1

Accountant Apprentice Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Certified Payroll Specialist

Fremont, CA ยท On-site

$32 - $40/hr

Track employee classifications, apprenticeships, and wage determinations * Respond to audits and labor compliance inquiries * Coordinate with project managers, HR, and accounting team * Assist with ...

Certified Payroll Specialist

Hayward, CA ยท On-site

$32 - $40/hr

Track employee classifications, apprenticeships, and wage determinations * Respond to audits and labor compliance inquiries * Coordinate with project managers, HR, and accounting team * Assist with ...

Showing results 41-60

Accountant Apprentice information

See California salary details

$14

$25

$41

How much do accountant apprentice jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for accountant apprentice in California is $25.98, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.87 and $29.18 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an accountant apprentice?

An accountant apprentice is an individual who is training to become a qualified accountant while working in a real-world accounting environment. Apprenticeships combine on-the-job experience with formal education, allowing apprentices to gain practical skills and knowledge needed for the accounting profession. Typically, accountant apprentices assist with bookkeeping, preparing financial statements, and supporting senior accountants with various tasks. This role is ideal for those who want to earn while they learn and pursue recognized accounting qualifications.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an accountant apprentice, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Accountant Apprentice, you need a solid grasp of basic accounting principles, numeracy, attention to detail, and often a relevant educational background such as GCSEs or A-levels in math-related subjects. Familiarity with accounting software like Sage, QuickBooks, or Xero, and Excel, as well as pursuing or planning to pursue an AAT qualification, is typical. Strong communication, time management, and willingness to learn help an apprentice stand out in a busy finance environment. These skills and qualities are crucial for accurate financial processing, effective teamwork, and steady professional growth within the accounting field.

What are some common challenges accountant apprentices face when transitioning from classroom learning to on-the-job work?

Accountant Apprentices often find that adapting theoretical knowledge to real-world scenarios can be challenging in the early stages of their apprenticeship. Tasks such as using accounting software, understanding company-specific procedures, and managing multiple deadlines require practical skills that are developed over time. Apprentices typically work closely with experienced accountants, who provide guidance and feedback to help bridge the gap between academic concepts and everyday accounting practices. Embracing a proactive attitude and seeking clarification when needed can make this transition smoother and more rewarding.

What is the difference between Accountant Apprentice vs Accounting Assistant?

AspectAccountant Apprentice
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some may pursue accounting certifications or courses
Work EnvironmentOn-the-job training, often in accounting firms or finance departments
Employer & Industry UsageUsed by companies hiring entry-level trainees to develop accounting skills
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared for entry-level accounting roles and training pathways

While an Accountant Apprentice is primarily focused on learning and gaining practical experience under supervision, an Accounting Assistant typically performs more routine accounting tasks independently. Both roles serve as entry points into the accounting profession, but the apprentice position emphasizes training and skill development, whereas the assistant role involves supporting ongoing accounting operations.

Can you become an accountant apprentice through an apprenticeship?

Yes, becoming an accountant apprentice is possible through an apprenticeship program, which provides on-the-job training and classroom learning. These programs often require candidates to meet minimum education requirements and may lead to certifications like AAT or ACCA. Apprenticeships typically combine work experience with relevant coursework to prepare individuals for a career in accounting.

What are the most commonly searched types of Accountant jobs in California?

The most popular types of Accountant jobs in California are:

What job categories do people searching Accountant Apprentice jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Accountant Apprentice jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Accountant Apprentice jobs?

Cities in California with the most Accountant Apprentice job openings:

Infographic showing various Accountant Apprentice job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 97% Full Time, and 3% Part Time. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,032 per year, or $26 per hour.

Program Assistant Apprenticeship - One Irvine Workforce

City of Irvine, CA

Irvine, CA โ€ข On-site

$61K/yr

Full-time

Posted 9 days ago


Job description

Salary : $61,588.80 Annually
Location : Irvine, CA
Job Type: Full-Time
Job Number: 04139
Department: Human Resources
Opening Date: 08/14/2026
Closing Date: 9/1/2026 11:59 PM Pacific
Description
Current Employees:
Use the Workday to view and apply to opportunities.
Do not use the external career site to apply.
External Applicants:
Use the Workday to view and apply to opportunities.
One Irvine Workforce Presents: Program Assistant Apprenticeship (Limited Term*)
This recruitment will fill vacancies in the following City departments/divisions:
City Clerk's Office
City Manager's Office
The Athletics division of Community & Library Services
Human Resources
*These positions are full-time, at-will, and budgeted for 14 months with the approximate program period of late October 2026 through December 2027.
Post-program employment opportunities may be available, but are not guaranteed.
Program Assistant Apprentices play a pivotal role delivering quality administrative support within various City departments. If you are passionate about serving your community, possess strong programmatic, administrative, and customer service skills, a Program Assistant Apprenticeship could be an excellent opportunity for you!
The One Irvine Workforce Apprenticeship Program is funded through the California Volunteers Youth Service Corps grant. In addition to employment, apprentices receive specialized professional development and mentorship, and participate in innovative trainings, all while supporting some of Irvine's most important initiatives. An apprenticeship is a great way to gain on-the-job training, experience the benefits of public service, and invest in your future.
Apprenticeship Eligibility Requirements
This program is grant funded and has specific eligibility requirements, including:
  • Participants must be between 18-30 years old on their first day of service, estimated to be October 2026.
  • Priority will be given to Irvine residents who meet at least two of the following:
    1. Are unemployed or out of school
    2. Are low-income
    3. May have difficulty finding employment
    4. Are first generation college students
    5. Were in or are transitioning from foster care
    6. Are or were engaged with a mental health or substance abuse system
    7. Are or were justice-involved
    8. Are experiencing or have experienced housing instability
    9. Have not participated in an AmeriCorps program

Your Impact
  • Coordinate and manage a variety of departmental office and administrative functions, prioritizing tasks and projects to support the team's daily operations.
  • Provide assistance and information to employees and external parties regarding City services, programs, policies, and procedures, demonstrating a commitment to excellent customer service.
  • Conduct research, and compile and analyze data for assigned projects and reports. Prepare and present findings to support recommendations and decision-making processes.
  • Enter and review a high volume of project related data in complex systems while appropriately applying department policies and procedures.
  • Create reports from information in databases. Demonstrate proficiency in relevant software applications such as Microsoft Word, Outlook, and Excel.
  • Assess and evaluate projects and services provided by assigned division. Assist with the development and planning of upcoming projects and initiatives.
  • Act as a backup to the department receptionist, maintaining a professional and welcoming environment for employees and visitors.
  • May assist with a variety of program-specific responsibilities, including community engagement, creating marketing materials, conducting needs assessments, supporting billing and accounting tasks, maintaining records and files, and scheduling meetings or program activities.
  • For more information, please see the class specification.

Minimum Qualifications
  • Community college coursework inbusiness,office practices, or related field.
  • Four years of increasingly responsible customer service, clerical and/or administrative support experience, or any combination of education and experience that provides equivalent knowledge, skills, and abilities.
  • May require a valid California driver's license.

Best Fit
  • Exceptional interpersonal skills and a passion for customer service.
  • Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
  • Ability to work independently while multi-tasking and contributing to an overall team environment.
  • Ability to take direction with humility and a desire to invest in professional growth.
  • Ability to handle sensitive information with the highest level of confidentiality.
  • Willingness to learn computer programs and departmental systems, and engage in mentorship opportunities.
  • Willingness to think innovatively to develop new ways to perform tasks and engage with your team.

Your Team
The Mission of the Employees of the City of Irvine is to create and maintain a community where people can live, work, and play in an environment that is safe, vibrant, and aesthetically pleasing. We are one team that exists to serve our community in the continual pursuit of a City that offers an exceptional quality of life.
The City of Irvine's five values of Humility, Innovation, Empathy, Passion, and Integrity reflect the interests and needs of the community, and the level of service they expect and desire. We are One Irvine through the embrace of a team-oriented approach by living our values every day.
The Process
The selection process will include an interview and a background investigation prior to appointment. This recruitment may establish an eligibility list to fill future positions in similar and/or lower classifications within the organization.