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Accounting Associate Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

You are an accountant who enjoys helping clients and collaborating with your co-workers when you encounter a unique situation that requires you to research and solve a client's problem. You are ...

Accounting Associate

Naperville, IL · On-site

$60K - $85K/yr

You are an accountant who enjoys helping clients and collaborating with your co-workers when you encounter a unique situation that requires you to research and solve a client's problem. You are ...

Senior Accounting Associate

Chicago, IL · On-site +1

$85K - $115K/yr

Work with a Top 20 CPA and advisory firm that Accounts for Anything. Aprio has 40 U.S. office ... savvy, detail-driven Senior Associate to join our dynamic, distributed team. Position ...

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Associates Degree or equivalent from a two-year college or technical school preferred * 1-3 years accounts receivable/cash application experience * Knowledge of general accounting principles ...

Associate Accounting Manager

Itasca, IL · On-site

$90K - $105K/yr

Overview Topco Associates is currently seeking an Associate Accounting Manager for the Accounting team in Itasca, IL. This position will be a hybrid role, with the successful candidate conducting ...

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Payroll Associate/Accounting Associate Location: Moline, IL, 61265-5884 Duration: 12+ Months of W2 contract * Process and analyze time, earnings, and deductions/withholdings on a weekly basis to ...

We are seeking a skilled Senior Accountant P3 for our Client Accounting Services team in Westmont, IL. This role involves managing complex accounting tasks, preparing financial statements, and ...

Showing results 21-40

Accounting Associate information

See Illinois salary details

$13

$24

$34

How much do accounting associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for accounting associate in Illinois is $24.15, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.57 and $27.50 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an accounting associate?

Accounting Associates are entry- to mid-level professionals who assist with the daily financial operations of a business or organization. Their main responsibilities often include processing invoices, managing accounts payable and receivable, reconciling bank statements, and preparing basic financial reports. They work closely with accountants and other finance team members to ensure accurate record-keeping and compliance with relevant regulations. This role often serves as a stepping stone for those looking to advance in the accounting or finance field.

What are some typical challenges accounting associates face when managing multiple deadlines?

Accounting Associates often juggle various tasks such as processing invoices, reconciling accounts, and preparing financial reports, all of which may have overlapping deadlines. Balancing these responsibilities requires strong organizational skills and effective time management. It's common to use accounting software and spreadsheets to prioritize work, but unexpected requests or discrepancies can arise, requiring quick problem-solving. Staying proactive in communication with team members and supervisors helps ensure that critical deadlines are met without compromising accuracy.

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

To thrive as an Accounting Associate, you need a solid understanding of basic accounting principles, attention to detail, and a degree in accounting or finance. Familiarity with accounting software such as QuickBooks, Microsoft Excel, and ERP systems, as well as relevant certifications like a CPA or Bookkeeping certification, is often required. Strong organizational skills, analytical thinking, and effective communication set outstanding candidates apart. These skills ensure accurate financial records, compliance with regulations, and efficient support for business operations.

What is the difference between Accounting Associate vs Bookkeeper?

AspectAccounting AssociateBookkeeper
CredentialsTypically an associate degree in accounting or related fieldHigh school diploma or equivalent; some may have certifications
Work EnvironmentCorporate offices, accounting firms, finance departmentsSmall businesses, freelance, or in-house for various companies
Job ResponsibilitiesData entry, assisting with financial reports, supporting accountantsRecording financial transactions, maintaining ledgers, reconciling accounts

While both roles handle financial data, an Accounting Associate often works alongside accountants in more analytical tasks, whereas a Bookkeeper focuses on recording and maintaining financial records. The roles are complementary but differ in scope and complexity.

Can I get a good job with an accounting associate's in accounting?

An accounting associate's degree can qualify you for entry-level accounting positions such as bookkeeper, accounting clerk, or payroll assistant. Gaining skills in accounting software like QuickBooks or Excel and obtaining certifications like the CPA can improve job prospects and advancement opportunities.

Is 30 too late to get into accounting?

Accounting associates can enter the field at any age, as the profession values skills and certifications such as an associate degree or CPA. Many professionals start later in life and succeed by gaining relevant experience and developing proficiency with accounting software like QuickBooks or Excel.

What are the most commonly searched types of Accounting jobs in Illinois?

The most popular types of Accounting jobs in Illinois are:

What cities in Illinois are hiring for Accounting Associate jobs?

Cities in Illinois with the most Accounting Associate job openings:

Infographic showing various Accounting Associate job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 23% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $50,236 per year, or $24.2 per hour.

Accounting Associate

DHJJ

Naperville, IL

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 3 days ago


Job description

Put Yourself on Track to Become a Principal in Our Firm.

A great client experience begins with a great employee experience. As part of the DHJJ team, you will enjoy collaborating with your colleagues-whether in person or remotely via Microsoft Teams, working on in-depth accounting issues, and continually enhancing your skills. Plus, we enjoy having fun with each other at company outings and even during the workday!


Your growth here is limitless.


Who You Are:

You are an accountant who enjoys helping clients and collaborating with your co-workers when you encounter a unique situation that requires you to research and solve a client's problem. You are looking to advance your career and help grow your firm.


Responsibilities:

  • Apply accounting knowledge to record client data with neat and accurate work as part of a team with coaching and supervision
  • Develop an understanding of client businesses and use this knowledge to help diagnose opportunities and suggest solutions
  • Effectively plan and organize own work with direction to meet deadlines and complete tasks within agreed-upon timeframes
  • Communicate directly with clients, responding to them in a timely and professional manner at the direction of the managers and principals.
  • Participate in initiatives to recruit talented people by providing time to speak with potential candidates at career forums
  • Undertake research to support sales and marketing initiatives


Required Skills:

  • Proficiency with QuickBooks Online and Microsoft Office
  • Strong sense of ownership and personal accountability
  • Produce high-quality work under deadlines
  • Particular attention to detail


Qualifications:

  • 2+ years of related experience
  • CPA candidates preferred


DHJJ Perks:

  • Hybrid work environment
  • CPA exam incentives
  • Dress for your day
  • Flexible schedules
  • Referral bonuses for new hires and new clients


Benefits:

  • Group health insurance offered through BCBS (Health & Dental), VSP (Vision), HealthEquity (HSA, FSA, Dependent Care FSA
  • Employer-paid Long- and Short-Term Disability
  • Paid parental leave
  • Group life insurance through AICPA
  • 12 1/2 paid holidays per year
  • PTO policy starting at 15 days per year
  • 401(k) Profit-Sharing Plan with discretionary 3% employer contribution
  • Paid society memberships, training, and continuing education
  • Eligible for discretionary bonuses based on productivity, performance, and other contributions to the firm