Your resume’s education section needs to reflect your primary accounting and technical competencies. Customize this section to match the job description, similar to your work experience. Employers review this to verify that you possess the necessary training to support your abilities.

Must-haves for your education section :

• Degree and major
• University name
• Graduation date
• Relevant coursework
• Honors and awards

Take a moment to see an example tailored to the job description shared below.

• • Completed coursework in Financial Accounting, Taxation, and Auditing.
• • Participated in the Accounting Club and served as the Treasurer.
• • Graduated with honors.
• • Conducted a senior project on event management and customer service.

This example effectively demonstrates a well-rounded educational background, tailored to an accountant's role, for several reasons:

• It includes a Bachelor's Degree in Accounting, showcasing a solid educational foundation.
• The entry includes the degree/diploma, institution, location, and date range, providing a clear and complete picture of the applicant's educational history.
• Specific bullet points highlight relevant coursework, achievements, and extracurricular activities. This shows the candidate's active engagement and excellence in their field.
• Including the GPA  for the Bachelor's degree demonstrates academic excellence, making the candidate more attractive to potential employers.

You can further improve your resume by adding a solid certifications section. Accountants may not always need specific certifications, but having them can improve your qualifications and career prospects.

Best certifications for your accountant resume

• Certified Management Accountant (CMA)
• Certified Internal Auditor (CIA)
• Chartered Global Management Accountant (CGMA)
• Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA)

Your educational background is set, so let's create an engaging resume summary  that captures your professional strengths as an accountant.

How to write your accountant resume summary

Acting as a critical section of an accountant's resume, the summary offers a brief yet impactful introduction to your career milestones. It’s meant to capture hiring managers' interest by highlighting the most impressive aspects of your professional path.

Make your accountant summary impressive with these practical tips:

• State your years of experience in accounting to highlight your expertise.
• Emphasize key skills relevant to the position, such as proficiency in accounting software, tax compliance, or financial reporting.
• Quantify your achievements to provide concrete proof of your impact.
• Customize your summary to mirror the language and requirements of the job listing, underlining how your background makes you the perfect fit.

Check this good example.

This summary demonstrates key accounting experience and certifications, using specific achievements to prove impact. It uses strong action words  and metrics to show the applicant's proactive approach.

Now that you have the knowledge, you can design a powerful resume. Use Enhancv’s resume builder  to tailor your content and layout perfectly.

Additional sections for an accountant resume

Adding optional sections to an accountant's resume lets you show a wider variety of skills and experiences, setting you apart by showcasing distinctive aspects of your professional journey.

Additional sections to include if you have space:

• Professional affiliations :  Indicates your involvement in the accounting community, such as memberships in AICPA  or IMA , enhancing your credibility and showing ongoing professional development.
• Passions: Any hobbies can reflect your personality  and suggest a well-rounded character, potentially aligning personal passions with financial analysis and management trends.
• Language skills : Illustrates your ability to communicate in multiple languages, which is valuable in diverse teams and international accounting contexts.

This guide provides key strategies for creating an impressive accountant resume, boosting your chances of attracting hiring managers. By showcasing your skills, experiences, and unique traits, you're setting yourself up for a successful career move.

Accounting resume examples

Explore additional accounting resume samples and guides and see what works for your level of experience or role.

Looking to build your own Accounting resume?

• Resume Examples

Frequently asked questions about accountant resumes

How long should i make my accountant resume, what is the best format for an accountant resume, which accountant skills are most important to add to your resume, how can i make my accountant resume stand out, should i include a cover letter with my accountant resume, how can i showcase my achievements on an accountant resume, how far back to go on your resume, should i put pronouns on my resume, should you use first person in a resume – a quick guide, how to list certifications on a resume (examples included), questions to ask your future manager before joining the team, microsoft word resume templates.

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Accountant Resume - Writing Guide & Example for 2024

As an accountant, you’re a trusted individual that requires accuracy at all times.

You’ll be faced with many challenging tasks that you must get right, but perhaps you didn’t expect to face one so soon.

Your resume!

What does a good accountant resume look like, anyway?

With so many individuals competing for the top roles, you can’t leave any questions unanswered. 

But don’t worry, this guide has you covered!

• An example of a finished account resume that works
• How to write an accountant resume that’ll fill up your interview diary
• How to make your accountant resume stand out [with top tips & tricks]

Before we get into the details, here’s an example of a finished accountant resume, created with our very own resume builder :

Looks good, right?! Follow the steps below to create an accountant resume that get results, just like the above example.

Check out these related resume examples if you're on the lookout for a different position in the field:

• Bookkeeper Resume
• Business Analyst Resume
• Financial Analyst Resume
• Bank Teller Resume
• Banking Resume
• Executive Assistant Resume
• Consultant Resume
• Administrative Assistant Resume
• Office Assistant Resume
• Career Change Resume

How to Format an Accountant Resume

Before you can impress the hiring manager with your accounting talents, you need pick the best format.

So which resume format should you choose?

The “ reverse-chronological ” format is the most used, and we understand why. The format is easy to read and allows the hiring manager to immediately see why you’ll make a great accountant. 

The following resume formats can also work:

• Functional Resume – If your accountancy skills are stronger than your on-the-job experience, this resume format is recommended. It’s also ideal if you have gaps in your employment history or have changed career path
• Combination Resume – This format is a hybrid between the “Functional” and “Reverse-Chronological” formats. As such, it values both skills AND work experience. People use a combination resume when they have a lot of experience

Once your format is ready, you need to organize your resume layout .

Use an Accountant Resume Template

As an accountant, you present data in a structured way.

Your resume is no different.

You can try creating your own resume with Word, but you will likely run into a bunch of formatting issues.

This is why we recommend accountants to use a resume template .

What to Include in an Accountant Resume

The main sections in an accountant resume are:

• Work Experience
• Contact Information

Want to go a step further? You can also add these optional sections:

• Awards & Certification

Interests & Hobbies

Read on to learn what to write for each of these sections.

You can learn even more by viewing our guide on What to Put on a Resume .

How to Correctly Display your Contact Information

Just like your client’s accounts, this section just needs to be factually-correct. 

Mistakes in this section can result in the hiring manager not being able to contact you – disaster! 

The contact information section must include:

• Title – Align this to the exact role you’re applying for, which is “Accountant”
• Phone Number – Check this for accuracy
• Email Address – Use a professional email address ([email protected]), not your childhood email ([email protected])
• (Optional) Location - Applying for a job abroad? Mention your location
• Edward Fakester - Accountant. 101-358-6095. [email protected]
• Edward Fakester - Numbers king. 101-358-6095. [email protected]

How to Write an Accountant Resume Summary or Objective

Here’s a fact for you – recruiters only spend a few seconds on each resume !

But should we really be surprised by this?  

Well, not when you consider the competitive nature of the accounting market. 

This means you have to hook the recruiter in just a few seconds.

But how can you do this?

The answer is simple: use an objective or resume summary .

Essentially, these are powerful introductions that are placed on top of your resume.

So, what is the difference between the two sections?

A resume summary is a 2-4 sentence summary of your professional experiences and achievements.

• Accountant with a history of accurately and efficiently supporting accounting activities for a diverse range of clientele. 5+ years of experience in presenting data, analyzing cost control, providing financial reports, and delivering profit and loss statements under time pressures. Achievements include saving Company X $52,000 by fixing a tax reporting error.

On the other hand, a resume objective is a 2-4 sentence snapshot of your professional goals and aspirations.

• Motivated accountancy student looking for a junior accounting job at Company X. Passionate about attention to detail and numbers. Experience balancing the books for local food stalls while at University X. Skilled in MS Office, FreshBooks, QuickBooks, Sage, and Microsoft Dynamics

So, which one is best, summary or objective?

Generally, experienced accounts should go with a summary. An objective is suited to those accounting graduates who lack the industry experience.

How to Make Your Accountant Work Experience Stand Out

An accountant’s job is all about accuracy.

As such, the recruiter needs to know that you can do a perfect job.

The easiest way to do this is to list your work experience.

Here’s the best structure:

• Position name
• Company Name
• Responsibilities & Achievements

DiscoverGrowthDigital

03/2016 - 07/2020

• Corrected account errors, which saved a total of $94,000
• Set-up a digital accountancy system for a 10% efficiency increase
• Processed 230+ Final Account Statements annually
• Complied with company procedures and federal laws

To make your work experience stand out from the crowd, you should focus on your most notable achievements. That way, your value is clear to see.

Instead of saying:

“In charge of accounts”

“Corrected account errors, which saved a total of $94,000”

Simply, the first statement is way too generic. It shows you were in charge of accounts, but it doesn’t show if you were successful or not. 

The second statement shows that you saved the company $94,000. Hard numbers that prove your skills – nothing beats that!

What if You Don’t Have Work Experience?

Finished education and are now looking for your first accounting job?

Or maybe, you’ve learnt accounting from online courses, but have no real experience in the field?

No company wants to hire an inexperienced accountant.

But don’t threat – there are ways to show you have the skills to do a great job.

What really matters here is your accounting portfolio.

If you already have any examples of your accounting skills, feel free to upload them online and link it in your resume (we’re going to explain how in a bit).

If not, it isn’t too late.

Here are a couple of easy ways to build a portfolio (and get paid for it):

• Use a freelance platform, like UpWork, to pick up some gigs
• Offer your accounting knowledge to friends & acquaintances at a reduced price

If you’re a recent graduate, you might want to check out our guide on how to make a student resume !

Use Action Words to Make Your Accountant Resume POP!

…are just some of the words that are repeated in every single resume. 

Do you want to separate your resume from the competition?

Then use some power words to make your achievements stand out:

• Conceptualized
• Spearheaded

How to Correctly List your Education

It’s important for an accountant to have relevant qualifications.

With that said, you can keep your educational section simple.

Simply enter your qualifications in the follow format:

• Degree Type & Major
• University Name
• Years Studied
• GPA, Honours, Relevant Courses.

B.A. in Accounting & Finance

Boston State University

• Relevant Courses: Finance Accounting, Foundations of Microeconomics, Management Accounting, Advanced Taxation, Auditing, International Banking

If you have some questions unanswered, the following information may help you: 

What if I am still in education?

• Regardless of whether you’re a graduate of accountancy or still studying, you should still mention every year of education to date.

Should I include my education before degree level?

• Generally, only include your highest education. So, include your high school education if you don’t have a relevant degree for accountancy.

What wins, education or experience?

• Real accountancy experience trumps education, so work experience goes first on your resume. 

Still not sure? Check out our guide on how to list education on a resume .

Top 25 Skills for an Accountant Resume

You need to do two things when writing a skills section:

• Look at the required skills that are listed in the job description
• Prove you have the skills

It’s as simple as that!

Here are some of the most common accountant skills:

Hard Skills for Accountants:

• Financial Statements
• Asset Management
• State Tax Law
• Tax Compliance
• Corporate Tax
• Account Analysis
• Regulatory Filings
• Revenue Projections
• Account Reconciliation
• Profit and Loss
• Tax Returns
• Payroll Taxes
• General Ledger

Soft Skills for an Accountant:

• Creative Thinking
• Communication
• Time-Management
• Organization
• Generally, only list your best soft skills. You see, every applicant puts a massive list of soft skills that are hard to back-up. Anyone can say they work well in a team, but not many are well-versed in tax compliance.

Here’s a more comprehensive list of 101+ must-have skills this year .

What Else Can You Include in an Accountant Resume?

So, those are the most important sections to put on an accountant resume.

But you can do even more.

Covering the most important sections should get you shortlisted, but adding a few extra sections can get your resume to the top of the pile.

Awards & Certifications

Have you won an award in an accountancy-related field?

Have you completed a course to improve your knowledge?

Whatever it is, make sure to mention it in your resume!

Here’s an example:

Awards & Certificates

• “Financial Accounting Fundamentals” – Coursera Certificate
• “Apprentice of the Year 2016” – LUCA Awards
• “Critical Thinking Masterclass” – MadeUpUniversity

Even though accountants deal with numbers, not words, being able to speak multiple languages is a useful skill to have. As such, list your languages if you have space.

Rank the languages by proficiency:

• Intermediate

Now, you’re likely thinking, “why do I need to tell the recruiter about my book club?”

Well, your personal interests give an idea into the person you are.

Hobbies show that you’ll be a good part of the team, especially if you enjoy social activities. 

Here’s which hobbies & interests you may want to mention.

Include a Cover Letter with Your Resume

Want to separate your application from the competition?

Craft a compelling cover letter!

This personal piece of content shows the company that you want to work for them, which is in direct contrast to other applicants that send dozens of generic resumes.

Here’s how to structure a winning cover letter:

You should complete the following sections:

Personal Contact Information

Your full name, profession, email, phone number, and location

Hiring Manager’s Contact Information

Full name, position, location, and email.

Opening Paragraph

You don’t have long to catch the recruiters attention, so use concise language to mention:

• The accountancy position you’re applying for
• Your experience summary and best achievement to date

Once you’ve captured their interest, you can delve into the following specifics:

• Why you want to be an accountant for the company
• What you know about the company
• How are your accounting skills relevant for the job
• Which similar industries or positions have you worked in before

Closing Paragraph

End the letter in a friendly way, you should:

• Conclude the main points of the letter
• Thank the hiring manager for the opportunity
• Finish with a call to action that allows the conversation to continue. We recommend, “At your earliest opportunity, I’d love to discuss more about how I can help company X”

Formal Salutations

End the letter in a professional manner. Something like, “Kind regards” or “Sincerely.”

For more inspiration, read our step-by-step guide on how to write a cover letter.

Key Takeaways

You’ve just given yourself the best chance of landing that accounting role. 

But before you go, let’s total-up everything you’ve learned:

• Format your accounting resume correctly. Prioritize the reverse-chronological format, and then follow the best practices on content layout
• In your work experience section, highlight your best achievements, rather than your daily responsibilities
• Defeat the competition with a convincing cover letter

Suggested Reading:

• Use Resume Keywords to Land the Job [880+ Keywords]
• 101+ Achievements to List On Your Resume [In 2024]
• What Is Your Greatest Accomplishment? [3 Proven Answers]

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Resume Worded   |  Proven Resume Examples

• Resume Examples
• Finance Resumes

34 Accountant Resume Examples - Here's What Works In 2024

Accountants are key players in the daily operations of most businesses. we cover what you need to know to land an accounting job in 2023 (google docs and pdfs attached)..

Practically all businesses need to do some form of accounting. Companies typically manage their finances by monitoring cash flow and keeping records of transactions. In many cases, they also analyze financial data to gain insights about the health of the business. Accountants specialize in providing these financial services. Their duties can overlap with those of a financial analyst -- one major difference is that accountants focus on everyday operations, whereas financial analysts provide big-picture insights and recommendations based on company performance and market conditions over time. In either case, these professionals perform vital work for businesses. Accounting job prospects are expanding and are not likely to disappear anytime soon -- by 2029, the US Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts that accounting jobs will grow by 4%. Most accountants are detail-oriented, conscientious, and excellent at working with numbers. If you’re seeking an accounting job, you need a resume that shows you have the right skills for the job. What does it take to build a stellar accounting resume in 2023? Here are some templates to follow that could increase your odds of getting hired.

Accountant Resume Templates

Jump to a template:

• Accounting Clerk
• Accounting Manager
• Senior Accountant / Accounting Executive
• Entry Level Accountant
• Staff Accountant
• Cost Accountant
• Payroll Accountant
• Accounting Assistant
• Tax Accountant
• Accounting Specialist
• Junior Accountant
• Project Accountant
• Public Accountant
• Fund Accountant
• Senior Tax Accountant
• Property Accountant
• Experienced Accountant
• Construction Accountant
• Fixed Asset Accountant
• Corporate Accountant
• Revenue Accountant
• Chief Accounting Officer
• Director of Accounting

Jump to a resource:

• Keywords for Accountant Resumes

Accountant Resume Tips

• Action Verbs to Use
• Bullet Points on Accountant Resumes
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Related Finance Resumes

Get advice on each section of your resume:

Template 1 of 34: Accountant Resume Example

An accountant is a financial professional who keeps track of an organization’s transaction history, including costs and income. They evaluate a company’s financial performance and provide reports to stakeholders. Additionally, an accountant must issue employee payments, record bank statements, and issue taxes. You should demonstrate your impact on the bottom line in your accountant resume. Accountants can help organizations improve their operations, reduce risks, and generate more profit. You can use this as a reference as to what metrics and accomplishments to include in your resume.

We're just getting the template ready for you, just a second left.

Tips to help you write your Accountant resume in 2024

   highlight your knowledge of relevant (and recent) accounting regulations on your resume..

Accountants should provide accurate and transparent financial information to the government, investors, and banks. That’s why accounting compliance regulates their operations and sets ethical standards that they must follow. Show knowledge of recent developments in your industry by including projects that involved up-to-date or recent laws or accounting frameworks.

   Indicate your area of specialization.

Accountants can specialize in a particular area such as payroll, tax, and inventory accounting. This is something you should specify in your resume, either in your resume's title or summary section. By doing this, you demonstrate more authority in your field, which makes you more competitive for recruiters.

Skills you can include on your Accountant resume

Template 2 of 34: accounting clerk resume example.

An accounting clerk sits on a company’s accounting team within their finance department. These professionals are responsible for administrative accounting tasks such as reporting, bookkeeping, discrepancy identification and resolution, and invoice collection. These professionals deal with the granular aspects of a business's finances, ensuring payments are timely from customers and books are balanced. To become an accounting clerk, you will need a minimum of an associate's degree in accounting. A bachelor’s degree can help you land this role but is not always required. Hiring managers will look for someone with accounting experience, such as a prior role as a bookkeeper or debt collector. Moreover, they’ll look for candidates with a deep understanding of accounting processes, computer literacy, and superb organization and time management skills.

Tips to help you write your Accounting Clerk resume in 2024

   highlight your organizational abilities.

Since accounting clerks are usually responsible for organizing and cataloging important paperwork such as bills, invoices, and payment orders - showing you are highly organized will help you get this role. Highlight your organizational skills by detailing situations where you have successfully kept track of varying documents in prior roles.

   Showcase your experience solving account discrepancies or delinquency

It’s important that the accounting clerk is able to solve financial issues such as delinquent accounts. It’s important to highlight any experience you have identifying discrepancies or delinquent accounts and how you solved them.

Skills you can include on your Accounting Clerk resume

Template 3 of 34: accounting clerk resume example.

Accounting clerks perform various administrative tasks such as bookkeeping, reconciling accounts, tracking payments, and collecting data for audits. To get this job, your resume should reflect that you are highly organized, analytical, and capable of juggling a myriad of responsibilities. Provide examples from your prior work experience to illustrate these skills.

   Uses clear action verbs to discuss accomplishments

Accounting clerks perform a wide array of clerical duties to support their departments. On your resume, you should choose precise action verbs to describe how you’ve handled similar responsibilities at previous jobs. Industry-specific verbs such as “audited”, “processed”, and “reconciled” are especially strong choices to emphasize your accounting skills.

   Resume lists relevant work experience

Although you can find entry-level accounting clerk positions, having prior experience within the field always makes you a stronger job candidate. Focusing your resume on accounting clerk positions (or similar roles) you’ve held in the past is ideal, and shows hiring managers that you are ready to succeed in the role.

Template 4 of 34: Accounting Manager Resume Example

The accounting manager is a senior-level position within the finance team at an organization. Accounting managers are leaders who oversee the accounting team and their day-to-day business processes. As an accounting manager, you may monitor and optimize workflow processes, identify cost-savings opportunities, and provide guidance to junior accountants. To become an accounting manager, you will need demonstrated knowledge in accounting, as well as an eye for detail and great leadership skills. For this role, hiring managers will look for a candidate with a bachelor’s degree in accounting, finance, or business. More importantly, ideal candidates will have significant and progressive experience working in finance roles. Hiring managers may look for someone with previous experience as a junior accountant, budget officer, or controller. It’s important that candidates for this role have leadership abilities as well as project management capabilities.

Tips to help you write your Accounting Manager resume in 2024

   become a cpa (certified public accountant).

The CPA is a credential given to licensed accounting professionals. Having this certification on your resume will show hiring managers you have completed at least 150 hours of accounting education and have a minimum of 2 years of professional accounting experience. Gaining a CPA is a great way to quickly show hiring managers you are knowledgeable.

   Demonstrate your ability to lead others

It’s crucial that the accounting manager is a strong leader as they will oversee junior finance staff who complete important tasks such as payroll, accounts receivable, billing, and more. You should showcase your ability to manage several team members with varying responsibilities on your resume.

Skills you can include on your Accounting Manager resume

Template 5 of 34: accounting manager resume example.

The accounting manager oversees and manages the accounting team. They determine goals, and policies, and delegate tasks to team members. Accounting managers ensure that the organization’s finances are at their best state by auditing their financial reports. Then they identify patterns that allow them to draw conclusions. This is a leadership position, so you should demonstrate your leadership and project management skills in your resume. You can mention previous experiences in which you managed a large team.

   Demonstrate your expertise in the accounting field.

As an accounting manager, you are expected to have several years of experience in the field, so it’s important to include all relevant project and job experience in accounting. This will demonstrate seniority and illustrate your value in the industry.

   Indicate that you are up-to-date with industry trends, such as new accounting software or techniques.

Accounting managers should be computer-literate and up-to-date with the latest trends in the industry. Some of the most used programs for accounting in 2023 include Oracle NetSuite Accounting Software, Intuit QuickBooks Online, Melio, and FreshBooks Accounting Software. It might be a good idea to research the company you're applying to by looking at the job description, find out what they're using, and including that exact stack of software on your resume.

Template 6 of 34: Accounting Manager Resume Example

Accounting managers oversee accounting departments, manage financial reporting, and lead their teams to success. To advance to a management position in accounting, you not only need to be a great accountant; you also need to demonstrate leadership and people skills. Make sure your resume reflects your experience in these areas.

   Promotions show proactivity and growth in accounting

Featuring past promotions on your resume tells hiring managers that you are an outstanding employee with the potential to excel. It takes proactivity and drive to rise through the ranks at any job, and those same qualities are essential when you’re seeking a leadership position.

   Cites specific, measurable achievements from past jobs

As a financial professional, you will be expected to produce results for your employers. Quantify your previous successes with specific numbers to show the impact you made at your old jobs. Prior achievements such as “recovered $2M in overstated expenses” or “consolidated sales over $10M” are a strong testament to your skills.

Template 7 of 34: Senior Accountant / Accounting Executive Resume Example

Writing a resume for a Senior Accountant or Accounting Executive role is an exercise in demonstrating expertise and leadership within the finance realm. It's essential to remember that these roles are often the backbone of the finance department, so your resume should reflect the depth and breadth of your experience. In recent times, companies increasingly value accountants who can leverage technological tools for efficiency and accuracy; your knowledge of accounting software should be a shining star on your resume. Furthermore, with the rise of remote work and globalization, Senior Accountants are expected to be comfortable managing virtual teams and handling International Financial Reporting Standards. Ensure to incorporate your experience or training in these areas too.

Tips to help you write your Senior Accountant / Accounting Executive resume in 2024

   highlight technical competency.

Due to the increasing reliance on technology within accounting, ensure that you dedicate space to your proficiency in diverse accounting software and tools. Mention your experience in QuickBooks, SAP, Oracle Financials, or any proprietary software you used.

   Showcase Leadership Skills

Senior roles require you to lead teams and communicate financial information to non-financial stakeholders. Highlight any instances of leading a project, automating a process, or explaining complex data to others in your work experience section.

Skills you can include on your Senior Accountant / Accounting Executive resume

Template 8 of 34: senior accountant / accounting executive resume example.

Senior accountants don’t always supervise other employees, but they are typically experienced professionals who have worked in accounting for a number of years. As a senior accountant, you’ll do some typical accounting tasks, but you’ll also do higher-level analyses of your company’s financial standing. Your resume should show your aptitude for data analysis and your ability to make complex business decisions that lead to positive outcomes.

   Skills section lists relevant accounting technical skills

In your years of accounting, you’ve probably gained experience with software such as QuickBook, Oracle, RSM Auditor Assistant, and others. You’re likely also familiar with concepts such as generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP), auditing, and financial analysis. Use a separate skills section to list technical and other hard skills you’ve acquired over the course of your career.

   Accounting-specific action verbs highlight past successes

Strong action verbs are an effective way to introduce achievements from your former jobs. Verbs like “conducted”, “automated”, and “implemented” all demonstrate proactivity, and they paint a clear picture of the role you played in each accomplishment.

Template 9 of 34: Entry Level Accountant Resume Example

Entry level accountants help with maintaining financial records, gathering data, and assembling basic reports. While you don’t need formal accounting experience for this job, it can help to have a bachelor’s degree in accounting, finance, or a similar field. Lead your resume with your educational experience, mentioning any relevant coursework (such as business law or microeconomics), and be sure to also mention any relevant internships you’ve held.

Tips to help you write your Entry Level Accountant resume in 2024

   emphasizes educational history.

At the beginning of your accounting career, you won’t have as much work experience to list on your resume -- so place more focus on your education, especially if you completed a degree in accounting and finance. A high GPA and any academic distinctions you’ve earned can show potential employers proof of your work ethic and dedication.

   Lists relevant internships and community projects

When you have less employment history under your belt, highlight any internships you’ve done in accounting or finance. These positions are valuable because they teach you similar skills to what you might learn in an accounting job. Volunteer projects where you’ve organized meetings, gathered donations, or developed other professional skills are also worth mentioning.

Skills you can include on your Entry Level Accountant resume

Template 10 of 34: staff accountant resume example.

Staff accountants keep track of and oversee all financial records in an organization, including balance sheets and cash flow, equity, and income statements. They must record transactions conduct the billing processes, and help stakeholders make more informed decisions regarding year budgets or new projects. That’s why you might want to highlight your business acumen on your resume by mentioning your impact on previous projects’ bottom line. A staff accountant can work in private, public, and non-profit institutions. Ideally, you should have a bachelor’s degree in finance, administration, or accounting.

Tips to help you write your Staff Accountant resume in 2024

   mention your familiarity with local and state staff accounting regulations..

One of your responsibilities as a staff accountant is to ensure the company is compliant with local and state regulations. You should guarantee that the accounting team is following the best practices to demonstrate transparency and accuracy in financial records.

   Highlight your financial analysis skills.

As a staff accountant, you should compare each year’s transactions to identify patterns in the data. This includes income, spending habits, and budgets. This way, you can help stakeholders make better financial decisions using data-backed insights.

Skills you can include on your Staff Accountant resume

Template 11 of 34: staff accountant resume example.

Staff accountants have a variety of duties that may include bookkeeping, processing payroll, preparing taxes, and generating financial reports and statements. They also help ensure compliance with local laws and regulations.

   Focuses on quantifiable achievements from past accounting jobs

When talking about your previous jobs, it’s wise to mention specific results that you achieved in each position so accounting hiring managers can see the extent of your capabilities. When you can say that you “reduced error rates by 20%” or “maintained monthly schedules of 30+ fixed assets”, you show that your actions and decisions had a measurable impact at past jobs.

   Leads accomplishments with action verbs

You should always lead your bullet-point achievements with precise action verbs such as “oversaw”, “maintained”, and “reconciled”. These types of verbs clearly illustrate what you accomplished at past jobs, and they help you position yourself as a skilled professional within your field. If you can choose verbs that are related to accounting and finance, do that!

Template 12 of 34: Cost Accountant Resume Example

Cost accountants analyze and assess the costs of producing products or services. They help businesses identify areas where they could become more profitable. In addition to the math and data analysis skills that most accountants need, cost accountants need strong budgeting skills and the ability to communicate effectively with management about their findings. Use your resume to highlight your accounting background and your skills at collaborating with others.

Tips to help you write your Cost Accountant resume in 2024

   promotions demonstrate a drive to succeed.

If you’ve advanced from less-senior positions to roles with more responsibility in the past, make sure to point out your promotions on your resume. Starting as an auditor and leveling up to a management accountant position demonstrates your financial acumen and tells recruiters that you are likely to thrive in a potential new role.

   Industry-specific action verbs show financial expertise

When you’re pursuing a job in accounting, use verbs specific to finance (such as “analyzed”, “audited”, and “managed”) throughout your resume to talk about your past accomplishments. These verbs are a great way to showcase your knowledge and experience within the financial industry.

Skills you can include on your Cost Accountant resume

Template 13 of 34: payroll accountant resume example.

Payroll accountants supervise and process payments. They are responsible for ensuring that payments are processed efficiently, on time, and following legal regulations. Additional responsibilities include calculating deductions, resolving salary conflicts, and generating salary statements for employees. Generally, payroll accountants have a bachelor’s degree in finance or administration. Keep in mind that it’s important to demonstrate your knowledge of relevant tax laws on your resume.

Tips to help you write your Payroll Accountant resume in 2024

   indicate you have extensive knowledge of payroll functions on your resume..

As a payroll accountant, you should demonstrate proficiency in payroll functions. This includes calculating wages, deductions, bonuses, and processing payments for each employee. That’s why you should include skills such as payroll processing, auditing, tax deduction, and financial reporting.

   Showcase the payroll software that you are familiar with in your resume.

There are numerous tools out there that help you automate payroll tasks. Some of the most popular ones include QuickBooks Payro, Gusto, and OnPay. However, you can mention any payroll tool that you are familiar with. It’s also a good idea to check your potential employer’s requirements to see if they have a particular program they use.

Skills you can include on your Payroll Accountant resume

Template 14 of 34: payroll accountant resume example.

Payroll accountants are responsible for processing companies’ employee compensation. Each pay period, they calculate each employee’s earnings, deduct the proper amounts for income tax and benefits, and issue paychecks. To get a payroll accountant position, use your resume to show that you have general accounting skills, experience using payroll software, and a working knowledge of labor and tax regulations.

   Prominent skills section for hard accounting skills

Payroll accounting requires some specialized knowledge. You’ll need to know your local labor and tax laws to ensure your company is in compliance. You may also use software such as ADP Payroll to process your company’s payroll. A resume skills section allows you to list your job-specific hard skills in a place where they’ll be easy to see.

   Resume is tailored to the specific payroll-related job

Always target your resume to the job you’re applying for. Adding the job title “Payroll Accountant” near the top of the document can help your resume get through automated tracking systems (ATS) and other resume screening tools. Make your resume even more relevant to the position by adding accounting keywords throughout your work experience and skills (“payroll”, “processing”, and “reporting” are just a few of many examples).

Template 15 of 34: Accounting Assistant Resume Example

Being an accounting assistant requires a particular set of skills. You're often the backbone of the accounting department, handling data entry, invoice processing, and overall financial record keeping. The job requires meticulous attention to detail, great numerical skills, and often, a good handle on certain software like Quickbooks or Excel. Lately, due to increased digitalization, many accounting assistant roles may also require familiarity with cloud-based tools and software. As you craft your resume, remember that hiring managers are keen to see your technical skills, your ability to work with a team, and examples of how you've added value in past roles, such as improving processes or saving company resources. Specificity is key, so provide quantifiable achievements whenever possible.

Tips to help you write your Accounting Assistant resume in 2024

   highlight software proficiency.

As an accounting assistant, you'll likely be using a variety of accounting and data management software. Specify which programs you're familiar with, like QuickBooks, MS Excel, or any other cloud-based accounting tools, as this can be a key deciding factor for hiring managers.

   Detail achievements with numbers

When drafting the experience section, don't just list your routine tasks. Instead, highlight achievements and improvements you've brought about, ideally using specific numbers. For example, "Implemented a new data entry method that improved efficiency by 20%".

Skills you can include on your Accounting Assistant resume

Template 16 of 34: accounting assistant resume example.

In an accounting assistant role, you’ll be doing basic accounting tasks such as record keeping, cash handling, and billing to help support your company. You may be able to get this job straight out of school, but some companies may require a few years of accounting experience. Use a resume like this one to showcase the experience you do have, giving specific examples of achievements that illustrate your organizational, analytical, and problem-solving skills.

   Resume is focused on the specific accounting position

Recruiters like to see consistency in resumes, and if you have a lengthy work history within a specific role, you’ll be a desirable candidate for that position. Having held previous accounting assistant positions (including ones of increasing seniority), you’ll have gained many relevant and transferable skills for your new job.

   Relevant educational history is included

Most companies want to hire accounting assistants who at least hold a bachelor’s degree in a relevant subject area (such as applied business, accounting, or finance). Be sure to mention your finance-related educational background and credentials on your resume.

Template 17 of 34: Tax Accountant Resume Example

As a Tax Accountant, your resume should show that you're more than just an individual who crunches numbers. Your expertise in complex tax law, vast knowledge about regulations and meticulous nature are important. These days, companies are becoming more and more aware of the importance of abiding by tax laws. They want accountants who are informed and up-to-date with these regulations, both federal and state. Keep in mind, your resume is the first opportunity to showcase these skills to potential employers. Recently, there's been a shift towards valuing soft skills like communication and problem-solving in the Tax Accountant role. It's not enough to just be good with numbers, you should also be able to explain complex tax concepts to non-tax professionals. When writing your resume, it's crucial to demonstrate both technical expertise and these soft skills.

Tips to help you write your Tax Accountant resume in 2024

   include relevant certifications.

Next to your formal education, make sure you include any additional certifications like the Certified Public Accountant (CPA) or the Chartered Tax Advisor (CTA). These qualifications not only confirm your competence in tax law and regulations, but also display your commitment to the accounting field.

   Showcase your problem-solving skills

Don't just list your roles and responsibilities, but illustrate how you've used your skills to solve real tax issues. Maybe you identified a tax-saving opportunity for your previous employer or assisted in a difficult audit. Concrete examples will make your resume stand out.

Skills you can include on your Tax Accountant resume

Template 18 of 34: tax accountant resume example.

A tax accountant specializes in preparing and filing tax forms for businesses and individuals. These accountants must stay abreast of current tax regulations to help their clients comply with the law. You’ll need specialized knowledge in order to become a tax accountant -- so if you have experience in tax accounting, auditing, or tax preparation, make sure to say so on your resume.

   Skills section highlights specialized tax and accounting knowledge

To become a tax accountant, you’ll need additional training in tax law and preparation beyond what is standard for your industry. Once you’ve acquired these hard skills, list them prominently in your resume skills section.

   Discuss past achievements using specific numbers related to accounting

All types of accountants usually produce tangible results for the companies they work for. Instead of providing vague statements about what you did at past jobs, mention past achievements using specific numbers to measure the scope of what you accomplished (e.g. “resolved over 100 tax issues” or “reduced tax penalty fees by 20%”).

Template 19 of 34: Accounting Specialist Resume Example

As an Accounting Specialist, you're often perceived as the 'financial lifeline' of a company. Your role requires you to masterfully balance numbers and ensure that the financial health of the company is spot on. It's a job that's all about precision and accuracy, and it's gaining more importance as companies evolve in this technology-driven era. With this trend, employers are increasingly looking for people who can navigate not only the traditional accounting tasks but also new age financial software and systems. Therefore, when crafting your resume, it's crucial to convey your in-depth knowledge in accounting principles, alongside your proficiency in financial software. In recent times, companies have been advocating for automation in accounting, aiming to reduce errors and increase efficiency. Not to forget, the accounting field is also adopting machine learning and artificial intelligence to streamline processes. As such, candidates who can demonstrate their adaptability to these evolving trends will have an edge. Your resume should highlight your willingness to learn and adapt, while also showcasing your expertise in the core accounting tasks.

Tips to help you write your Accounting Specialist resume in 2024

   highlight your technology proficiency.

As an Accounting Specialist, you must emphasize your familiarity with accounting software like QuickBooks, Excel, or any other specific tools you've mastered. Mention any special certifications you have in these tools as it would demonstrate your initiative and proficiency.

   Show Evidence of Your Accuracy and Precision

Accounting is all about accuracy and precision. Ensure to highlight any accomplishments or roles where you've demonstrated these qualities. Use specific numbers or statistics as evidence. For example, you could mention the percentage of accuracy achieved in your previous role or any error reduction initiatives you've spearheaded.

Skills you can include on your Accounting Specialist resume

Template 20 of 34: accounting specialist resume example.

Accounting specialists may have wide ranging responsibilities such as maintaining financial records, processing payroll, generating reports, and making projections. To get this job, focus your resume on accounting skills such as balancing budget sheets, processing invoices, or managing account transfers.

   Uses effective action verbs to talk about achievements

When writing your resume bullet points, consider leading with verbs such as “conducted”, “streamlined”, and “spearheaded” to underscore the impact of your successes. Verbs like these ones show that you are proactive and take your career seriously.

   Relevant technical skills in skills section

As an accounting specialist, you may need to use certain types of software in your daily duties. Create a dedicated skills section on your resume where you can list the programs you’re proficient with, such as Microsoft Access, QuickBooks, or NetSuite ERP.

Template 21 of 34: Junior Accountant Resume Example

This is an entry-level position and you will be working under the supervision of a manager or senior accountant. Tasks you can expect include preparing financial reports, handling payroll, creating and updating financial statements, etc. Your resume must show recruiters your skills in accounting as well as a strong accounting background, Take a look at this resume sample.

Tips to help you write your Junior Accountant resume in 2024

   include accounting-related certifications..

Impress recruiters by listing any accounting certifications you may have gotten. Internationally recognized certifications like a CPA would be particularly impressive, and in some cases required.

   Focus your skills section on accounting-related skills and tools.

Just by taking a look at your skills section, recruiters should be able to tell what you are capable of as an accountant. So make sure you include all industry-standard accounting tools, and mention your experience and skills in all the main tasks in accounting.

Skills you can include on your Junior Accountant resume

Template 22 of 34: project accountant resume example.

As the name suggests, as a project accountant you will be responsible for handling and monitoring the finances of a project. You will approve payments, analyze expenses, and ensure that the project progresses as intended and within the allocated budget. Recruiters will want to see a strong educational background in accounting and will be looking to see experience in accounting and more specifically in project accounting. If you have experience doing accounting in the same industry as the recruiting company, all the better. Take a look at this successful resume sample.

Tips to help you write your Project Accountant resume in 2024

   show a variety of accounting skills in the skills section..

Because you will be in charge of the accounting for a project, you will have a variety of accounting tasks to complete. Show that you are capable of completing all expected tasks by ensuring your skills section lists the various tasks.

   Indicate the financial size of the projects you have worked on.

Give recruiters an idea of what you are capable of handling by adding figures of the financial size of the projects you have worked with. This applicant had worked on a project worth $22M.

Skills you can include on your Project Accountant resume

Template 23 of 34: public accountant resume example.

A public accountant is similar to a freelancer or contractor. You do not work as a full-time employee of one company but you instead offer your services to many companies or individuals. You may be preparing their returns, doing a forensic analysis of their books, or even just giving relevant advice. Your qualifications are of great importance for this title, so ensure they are clearly shown. Above that, individuals and companies will be looking to see the experience you have had doing the kind of tasks they need to be done, so ensure that your experience section reflects all your capabilities.

Tips to help you write your Public Accountant resume in 2024

   indicate the kind of clients you generally work with..

Huge corporations may need very different accounting services than individuals or small businesses. It is therefore very important to indicate who your clients have been so far so potential clients can get an idea of how much experience you have in the tasks they need to be done.

   Use metrics to highlight your achievements.

Metrics are an easy way to quantify your achievements and impress potential clients. So include metrics like how many clients you had, how much much money you saved them, etc.

Skills you can include on your Public Accountant resume

Template 24 of 34: fund accountant resume example.

Fund accountants perform everyday accounting functions for a fund. These functions might include valuing net assets, balancing the books, providing vetted and accurate statements, etc. Apart from these general accounting tasks, you might also be tasked with analyzing financial metrics in the industry to help firms accurately value their funds.

Tips to help you write your Fund Accountant resume in 2024

   show a history in the financial sector..

Because this position is in the financial sector, clients would prefer to hire someone with a long history doing accounting tasks for firms in the financial sector. So make sure your experience section concentrates on your financial sector past jobs.

   Write ‘Fund Accountant’ in your title to bypass ATS.

Most recruiters use ATS resume filters, so you must clearly state your title to help you bypass these filters. Writing ‘Accountant’ only for your title may not be enough to get you through. Be specific.

Skills you can include on your Fund Accountant resume

Template 25 of 34: senior tax accountant resume example.

As the name suggests, this is an experienced tax accountant. Tasks you can expect include preparing all tax documentation, training junior tax accountants, and ensuring your client remains tax compliant. Recruiters expect to see a resume that shows at least 5 years of experience and a strong accounting background. Evidence of managerial or leader experience would be an extra benefit. Here is a recruiter-approved resume sample.

Tips to help you write your Senior Tax Accountant resume in 2024

   get certified as a tax professional..

Accounting certifications are always nice, but for this position, you should aim to get tax-specific accounting certifications. It will set you apart from all the more generic accountants you are competing with and will show recruiters that you are highly skilled and passionate about the field.

   Include tax-specific keywords.

Using job-specific keywords in your resume may help you bypass ATS resume filters put in place. So use keywords relevant to tax accounting like ‘IRS’, ‘corporate tex’, and ‘compliance’.

Skills you can include on your Senior Tax Accountant resume

Template 26 of 34: property accountant resume example.

This accountant handles the financial documents associated with real estate. You may assist in valuing properties, preparing financial reports, or figuring out your client's tax obligations and preparing the correct documentation. Recruiters will be looking to see if your resume indicates expert knowledge in real estate and the accounting and tax processes and obligations associated with real estate. Ensure that your experience in this industry is well-highlighted. Take a look at this strong resume sample.

Tips to help you write your Property Accountant resume in 2024

   include property-specific skills in your skills section..

Accounting largely requires the same basic skills regardless of the industry you are working in. But if you are a specialized accountant as this title positions you to be, ensure that your skills section indicates skills in this particular industry. Skills like ‘property accounting’ and ‘property management’ would be effective.

   Get property-specific certification.

Show recruiters that you are particularly skilled and knowledgeable in property accounting by getting certified. This applicant’s certification in property management is a good example of a certification that would give an applicant an edge.

Skills you can include on your Property Accountant resume

Template 27 of 34: experienced accountant resume example.

An experienced accountant, sometimes called a senior accountant, is a professional who has worked successfully in the field for many years (at least 5). Your tasks may be the same as more junior accountants but you may be tasked with the most important and central accounting functions. This position requires accuracy, interpersonal skills, and a strong accounting skill set. Here is a successful resume sample.

Tips to help you write your Experienced Accountant resume in 2024

   list your expertise on various functions in the introduction section..

Start your resume strong by including the accounting functions you are particularly skilled at, and include a key achievement that shows the outcome of your skills. Starting your resume off strong will help your resume look more impressive overall.

   Use metrics to quantify your accounting success.

Metrics jump out among the text in a resume and are an easy way to impress recruiters. A great accountant will work to maintain the financial health of the company, increase efficiencies, and reduce costs. If you have done any of the 3, include metrics to prove them.

Skills you can include on your Experienced Accountant resume

Template 28 of 34: construction accountant resume example.

Construction accountants have the same functions as project accountants, except they operate solely on construction projects. Tasks you can expect include planning budgets, updating financial records, approving payments to suppliers, etc. You are basically in charge of ensuring that the budget allocated is used as it was intended. Extensive knowledge about the workings of the construction business is expected, as is experience being an accountant for projects. Take a look at this recruiter-approved resume sample.

Tips to help you write your Construction Accountant resume in 2024

   use strong action verbs that indicate a variety of experiences..

Action verbs can be really powerful in shaping your experience. Use strong and varied action verbs like ‘supervised’ and ‘analyzed’ to show recruiters that you can perform a variety of accountant functions.

   Write ‘Construction Accountant’ in your title to bypass ATS.

Most recruiters use ATS resume filters, so you must clearly state your title to help you bypass these filters. Writing ‘Accountant’ only for your title may not be enough to get you through. Be industry-specific.

Skills you can include on your Construction Accountant resume

Template 29 of 34: fixed asset accountant resume example.

As the name suggests, you will be in charge of accounting tasks related to fixed assets. Tasks you can expect include valuing, recording, and even identifying fixed assets. You will also be responsible for providing financial reports to decision-makers, and doing other general accounting tasks. You must have an in-depth knowledge of fixed assets and must be a talented accountant. Your resume should show your strength in both. Here is a resume sample that does that effectively.

Tips to help you write your Fixed Asset Accountant resume in 2024

   show career progression through promotions..

Show recruiters that you are a hardworking and successful employee by showing promotions in your career. It will also show recruiters your dedication to your profession. This applicant started as an audit intern and moved their way up to a fixed asset accountant position.

   Include the skills level for skills you are excellent at.

An easy way to impress recruiters and also show them your strengths is by including proficiencies for some of your skills. This applicant has listed ‘advanced’ for some skills and ‘experienced’ for others.

Skills you can include on your Fixed Asset Accountant resume

Template 30 of 34: corporate accountant resume example.

In this position, you will specialize in accounting for a business or company. Your tasks may include preparing financial documents, maintaining good financial records, preparing tax documents, and ensuring that the business is compliant with all relevant financial or tax regulations and laws. You need to show that you are experienced working in this type of accounting. Ensure both the experience and skills sections of your resume show that. Here is a good resume sample.

Tips to help you write your Corporate Accountant resume in 2024

   highlight your accountant certifications and qualifications..

Because of the large budgets and complicated accounting processes attributed to corporations, your formal qualifications are particularly important and in many cases required. So ensure you highlight your internationally recognized certification like your CPA.

   Write ‘Corporate Accountant’ in your title to bypass ATS.

Skills you can include on your Corporate Accountant resume

Template 31 of 34: revenue accountant resume example.

A revenue accountant is in charge of monitoring a company’s incoming revenue. You will create invoices, track payments, update transaction records, and ensure that all incoming revenue is accounted for. You need to have a strong understanding of the company and its processes concerning revenue. You also need to show a strong accounting background to attract recruiters. Here is a recruiter-approved resume sample.

Tips to help you write your Revenue Accountant resume in 2024

   concentrate on revenue-related experience..

You want to show that you are an all-rounded accountant but you need to show that you have a wealth of experience doing revenue-related accounting tasks, so focus on highlighting those.

   Highlight revenue accounting technical skills.

Your skills section is small and should include the skills most relevant to the job position. So ensure that your skills section focuses on revenue accounting skills like revenue recognition.

Skills you can include on your Revenue Accountant resume

Template 32 of 34: chief accounting officer resume example.

As the CAO you are in charge of the entire accounting department and its operations. Tasks you can expect include compiling financial reports, overseeing payroll, Analyzing and developing budgets and other accounting goals, etc. Most companies will expect you to have a master’s degree in accounting or a related field and you will need to have at least 5 years of experience. Most companies will also ask for a CPA certification so make sure your certifications are clearly listed on your resume. Here is a successful resume sample.

Tips to help you write your Chief Accounting Officer resume in 2024

Show recruiters your upward progression in your career. It will show recruiters your dedication to your profession and give them a better idea of the relevant skills you have gained along the way. This applicant started as a financial controller and moved their way up to a CAO position.

   Include any accounting-related certification.

Apart from the expected CPA certification, include any other certifications you have gained related to accounting or management. It will give recruiters a better idea of your specializations or your styles of management. This applicant has an internal auditor certification which indicates their accounting specialization and could have listed an Agile certification which would have indicated their management ideology.

Skills you can include on your Chief Accounting Officer resume

Template 33 of 34: director of accounting resume example.

A Director of Accounting role is about leading the finance team and making high-impact decisions, but remember, it's not all about numbers. It's how you articulate your strategic mindset to transform raw data into actionable insights in your resume that sets you apart. Recently, there's been a trend towards placing a higher value on those who can demonstrate their ability to implement new technologies, such as AI or blockchain, to streamline financial operations. Writing a resume for this position is more than just listing your achievements. It's about showcasing your leadership style, your ability to influence others and the strategic thinking behind your decisions. To truly stand out, you need to capture your holistic view of a company's financial health and how you've driven companies to thrive, not just survive.

Tips to help you write your Director of Accounting resume in 2024

   show your experiential proficiency with financial technology.

Showcase your experience with modern financial tools, ERP systems, or even AI-powered accounting software. Demonstrate how you've used these technologies to increase efficiency or accuracy in your previous roles. This will show that you're forward-thinking and readily adapt to technological advancements.

   Exhibit your strategic financial planning skills

In the Director of Accounting role, it's essential to look beyond the numbers. Hence, you need to include instances where you've developed strategic financial plans which successfully drove company growth. Show how you've worked with different departments to achieve these financial goals.

Skills you can include on your Director of Accounting resume

Template 34 of 34: director of accounting resume example.

A director of accounting is a senior, experienced accounting professional. They will lead the way in financial reporting, international exchanges, intercompany transactions, and audits. They may also be tasked with optimizing internal controls, preparing detailed financial reports for investors, and more. This position oversees direct reports in the accounting department making managerial skills also important. When looking for a director of accounting, hiring managers will be looking for someone with at least a Bachelor's degree in accounting or finance, though a Master’s degree may give a candidate a competitive edge. Hiring managers will want a candidate with 5+ years of progressive professional accounting experience. Having accounting specific certifications will also be desirable to hiring managers.

   Obtain a CMA or CPA credential

Certifications show hiring managers you have studied and been tested on core aspects of accounting and financial management. Obtaining your CPA (Certified Public Accountant) or CMA (Certified Managerial Accountant) credential can show employers you’re well-versed in accounting principles.

   Show your experience managing teams in a financial setting

As a director of accounting, you’ll be expected to lead junior accountants in daily processes and operations. To land this role, it’s wise to show you have the leadership skills to do this. If you’ve previously overseen a team, or led your team in accounting projects or overhauling processes, it’s wise to detail your success with it in your resume.

As a hiring manager who has recruited accountants at top companies like PwC, Deloitte, and KPMG, I've seen countless resumes over the years. The best ones always stand out by showcasing the candidate's skills, experience, and achievements in a clear and compelling way. In this article, we'll share some tips to help you create a strong accountant resume that will catch the attention of hiring managers and increase your chances of landing an interview.

   Highlight your accounting certifications and education

Make sure to prominently feature your accounting certifications, such as CPA, CMA, or CIA, as well as your educational background in accounting or a related field. Here are some examples:

• Certified Public Accountant (CPA), [State], [Year]
• Master of Science in Accounting, [University Name], [Graduation Year]
• Bachelor of Science in Accounting, [University Name], [Graduation Year]

Avoid simply listing your certifications or degrees without providing context:

   Emphasize your experience with accounting software and tools

Highlight your proficiency with commonly used accounting software and tools, such as:

• Microsoft Excel (including advanced functions like VLOOKUP and Pivot Tables)
• Oracle NetSuite

Provide specific examples of how you've used these tools to improve processes or solve problems in your previous roles. For instance:

Implemented a new invoicing system using QuickBooks, reducing payment processing time by 30% and improving cash flow.

   Quantify your achievements with metrics and data

Use numbers and percentages to quantify your accomplishments and show the impact of your work. Here are some examples:

• Reduced accounts receivable aging by 25% through proactive collection efforts and improved invoicing processes
• Identified and corrected errors in financial statements, saving the company $50,000 in potential penalties
• Managed a team of 5 accountants, overseeing the preparation of monthly and quarterly financial reports for 20+ clients

Avoid using vague or generic statements that don't provide any context, like:

• Responsible for accounts receivable
• Prepared financial statements
• Managed a team of accountants

   Tailor your resume to the specific job description

Customize your resume for each job application by highlighting the skills and experiences that are most relevant to the position. For example, if the job description emphasizes experience with tax accounting, make sure to focus on your tax-related projects and achievements.

Here's an example of a tailored bullet point:

• Prepared and filed federal and state income tax returns for individuals and small businesses, ensuring compliance with tax laws and regulations

Avoid using a generic resume that doesn't address the specific requirements of the job, like:

• Assisted with various accounting tasks

   Showcase your problem-solving skills with specific examples

Demonstrate your ability to analyze financial data, identify issues, and recommend solutions by providing concrete examples from your previous experience. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your examples.

Situation: Noticed discrepancies in the company's financial statements during month-end close Task: Investigate the source of the discrepancies and recommend corrective actions Action: Analyzed financial data, traced transactions, and identified a systemic issue with the revenue recognition process Result: Implemented a new revenue recognition policy, ensuring accurate financial reporting and compliance with GAAP

Avoid simply stating that you have strong problem-solving skills without providing any evidence to support your claim.

   Include relevant volunteer experience or professional affiliations

If you have volunteered in a financial capacity or are a member of professional accounting organizations, include this information on your resume. It can demonstrate your commitment to the field and provide additional evidence of your skills and experience.

For example:

• Volunteer Treasurer, [Non-Profit Organization], [Dates]
• Member, American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA), [Dates]

However, avoid listing memberships or volunteer experiences that are not directly relevant to accounting or finance, as they may distract from your core qualifications.

Ready to start preparing your accounting resume? Keep these tips in mind as you write to maximize your chances of getting the job you want.

   Make sure to include relevant education and certifications

Most companies today want prospective accountants to have at least a bachelor’s degree in accounting or another finance-specific area. Accounting jobs are growing more competitive, so having an educational background in accounting might give you the edge you need to get hired. Although not all accounting positions require you to have additional certifications (such as CPA, CFA, and others), acquiring these will add to your training and help you advance to more senior roles. Don’t skip including your accounting-related education and credentials on your resume.

   Create a skills section to list your hard and technical accounting skills

Accounting professionals should be familiar with generally accepted accounting practices, relevant laws, and business concepts. They may have specialized knowledge of tax, auditing, financial analysis, or other areas. Often, accountants need to be comfortable using software like QuickBooks or NetSuite ERS. Because there are so many hard skills associated with accounting, it’s smart to create a section in your resume to showcase these abilities. Note that your skills section is ideal for listing hard and technical skills only; it’s better to illustrate soft skills like communication or teamwork through examples in your work experience section.

   Target your resume to the specific role you’re applying for

Be sure to tailor your resume to the particular accounting position you want. Whether you’re hoping to become a tax accountant or accounting manager, your resume should mention the specific job title you’re applying for. Focus on your most relevant work experience and skills, and add accounting and finance-related keywords (such as “payroll”, “tax”, “reconciliation”, and others) wherever possible. Adding keywords and tailoring your work history to the position is beneficial for several reasons. First, it shows recruiters that you are interested in the specific job they’re offering -- a much better strategy than firing off generic resumes to dozens of hiring managers. And second, a tailored resume with relevant keywords is more likely to get through automated resume-filtering systems (such as ATS) that employers commonly use.

Writing Your Accountant Resume: Section By Section

  header, 1. include your name, email, and phone number.

Your header should prominently feature your full name at the top, followed by your email address and phone number. Make sure to use a professional email address that includes your name, rather than a casual or outdated one.

Here's an example of a well-formatted header for an accountant resume:

• John Smith, CPA
• [email protected] | 555-123-4567

Avoid cluttering your header with unnecessary details like:

• John Smith, CPA, MBA, EA
• 123 Main St, Anytown USA 12345
• [email protected]

2. Highlight your accounting credentials

If you have earned a CPA license or other relevant accounting certifications, be sure to include them after your name in your header. This immediately conveys your expertise and qualifications to employers.

• Jane Doe, CPA
• Bob Johnson, CMA, CFE

However, avoid listing all of your credentials if you have many. Focus on the most impressive and relevant ones for the specific accounting role. For example:

Sarah Lee, CPA, CIA, CFE, EA, CGMA, CISA, MBA

3. Consider including your LinkedIn profile URL

In today's digital age, many employers will look up candidates on LinkedIn. You can make it easy for them by including a link to your LinkedIn profile in your resume header.

• linkedin.com/in/john-smith-cpa

Just be sure your LinkedIn profile is up-to-date and presents you in a professional light before linking to it. Avoid linking to a bare-bones profile, or one that has discrepancies from your resume.

  Summary

A resume summary is an optional section that provides a brief overview of your qualifications, experience, and career goals. While it's not a required component of a resume, it can be a valuable addition for experienced accountants or those seeking a career change. A well-crafted summary can quickly capture the attention of hiring managers and showcase your most relevant skills and achievements.

However, it's important to note that you should never use an objective statement in place of a summary. Objective statements are outdated and focus on what you want from an employer, rather than what you can offer them. Instead, use your summary to highlight your unique value proposition and demonstrate how you can contribute to the organization's success.

To learn how to write an effective resume summary for your Accountant resume, or figure out if you need one, please read Accountant Resume Summary Examples , or Accountant Resume Objective Examples .

1. Tailor your summary to the specific accounting role

When writing your summary, it's crucial to align your qualifications with the requirements of the specific accounting position you're targeting. Research the company and the job description to identify the key skills, certifications, and experience they're seeking.

For instance, if you're applying for a tax accountant role, your summary might look like this:

CPA with 5+ years of experience in corporate tax accounting. Skilled in preparing and filing federal and state tax returns, identifying tax savings opportunities, and ensuring compliance with tax laws and regulations. Proven track record of successfully managing multiple client accounts and delivering timely and accurate results.

On the other hand, a generic summary that fails to address the specific requirements of the role might read:

Experienced accountant with a strong work ethic and attention to detail. Proficient in various accounting software and able to handle multiple tasks simultaneously. Seeking a challenging position in a dynamic organization.

2. Highlight your most relevant skills and achievements

Your summary should showcase your most impressive and relevant accomplishments, skills, and qualifications. Focus on the aspects of your background that directly relate to the accounting position you're seeking and demonstrate your ability to excel in the role.

When highlighting your skills and achievements, be specific and quantify your results whenever possible. For example:

• Managed accounts payable and receivable for a $10M company, ensuring 98% on-time payment and reducing outstanding receivables by 25%
• Implemented a new financial reporting system that streamlined processes and reduced month-end close time by 40%

Avoid using vague or generic statements that don't provide concrete evidence of your abilities, such as:

• Experienced in various accounting functions
• Strong problem-solving skills

  Experience

Your work experience section is the core of your resume. It's where you have the chance to showcase your career trajectory, key accomplishments, and the impact you've made at previous companies. In this section, we'll break down step-by-step what you should include and how to write about your experience to impress hiring managers.

1. Highlight your accounting specialization

As an accountant, you likely have experience in a specific area of accounting, such as tax accounting, auditing, or financial accounting. Make sure to highlight your specialization in your work experience section.

Here are a few examples of how to showcase your accounting specialization:

• Managed tax accounting for a portfolio of 50+ clients, ensuring compliance with federal and state tax laws
• Conducted financial audits for public and private companies, identifying areas of risk and providing recommendations for improvement
• Prepared and analyzed financial statements for a $50M company, providing insights to senior management

2. Quantify your impact with metrics

Numbers are a powerful way to demonstrate your impact and value to a company. Use metrics to quantify your accomplishments whenever possible.

Here are some examples of how to use metrics in your work experience section:

• Reduced accounts receivable by 30% by implementing a new collections process
• Identified and corrected errors in financial statements, saving the company $100,000 in potential fines
• Managed a team of 5 accountants to complete month-end close process in 3 days, a 50% reduction from previous timeline

Avoid using vague statements like this that don't quantify your impact:

• Assisted with financial statement preparation

3. Showcase your progression and promotions

Hiring managers love to see candidates who have progressed and been promoted within their previous companies. It shows that you were a valued employee and were able to take on increasing levels of responsibility.

Here's an example of how to showcase your progression:

Senior Accountant, XYZ Company, New York, NY (2018-Present) - Promoted to Senior Accountant after 2 years as a Staff Accountant - Manage a team of 3 junior accountants to complete financial reporting and analysis - Prepare and review complex tax returns for high-net-worth individuals Staff Accountant, XYZ Company, New York, NY (2016-2018) - Assisted with preparation of monthly financial statements - Reconciled bank statements and credit card accounts - Prepared individual and business tax returns

4. Highlight relevant tools and technologies

Accounting roles often require proficiency in specific software or tools. Highlight your experience with these tools in your work experience section to show hiring managers that you have the necessary skills for the job.

Some common tools and technologies for accountants include:

• Microsoft Excel

Here are a couple examples of how to incorporate these tools into your work experience:

• Managed financial reporting using Oracle NetSuite ERP system
• Created complex financial models and forecasts using Microsoft Excel

  Education

Your education section shows hiring managers that you have the necessary knowledge and training for the accountant role. It also gives them a sense of your career trajectory and goals. Here are some tips for crafting a strong education section on your accountant resume.

1. Put your education section near the top if you're a recent grad

If you graduated within the last few years, your education is likely your strongest qualification for the job. In this case, put your education section above your work experience.

Include any relevant coursework, academic achievements, or extracurricular activities that show your accounting skills:

• Bachelor of Science in Accounting, XYZ University, 2020
• Relevant Coursework: Financial Accounting, Managerial Accounting, Auditing, Taxation
• GPA: 3.8/4.0
• Treasurer, Accounting Students Association

2. Keep your education section brief if you're an experienced accountant

If you have several years of accounting experience, your work history is more important than your education. Keep your education section short and to the point.

Bad example:

• Bachelor of Science in Accounting, XYZ University, 1995-1999
• Relevant Coursework: Financial Accounting, Managerial Accounting, Auditing, Taxation, Business Law, Economics, Statistics
• GPA: 3.6/4.0
• Accounting Club Member

Good example:

• Bachelor of Science in Accounting, XYZ University
• CPA, ABC State Board of Accountancy

3. Include your CPA license and other relevant certifications

Many accountant jobs require or prefer candidates with a CPA (Certified Public Accountant) license. If you have your CPA, make sure to include it in your education section.

You can also include other relevant certifications, such as:

• CMA (Certified Management Accountant)
• CIA (Certified Internal Auditor)
• CFE (Certified Fraud Examiner)
• EA (Enrolled Agent)

Education Bachelor of Science in Accounting, XYZ University CPA, ABC State Board of Accountancy CMA, Institute of Management Accountants

Action Verbs For Accountant Resumes

When discussing your accounting experience on your resume, you’ll want to lead into your achievements with strong action verbs. Choose the clearest, most concise word to express the role you played in your accomplishment. Active, specific verbs like “managed” or “developed” are always a stronger choice than vague phrases like “assisted with” or “was responsible for”. Finally, remember that finance comes with its own specialized “language” and vocabulary. As much as possible, pick verbs that are industry-specific to convey your expertise.

• Administered
• Restructured

For a full list of effective resume action verbs, visit Resume Action Verbs .

Action Verbs for Accountant Resumes

How to write an accountant resume.

Here we take you through the process of creating a resume for an accountant position. These steps will help you whether you are applying for an entry-level or senior accounting position.

Start by completing the essentials on any Accounting resume

1.1: your resume header should capture your key information..

A resume header is one of the first things that many recruiters see, and so it should include essential details like your name, location (your full address is not required), and your email address. You can optionally include the job title of the job you are applying for - especially if you're making a career change into accounting.

1.2: Use conventional resume section titles

In general, your resume will have at least 3 core sections: Experience, Education, and Skills. Make sure you have a clear section title for each section. If you have a lot of experience outside of accounting, you might find it useful to create a separate section for those called "Other Experience", while creating a dedicated section for accounting called "Accounting Experience" or "Relevant Experience."

Demonstrate your experience as an Accountant using bullet points

2.1: highlight relevant achievements using bullet points..

Bullet points make resumes easy to skim through for the hiring managers who are actually going to read your resume. Plus, they're also the most conventional resume format and is what hiring managers expect to see. Remember to always focus your bullet points on clear achievements, ideally involving accounting with things like accounts reconciliation or bookkeeping. For example: Identified discrepancies in reports totaling $125,000, resulting in crediting money back to the direct group This is a good example of a bullet point to use in your accounting resume.

2.2: Emphasize your attention to detail by using action verbs

Use strong action verbs to demonstrate your achievements as an accountant. Strong action verbs like "analyzed," "audited," "calculated," and "computed" show that you were tasked with accounting-related responsibilities and highlight your attention to detail - an important skill set recruiters want to see through your bullet points.

2.3: Emphasize your accomplishments.

Avoid things that fit more into a job description, like "I was tasked with keeping books." Instead, focus on achievements by saying something like, " Reduced the company's tax penalties by 10% in just one financial year as a tax accountant."

Optimize your skills to make them easier for an Applicant Tracking System to pick out

3.1: tailor your resume to the specific accounting job posting..

Tailoring your resume to suit the specific accounting job ensures the Applicant Tracking System finds it relevant to the job posting. For example, if applying for a Payroll Accountant position, your resume should show you have skills in payroll administration, payroll processing, and ADP payroll.

3.2: Include relevant keywords in the skills section.

Ensure you include skills relevant to the accounting job you are applying for in the skills sections, as these are the keywords the ATS system will look for as it scans the resume. For example, if applying for a tax accountant position, include keywords like "tax" and "reporting."

Polish up your Accountant resume

4.1: add a summary section if you are applying for a senior accountant position..

A summary is optional, but it is good to have it at the top of your resume if applying for a senior accountant position or switching careers to an accountant role. Summaries provide an easy way to direct the hiring manager to particular achievements that don't have space on other parts of your resume.

4.2: Include relevant certifications.

If you have any relevant certifications, honors, or awards related to your accounting profession, including them is a good idea. For example, you can include your CFA, CPA, or CMA certifications even if the job advertisement does not require you to have them.

Skills For Accountant Resumes

Many people think of accounting as a data-centric job -- and it is. You do need to have excellent math and data analysis skills because you’ll spend much of your time working with numbers. However, there is also a collaborative aspect to being an accountant; you’ll probably work in teams with others, and in some roles, you’ll give presentations and reports to management that will help guide their financial decision-making. Being a great accountant requires a blend of technical and people skills. So give plenty of examples from your prior work experiences where you’ve developed and used these abilities. Talk about how you’ve successfully managed expenses, conducted account analyses, and worked on project teams. Make sure to also list your software proficiencies (such as QuickBooks and Oracle) and other hard skills in a separate skills section.

• Accounts Receivable (AR)
• Account Reconciliation
• Accounts Payable
• General Ledger
• Journal Entries
• Bank Reconciliation
• Financial Reporting
• Financial Statements
• Financial Accounting
• Financial Analysis
• Accounts Payable & Receivable
• Cash Collection

How To Write Your Skills Section On an Accountant Resumes

You can include the above skills in a dedicated Skills section on your resume, or weave them in your experience. Here's how you might create your dedicated skills section:

Skills Word Cloud For Accountant Resumes

This word cloud highlights the important keywords that appear on Accountant job descriptions and resumes. The bigger the word, the more frequently it appears on job postings, and the more 'important' it is.

How to use these skills?

Resume bullet points from accountant resumes.

You should use bullet points to describe your achievements in your Accountant resume. Here are sample bullet points to help you get started:

Collaborated with 10 department managers and peers to develop and implement policies and procedures that increased internal efficiency by 20%.

Provided excellent customer service, effectively reducing customer complaints from 65% to 23% within the first 8 months.

Introduced a new invoicing system that reduced month-end turnaround time by 15%.

Filed payroll tax and sales tax for over 50 international customers each month.

Led annual budget preparation, performed departmental and account variances, and managed the standard costing globally for 4 sites.

For more sample bullet points and details on how to write effective bullet points, see our articles on resume bullet points , how to quantify your resume and resume accomplishments .

Frequently Asked Questions on Accountant Resumes

What should be in your resume to get a job as an accountant, what resume skills should you include in your accounting resume, what are examples of strong accounting accomplishments i can include on my resume.

• Saving money: Explain how your accounting methods helped reduce accounting error rates and resulted in savings for the organization.
• Revenue: Explain the extent to which your work helped your company generate revenue. List the value of assets you oversaw and the amount of money under your care.
• Regulatory compliance: How did your interpretation of accounting rules help your company stay compliant and save money in fines and fees?
• Vendor and client relations: State the number of individual client accounts that you handled and the period that you retained them. Explain how you assessed vendors and handled their invoices.
• Management: Mention the number of junior accountants that you mentored and how you liaised with senior executives to achieve the company’s vision.

What should a senior accountant include on their resume?

What are examples of strong bullet points i can include on my accounting resume.

Audited departmental acquisition protocols and recovered $10M in overstated expenses. Managed a team of 13 tax specialists, increasing division’s revenue by 15% year-on-year. Implemented simpler journaling systems using Excel for a team of 70+ accounting clerks, reducing closing time by an average of 3 days.

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Cost analyst.

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• Sample Bullet Points from Top Resumes
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• Explore Alternative and Similar Careers

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• Career Blog

10 Accountant Resume Examples That Secured Jobs in 2024

When it comes to landing your dream accounting job, having a well-crafted resume can make all the difference. Your resume is your chance to make a great first impression on potential employers and showcase your skills, achievements, and experience. In this article, we’ll explore ten real-life examples of accountant resumes that secured jobs. By examining successful resumes, you’ll gain insight into strategies for crafting a winning resume that can help you stand out from the competition.

Importance of a well-crafted resume for accountants

The accounting industry is competitive, and hiring managers often receive numerous resumes for every open position. With so many applicants to choose from, having a strong resume is critical for accounting professionals who want to land coveted roles. A well-crafted resume can highlight your strengths, communicate your experience and skills, and demonstrate your potential value to a prospective employer. By showing that you’re not only qualified but also uniquely positioned to deliver value to their organization, you’re more likely to be called in for an interview and ultimately offered the position.

Skills to Include in Your Accountant Resume

As a professional accountant, it is essential to highlight both hard and soft skills in your resume. The hard skills demonstrate your technical abilities, such as software proficiency, accounting principles, and financial statement analysis. Meanwhile, the soft skills demonstrate your interpersonal abilities, such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving.

A. Relevant Hard and Soft Skills

Here are some of the most relevant hard and soft skills that you should include in your accountant resume:

Hard Skills:

• Accounting Principles
• Tax Compliance and Regulations
• Financial Statement Analysis
• Bookkeeping
• Software Proficiency (QuickBooks, Microsoft Excel, etc.)
• Accounts Receivable and Payable
• Cost Accounting
• Audit and Risk Assessment
• Budget Planning

Soft Skills:

• Communication
• Attention to Detail
• Time Management
• Problem-Solving
• Adaptability
• Critical Thinking
• Customer Service

B. Examples of How to Incorporate Them into Your Resume

To showcase the above skills on your accountant’s resume, you must tailor your profile summary, work experience, and education section. Below are a few examples of how to incorporate them into your resume:

Profile Summary

• Highly analytical and detail-oriented accountant with expertise in cost accounting, financial analysis, and tax compliance.
• Team-oriented and adaptable professional with excellent communication and problem-solving skills in fast-paced environments.
• Skilled accountant with over five years of experience in bookkeeping, accounts receivable, and payable management, and software proficiency in QuickBooks and MS Excel.

Work Experience

• Introduced cost-saving measures by streamlining accounting processes and identifying accounting errors, resulting in an annual cost reduction of $50,000.
• Managed the timely completion and filing of tax returns and financial statements, ensuring compliance with tax regulations and accounting standards.
• Collaborated with cross-functional teams to develop and implement effective financial strategies, resulting in a 10% increase in revenue.
• Bachelor’s in Accounting with a focus on tax compliance and financial reporting.
• Completed courses in cost accounting, auditing, and budget planning, fostering a deeper understanding of accounting principles and practices.
• Participated in extracurricular activities, demonstrating teamwork, leadership, and critical thinking skills.

Incorporating both hard and soft skills in your accountant resume will showcase your capabilities and make you stand out from other applicants. So, be sure to highlight relevant skills and customize your resume accordingly.

Accounting job descriptions and resume targeting

When it comes to creating a winning accountant resume, it’s important to understand the impact that job descriptions can have on your chances of securing a job. In this section, we’ll take a closer look at how to choose the right job for your resume and how to tailor your resume to match the job description.

A. Choosing the right job for your resume

Before you start applying for accounting jobs, it’s important to carefully consider which ones are the best fit for your skills, experience, and career goals. Here are a few tips to help you choose the right job for your resume:

• Consider your skillset: Look for accounting jobs that require skills you can confidently demonstrate on your resume. This will help you stand out to potential employers and increase your chances of being selected for an interview.
• Research the company: Learn as much as possible about the company and its mission before applying for a job. This will help you tailor your resume and cover letter to the company’s specific needs and show that you’re genuinely interested in working there.
• Keep your goals in mind: Think about what you want to achieve in your accounting career and prioritize jobs that align with those goals. Whether you’re looking for a long-term opportunity or a stepping stone to a higher-level job, choose jobs that will help you get closer to your goals.

B. Understanding job descriptions and their impact on resumes

When creating an accounting resume, it’s essential to understand the job description and tailor your resume to match it as closely as possible. Here are a few reasons why:

• Stand out from the competition: By matching the job description closely, you’ll show potential employers that you’re the perfect fit for the job. This can help you stand out from other applicants and increase your chances of being invited for an interview.
• Highlight your strengths: When you tailor your resume to the job description, you can highlight your strengths and show how they match the specific requirements of the job. This will help you make a stronger case for why you’re the best candidate for the position.
• Avoid being disqualified: If you don’t take the time to tailor your resume to the job description, you could be disqualified from the hiring process. Many companies today use software to scan resumes for specific keywords and phrases, and if your resume doesn’t include them, you may not be considered for the job.

Choosing the right accounting job for your resume and tailoring your resume to match the job description are critical steps in securing an accounting job. By doing your research, highlighting your strengths, and carefully matching the job description, you can increase your chances of landing the job of your dreams.

Resume format and design for accountants

When it comes to accounting resumes, selecting an appropriate format is important to ensure that your key qualifications and experiences are clearly communicated to the hiring manager.

Here are a few formats that you might consider:

Chronological Format

This format is probably the most common and straightforward. It starts with your most recent job and works backwards – listing job titles, companies, and a summary of your duties and accomplishments. It is particularly effective if you have a stable work history.

Functional Format

With this format, you do not list your employment history in reverse chronological order, but instead focus on your relevant skills and abilities. This format is useful if you have significant gaps in your employment history or are changing careers.

Combination Format

As the name suggests, this format combines aspects of both chronological and functional formats. It highlights skills and abilities, but also includes a chronological listing of employment history.

Once you have chosen a format, the next step is to focus on design elements that help your resume stand out.

Here are some design elements to consider:

Clear and Consistent Formatting

Use clear and consistent headings, typography, and formatting. This makes your resume easier to read and demonstrates your attention to detail. Aim for a clean and modern look.

Add Some Color

Many accounting resumes can look very similar. Using color in your design can help you stand out, but be sure to use it judiciously. Use color to highlight your headings, borders or other key elements.

Quantify Your Results

Use numbers to show the results of your achievements. This helps hiring managers to see the tangible impact you have had in your previous roles. For example, “Reduced expenses by 15% by implementing new cost-saving measures.”

Your resume should make clear your key qualifications and experiences to the hiring manager, and the design elements of your resume should help it stand out from other applicants. By selecting and implementing an appropriate format along with design elements that enhance the overall visual appeal, you will have a powerful document that showcases your professional brand.

Accountant Resume Example 1: Entry-level Accountant

As an entry-level accountant, gaining experience through internships and part-time jobs is crucial to landing your first full-time position. Your resume must demonstrate your proficiency in particular accounting skills, as well as your ability to learn quickly and contribute to a team.

A. Key Skills and Achievements

The skills and achievements listed on your resume should reflect your understanding of basic accounting principles, including:

• Experience with accounting software such as QuickBooks, Peachtree, or Xero
• Account reconciliation
• Accounts payable and receivable
• General ledger and journal entries
• Financial statement preparation
• Tax preparation
• Audit preparation

Your achievements should focus on your ability to learn quickly and work collaboratively. For example:

• Completed an internship where I reconciled accounts for a small business and created financial statements
• Collaborated with team members on a class project where we analyzed financial statements for a publicly traded company
• Volunteered with a non-profit organization where I assisted in preparing tax returns for low-income families

B. Specific Format and Design Elements Used

When designing your resume, you should focus on these specific elements:

1. Summary Statement

Your summary statement should succinctly communicate your skills, experience, and abilities. For example:

“Detail-oriented and team-focused entry-level accountant with experience in account reconciliation and financial statement preparation. Proficient in accounting software such as QuickBooks and Peachtree.”

2. Education

Since you are an entry-level candidate, your education will be one of your most significant qualifications. List your degree, major, and any relevant coursework or awards. For example:

• Bachelor of Science in Accounting, Anytown University, 2021
• Relevant coursework: Financial Accounting, Managerial Accounting, Tax Accounting
• Dean’s List, Fall 2020

3. Relevant Work and Volunteer Experience

Include any relevant internships, part-time jobs, or volunteer experience related to accounting. Highlight your responsibilities and achievements in each role. For example:

Accounting Intern, ABC Company, Summer 2020

• Reconciled accounts for small business clients
• Created financial statements for clients using QuickBooks
• Assisted with tax preparation for individual clients

Create a separate section for your skills, focusing on those most relevant to an entry-level accounting position. For example:

• Accounting software: QuickBooks, Peachtree, Xero

5. Design Elements

Your resume should be clear, concise, and easy to read. Use bullet points to highlight key information, and choose a professional font such as Arial or Times New Roman. Use bold or italics to draw attention to important words or phrases.

Accountant Resume Example 2: Staff Accountant

If you’re a staff accountant looking for a new job, it’s vital to have a strong resume that highlights your skills and achievements. Here’s an example of a staff accountant resume that landed someone a job.

When writing your resume, it’s important to highlight your notable skills and achievements. For staff accountants, some key skills and achievements to consider including are:

• Proficiency in accounting software (e.g. Quickbooks, Sage)
• Experience with financial reporting and analysis
• Knowledge of tax laws and regulations
• Strong attention to detail
• Ability to communicate effectively with both clients and colleagues
• Experience with audits and reconciliations

Here are some accomplishments that could be included in a staff accountant resume:

• Successfully created financial statements and reports for the entire fiscal year
• Reduced expenses by 8% through analyzing various accounting processes
• Implemented new accounting software, resulting in increased productivity and reduced errors

Formatting and design elements can make a big difference in how your resume is received. Here are some specific format and design elements used in this staff accountant resume example:

1. Clean and Simple Design

The overall design of the resume is clean and simple. It uses professional fonts and formatting to make the information easy to read.

2. Summary Statement

The staff accountant’s summary statement is included at the top of the resume. It highlights the person’s experience and skills and provides a brief overview of their career objectives.

3. Skills Section

The skills section is included on this resume to highlight the staff accountant’s core competencies. This section makes it easy for hiring managers to quickly identify the skills and experience that they are looking for.

4. Work Experience

The work experience section includes the staff accountant’s most recent roles and includes bullet points that highlight their key achievements in those roles.

5. Education

The education section is included at the bottom of the resume, and it includes the staff accountant’s degree and any relevant certifications.

This staff accountant example resume is an excellent example of how to showcase skills and achievements while also using professional formatting and design elements to make the resume easy to read and visually appealing.

Accountant Resume Example 3: Senior Accountant

As a Senior Accountant, it is important to showcase your experience and expertise in handling complex financial transactions for large organizations. Here are some key skills and achievements that highlight the value you can bring to a company:

• Over X years of experience in financial management, accounting, and auditing for large corporations.
• Proven ability to manage financial operations, including budgeting, forecasting, and cash flow management.
• Expertise in analyzing financial statements, identifying trends, and providing recommendations for improvement.
• Strong knowledge of GAAP, SEC regulations, and tax laws.
• Successful track record in managing teams and implementing process improvements to streamline operations.
• Implemented new financial software system resulting in a 30% increase in efficiency.
• Reduced cost of financial reporting by 25% by automating processes.
• Improved accuracy of financial forecasting by 20% through data analysis and process improvements.

To showcase your accomplishments and experience effectively, consider using the following format and design elements:

• Professional Summary:  A brief introduction that highlights your key skills and experience.
• Skills Section:  A list of your key skills, arranged in bullet points for easy readability.
• Experience Section:  A reverse chronological list of your previous roles, including job title, company name, dates of employment, and bullet points describing your accomplishments in each role.
• Education Section:  A list of your relevant degrees and certifications, including the name of the institution and the year of completion.
• Design Elements:  Choose a simple, clean layout with easy-to-read fonts and clear headings. Use bullet points to break up text and draw attention to key points. Include relevant keywords throughout the resume to help it get through Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS).

Remember, the goal of your Senior Accountant resume is to clearly demonstrate how you can bring value to a company through your skills, experience, and accomplishments. Use clear, concise language and include specific details of your achievements to stand out from other applicants. Good luck!

Accountant Resume Example 4: Accounting Manager

When it comes to accounting manager resumes, there are specific skills and achievements that hiring managers look for. Here are some of the key skills and achievements to highlight when crafting an accounting manager resume:

• Financial Analysis:  Ability to interpret and analyze financial statements, identify trends and patterns, and present findings to stakeholders.
• Budgeting and Forecasting:  Ability to develop and manage budgets, forecast future revenue and expenses, and provide recommendations to improve financial performance.
• Leadership and Management:  Ability to lead and motivate a team, delegate tasks effectively, and manage conflicting priorities to deliver results.
• Technical Skills:  Proficiency in accounting software such as QuickBooks, SAP, and Oracle, as well as advanced Excel skills.
• Communication Skills:  Excellent verbal and written communication skills, including the ability to explain complex financial information to non-financial stakeholders.
• Regulatory Compliance:  Knowledge of relevant regulatory requirements, such as GAAP and IFRS, and ability to ensure compliance with these regulations.

Some achievements to showcase on an accounting manager resume might include:

• Contributing to improved financial performance by reducing costs, increasing revenue or improving processes.
• Leading successful budgeting and forecasting processes resulting in accurate financial projections.
• Implementing new accounting software or systems resulting in greater efficiency and accuracy.
• Developing and coaching team members resulting in improved team performance and retention.

When designing an accounting manager resume, it’s important to include the following elements:

• Professional Summary: A brief introduction that highlights your relevant skills and experience.
• Skills and Achievements Section: A bullet-point list of your key skills and accomplishments.
• Professional Experience: A chronological list of your previous work experience, including job titles, companies, and dates of employment.
• Education: A list of your education credentials, including degrees earned and relevant coursework.

In terms of formatting, it’s important to keep the resume clean and easy to read. Use consistent font and formatting throughout the document, align text to the left, and use bullet points to highlight key information. Avoid using graphics or images unless they add value to the document.

When it comes to design, there are a few things to keep in mind. Use clear section headings to make it easy for the reader to find relevant information. Use white space and margin spacing to separate sections and make the document easy to scan. When possible, use numbers and data to showcase your achievements and contributions.

A well-designed and thoughtfully crafted accounting manager resume can set you apart from the competition and help you secure your dream job in finance.

Accountant Resume Example 5: Financial Analyst

In today’s competitive job market, crafting a noteworthy accounting resume is vital to securing your dream job. This section will provide insight into a successful financial analyst resume, which will showcase outstanding skills and accomplishments within the profession. The following example provides recruiters with a clear and concise view of your abilities – highlighting key skills and professional achievements.

Key Skills and Achievements

The financial analyst is a coveted position in the accounting field. As a candidate, you need to demonstrate an understanding of several financial concepts such as analysis, forecasting, and budgeting. In addition to specialized financial knowledge, recruiters need to be reassured of your client management, communication, and problem-solving ability. Your resume’s key skills and achievements must effectively highlight you as a proficient candidate.

Key skills and achievements for a financial analyst resume may include:

• Expertise in financial modeling, analysis, and forecasting
• Experience managing complex financial transactions and budgets
• Exceptional proficiency in Excel and financial modeling software
• Communication and interpersonal skills to work cross-functionally across teams
• Experience with SQL, Python, or R
• Knowledge of regulatory compliance and accounting standards

Specific Format and Design Elements Used

When crafting a financial analyst resume, it’s important to ensure it’s visually appealing and easy to follow. You want to make a great first impression with your potential employers. Here are specific format and design elements to ensure your financial analyst resume stands out in the crowd.

• Objective statement

Lead your resume with an objective statement that outlines your experience, skills, and ambitions. This statement should be tailored directly to the job you’re applying for.

• Professional Summary

Follow the objective statement with a professional summary. This should be a brief professional profile that outlines your core competencies, industry experience, and accomplishments.

• Relevant Work History

Highlight relevant work history, including job title, duties, and achievements in bullet point format. It’s essential that you maintain focus on how each role has helped you develop and showcase your skills as a financial analyst.

• Education and Qualifications

Include at least one degree or qualification that highlights your specialized financial skills, such as a Bachelor’s or Master’s Degree in finance. Highlight any finance-related certifications you hold, such as CFA or CPA.

Use specific language that refers to the skills and qualifications required for the financial analyst position. This will ensure that your resume gets past applicant tracking systems used by some recruiters.

• Simple and Easy to Read

Finally, the financial analyst resume must be simple and easy to read. Maintain a consistent use of font size and font type, and ensure there is enough white space to increase readability.

Crafting an exceptional financial analyst resume is crucial to landing a job in this competitive market. Highlight your financial expertise, technical proficiency, communication, and problem-solving ability.

Accountant Resume Example 6: Tax Accountant

In this example, we are presenting the resume of a tax accountant. A tax accountant is responsible for preparing and filing tax returns for individuals or businesses. As a tax accountant, you need to be knowledgeable about tax laws and regulations and have a keen eye for detail. You must also be able to communicate effectively with clients and colleagues.

Here are the key skills and achievements that this tax accountant has included in their resume:

• Expertise in tax preparation software such as TurboTax and TaxAct.
• In-depth understanding of federal and state tax laws and regulations.
• Proven ability to identify tax-saving opportunities for clients and businesses.
• Knowledge of accounting principles and financial statement analysis.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• CPA certification.

The tax accountant has also included some significant achievements in their resume:

• Prepared and filed over 100 tax returns for individuals and businesses, resulting in a total of $500,000 in tax savings.
• Identified and corrected accounting errors for a client, resulting in a $50,000 refund from the IRS.
• Completed a complex tax audit for a high-net-worth individual, resulting in a favorable outcome for the client.

Including achievements in your resume can help you stand out from other candidates and demonstrate your value to potential employers.

The tax accountant has used a simple and clean design for their resume. They have used bullet points to highlight their key skills and achievements, making it easy for the reader to quickly scan and absorb the information. They have also used bold font and capital letters to emphasize important words and phrases.

One important element to note is that the tax accountant has tailored their resume to the job description. They have included specific keywords from the job posting, such as “tax preparation software,” “federal and state tax laws,” and “financial statement analysis.” This strategy can help your resume pass through automated screening systems and catch the attention of hiring managers.

The tax accountant has also included their CPA certification prominently at the top of the resume, signaling their expertise in the field. They have also included a brief summary of their skills and achievements, giving the reader a quick overview of what they can offer as a candidate.

This tax accountant has created a well-structured, targeted, and visually appealing resume that highlights their key skills, achievements, and expertise. By following these tips, you too can create a winning accountant resume that secures jobs.

Accountant Resume Example 7: Internal Auditor

As an internal auditor, your role is crucial in ensuring the accuracy and integrity of a company’s financial records. Therefore, your resume must highlight your skills and achievements in the profession. Here’s an example of how you can structure your internal auditor resume:

Experience with financial audits  – List the total years of experience that you have with financial audits. Mention the different types of audits that you have conducted – operational, compliance, financial statements, and technology.

Strong analytical skills  – Mention your proficiency in data analysis, identifying errors and discrepancies, and providing recommendations to improve financial processes.

Knowledge of accounting standards  – List the different accounting standards that you are familiar with, such as GAAP, IFRS, or SEC regulations.

Attention to detail  – Demonstrate how you have developed attention to detail in your previous roles and how you have caught errors that are critical to the organization.

Communication skills  – Highlight your ability to articulate complex financial information to both financial and non-financial stakeholders.

Audit software proficiency  – List the different audit software you have worked with, such as ACL, Idea, or CaseWare.

Leadership and team management  – If you have managed a team or led an audit, include this information to showcase your management skills.

Clean and Simple Layout  – Use a clean and simple layout, with a professional font and color scheme. Avoid using too many graphics, as they may distract from the content.

Clear Headings and Bulleted Lists  – Use clear headings to break down sections and make them easy to read. Use bullet points to highlight your key skills and achievements.

Quantify Results  – Whenever possible, quantify the results of your audit work. For example, if you identified $10 million in fraudulent transactions, be sure to mention this in your resume.

Use Action-Oriented Language  – Use action-oriented language to describe your work experience. Start each bullet point with a strong action verb, such as “Conducted,” “Analyzed,” or “Managed.”

Tailor Your Resume to the Job Posting  – Review the job posting carefully and tailor your resume to the specific requirements of the role. Use keywords from the job posting to showcase your skills and experience.

By following these key skills and design elements, you can create a strong internal auditor resume that highlights your skills and achievements and secures that dream job.

Accountant Resume Example 8: Cost Accountant

As a cost accountant, it is important to highlight your financial expertise and analytical skills. Be sure to include the following key skills and achievements on your resume:

• Proficient in financial analysis, budgeting, and cost control.
• Strong knowledge of GAAP and financial reporting standards.
• Experience in inventory management, variance analysis, and determining cost of goods sold (COGS).
• Ability to develop and maintain pricing models to promote profitability.
• Successful track record in establishing and maintaining effective cost accounting systems.
• Skilled in preparing financial statements, such as balance sheets, income statements, and cash flow statements.

When creating a cost accountant resume, it is important to present your skills and achievements in an organized and visually appealing manner. Here are some format and design elements that can help your resume stand out:

1. Resume Headline

Make sure your headline clearly states your job title and specialization. For example, “Cost Accountant with Expertise in Budgeting and Financial Analysis.”

The summary statement serves as a quick introduction to your skills and experience. Be sure to include your key skills and achievements, and tailor your statement to the job you are applying for.

3. Professional Experience Section

When showcasing your professional experience, be sure to focus on your accomplishments rather than just listing your job duties. Use bullet points to highlight specific achievements related to financial analysis, cost control, and organizational efficiency.

4. Education and Certifications

Include any relevant degrees, certifications, or licenses that demonstrate your financial expertise. Be sure to list them in reverse chronological order, with the most recent first.

5. Visual Elements

Use bold text and bullet points to break up your resume into easy-to-read sections. You can also use simple icons or graphics to add visual interest.

A strong cost accountant resume should highlight your financial expertise, analytical abilities, and track record of success. By using a clear format and design, you can make your resume stand out to potential employers and secure a job in this competitive field.

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5 Entry-Level Accountant Resume Examples for 2024

Entry-Level Accountant Resume

Best for senior and mid-level candidates

There’s plenty of room in our elegant resume template to add your professional experience while impressing recruiters with a sleek design.

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• Entry-Level Accountant
• Entry-Level Accountant 2
• Entry-Level Accountant 3
• Entry-Level Accountant 4
• Entry-Level Accountant 5
• Entry-Level Accountant Resume Writing 101

As an up-and-coming accountant, you’re skilled at crunching numbers. As you prepare to take on responsibility for the financial backbone of a company, you know it’s more than just that adding up receipts.

Employers are looking for an accountant with hard skills like savvy financial reporting and soft skills like cross-team collaboration. But how can you showcase that experience when you’re, well, not experienced in the role?

Worry not! We’ve helped thousands of entry-level accountants score interviews and land their first job with our resume and cover letter writing tips. First, here are five entry-level accounting resume examples you can use to jumpstart your career.

or download as PDF

Why this resume works

• Seriously, even if that internship streak was just for a few months, it’s the perfect chance to show off how well you know the ropes of the industry and its hurdles. And hey, make those achievements shine—put numbers to them for that extra oomph.

Entry-Level Accountant 2 Resume

Entry-Level Accountant 3 Resume

Entry-Level Accountant 4 Resume

Entry-Level Accountant 5 Resume

Related resume examples

• Staff Accountant
• Forensic Accountant
• Management Accountant

The Most Important Part: Your Skills & Work Experience

What matters the most at the end of the day, simply put, are your skills and work experience. If those fall short, the chances of you landing an interview for that accountant position drop significantly.

Basically, the skills you show provide a quick, overarching summary of your technical prowess and demonstrate your abilities.

Early in your accounting career, you’ll want to focus on courses you’ve taken and skills you’ve learned and picked up (or via internships).

Another pro tip : if you see a skill mentioned in the accounting job description and you have it, make sure you include it, even if it’s not a requirement.

9 top entry-level accounting skills

• Financial Reporting
• Microsoft Excel
• Accounts Payable
• Accounts Receivable
• TurboTax Business
• Data Analysis

Sample entry-level accounting work experience bullet points

If there’s one word you should remember, it’s impact . When you talk about your early experience or projects in accounting (or in another field with translatable skills), hone in on your accomplishments.

Don’t just list your duties; explain what they achieved. Instead of “implemented centralized purchasing,” say “implemented centralizing purchasing to reduce costs by 12% .”

By quantifying your impact (using a measurable outcome, when possible), you can show the value of your expertise.

Let’s make it concrete with a few more examples (notice that some of these examples are accountant-related while others are relevant experience with transferable skills in other industries):

• Identified problem areas in financial reporting when assisting in reviewing client’s company tax returns, saving them $3K in fees
• Reviewed and analyzed company’s operating budget under senior accountant’s leadership, reducing expenses by 8%
• Accurately reconciled deposits and invoices with a daily turnover of $22K
• Managed a $50K annual budget as Finance Chair for the robotics club, and applied for 4 grants to fund 75% of the budget for club participants
• Collaborated with chair members, establishing an annual fundraising event that boosted contributions by $118K

Top 5 Tips for Your Entry-Level Accounting Resume

• Regardless of whether you have accountant internship experience, financial-based projects, or semi-relevant work in another industry, use metrics and state accomplishments that prove you have meticulous attention to accuracy, can think analytically and problem-solve, and that you don’t mind digging for answers.
• The best way to highlight your impact is by using active verbs. They pack a punch and show you’re proactive! Some examples include “achieved,” “doubled,” “solved” or “streamlined.” Improve your verb choices with our resume checker that checks for active voice.
• Even if you don’t plan on working directly in tax accounting, you’ll probably work with colleagues who do. A great way to stand out is to have at least a functional knowledge of one or two of the more significant corporate tax software options, like TurboTax or ProSeries.
• If this is the first accounting job you’re applying for, your experience might be a little thin. Write down courses you’ve excelled at, such as Financial Modeling or ERP Technology, which will help showcase your savvy. If you have business analytics skills, like with Tableau or Zoho Analytics, add them too!
• You might feel tempted to stretch the truth on your accounting resume, but don’t. If you wouldn’t be comfortable being interviewed about your expertise with Quickbooks, best not to add it.

Since this is an entry-level accounting position, perhaps. If you do, it’s important to customize your resume objective to every job you apply to. Mention the company by name, speak to your best skills the company is also seeking, and clearly show what you can bring to the table like this example:

Transparent, organized, and flexible accounting graduate with practical internship experience. Desire to thrive in team-based roles at Robert Half to grow under the expertise of senior accountants as I use my data entry and spreadsheet background.

Absolutely! Don’t worry; that doesn’t mean entirely rewriting your resume. Instead, carefully read each job ad and ensure the skills and work experience they want have been woven throughout your resume. (This same idea applies when it comes time to create a cover letter , too.)

Your skills section should be specific enough for a recruiter to get a good summary of your mastery. Instead of just saying you’re skilled in financial accounting software, mention the software you’ve worked with, like Xero or FreshBooks, especially if the job listing also mentions that specific skill(s) .

Entry Level Accounting Resume No Experience

Crafting a resume for an entry-level accounting position when you have no direct professional experience can indeed be challenging.

However, by highlighting your academic achievements, relevant coursework, internships, and extracurricular activities, you can create a compelling resume that showcases your potential.

Whether through volunteer work, class projects, or student organization involvement, demonstrating your dedication and acquired skills can significantly boost your chances.

This guide provides a structured template to help you effectively communicate your qualifications and enthusiasm for a career in accounting.

Entry Level Accounting Resume With No Experience Template

[your name].

[Your Address] [City, State, ZIP Code] [Your Email] | [Your Phone Number] | [LinkedIn Profile]

A highly motivated and detail-oriented recent graduate with a Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, seeking an entry-level position to utilize my academic knowledge and gain hands-on experience in accounting. Eager to contribute to the team and grow within the company.

Bachelor of Science in Accounting [University Name], [City, State] Graduated: [Month, Year]

• Relevant Coursework: Financial Accounting, Managerial Accounting, Taxation, Auditing, Cost Accounting, Business Law

Certifications

• [CPA Exam Part Completed or In Progress (if applicable)]
• [Any other certifications related to accounting or finance]
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, PowerPoint)
• Familiar with accounting software such as QuickBooks and Sage
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• Excellent attention to detail and organizational abilities
• Knowledge of GAAP (Generally Accepted Accounting Principles)
• Effective communication and teamwork skills

Accounting Intern (Volunteer) [Company Name], [City, State]                                                    [Month, Year] – [Month, Year]

• Assisted with the preparation of financial reports and statements.
• Conducted account reconciliations and maintained accurate records.
• Supported the accounts payable and receivable processes.
• Assisted in the preparation of tax filings and documentation.

Treasurer (Student Organization) [Organization Name], [University Name]                                                    [Month, Year] – [Month, Year]

• Managed the organization’s budget and financial planning.
• Recorded and tracked expenses to ensure compliance with the budget.
• Prepared financial reports and presented them to the board.
• Coordinated fundraising events and managed financial transactions.

Financial Statement Analysis Project [University Name]                                                    [Month, Year] – [Month, Year]

• Analyzed the financial statements of a publicly traded company.
• Performed ratio analysis to evaluate the company’s financial health.
• Prepared a detailed report with findings and recommendations.

Extracurricular Activities

• Member of the Accounting Club, [University Name]
• Volunteer at [Community Service or Non-profit Organization]

Available upon request.

[Your Signature (if sending as a physical document)]

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