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Accountant Apprentice Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

ARDAGH GROUP

Plant Finance Manager

Chicago, IL · On-site

Financial/management accounting and reporting, with an emphasis on accurate, timely information ... Apprenticeship programs * Professional and personal development opportunities through Employee ...

ARDAGH GROUP

Plant Finance Manager

Chicago, IL

Financial/management accounting and reporting, with an emphasis on accurate, timely information ... Apprenticeship programs * Professional and personal development opportunities through Employee ...

Ardagh Group

Plant Finance Manager

Chicago, IL · On-site

Financial/management accounting and reporting, with an emphasis on accurate, timely information ... Apprenticeship programs * Professional and personal development opportunities through Employee ...

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All JobsAccountant Apprentice JobsAccountant Apprentice Jobs in Chicago, IL

Accountant Apprentice information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$15

$27

$43

How much do accountant apprentice jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for accountant apprentice in Chicago, IL is $27.11, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.78 and $30.48 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 Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Accountant jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Accountant Apprentice jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Accountant Apprentice job openings:

Accountant Apprentice jobs near you
Infographic showing various Accountant Apprentice job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $56,399 per year, or $27.1 per hour.

Senior Accountant - Portage, IN

SMS Mill Services, LLC.

Portage, IN • On-site

$67K - $85K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted yesterday

Job description

Senior Accountant
SMS Mill Services, LLC is a leader in the steel mill services industry prioritizing recycling and environmental/worker' safety and handling all operations with integrity. SMS Corporate is seeking a motivated, detail-oriented and professional Senior Accountant. This position is best suited for someone who is passionate about being an integral part of a driven accounting team and is self-motivated to make things happen efficiently and accurately. 
 
Reporting to the Vice President of Finance this role will be responsible for coordinating the timely and accurate execution of the financial close including significant areas impacting the business units, revenue accounting and controls, fixed assets and inventory.  This key position will help develop, strategize, and implement the shared services vision for the accounting function.  
SMS provides a comprehensive range of services for steel mill customers.  We partner with our customers to design custom, cost-effective solutions, which focus on adding value and achieving goals for the operation and the environment. Our range of services includes, but is not limited scrap yard management, finished or semi-finished product services, melt shop services, logistics/transportation support, and slag processing.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Maintain fixed asset subledger by recording additions, disposals and location transfers in a timely manner. Preparing monthly reconciliation to support associated balance sheet accounts and verify depreciation and gain/loss expense calculations are accurate.
  • Actively participate in the month-end and year-end accounting close process including the preparation of standard and non-re occurring journal entries.
  • Prepare monthly balance sheet account reconciliations such as prepaids, current and non-current liabilities, intercompany and other areas as assigned.
  • Analyze company and subsidiary financial activity to ensure accurate financial records.
  • Assist in bank reconciliation and treasury functions as needed.
  • Research and resolve accounting issues. 
  • Assist in the preparation of statutory filings, property tax filings and sales/use tax filings.
  • Support the annual audit process. 
  • Support the annual budget process.
  • Leasing/ASC 842 responsibilities
  • Other duties as assigned
​​​​​​​​​​​​​​
Skills & Qualifications:  
  • Bachelor’s degree in Accounting. 
  • CPA, MBA not required but would be a plus. 
  • 5-7 years’ experience in accounting role.
  • Manufacturing experience is a plus. 
  • Strong Excel skills required.
  • Ability to travel 10% to company locations. 
  • Ability to collaborate and communicate with all levels of the organization, including FPA team, operational managers, and the executive team. 

What we can Offer:
  • A comprehensive compensation package to commensurate with experience including bonuses
  • Benefits include Medical, Dental, Vision, company-paid life insurance, etc. offered on day 1!
  • 401(k) with 4% matching, 100% vested as of first contribution
  • Paid holidays, 4 weeks paid vacation
  • Work in a dynamic, collaborative, progressive, and high-performing team.

SMS Mill Services, LLC is an equal opportunity employer that is committed to diversity and inclusion in the workplace. We prohibit discrimination and harassment of any kind based on race, color, sex, religion, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, genetic information, pregnancy, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic as outlined by federal, state, or local laws.
This policy applies to all employment practices within our organization, including hiring, recruiting, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, leave of absence, compensation, benefits, training, and apprenticeship. SMS Mill Services, LLC makes hiring decisions based solely on qualifications, merit, and business needs at the time.
 

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