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Accounting Associate Jobs in Columbus, WI (NOW HIRING)

Staff Accountant

Sun Prairie, WI · On-site

$53K - $70K/yr

Two-year accounting associate degree or 5 years of directly related accounting experience with a CPA firm. * Ability to work fully onsite at one of our offices. * Willingness to be cross-trained to ...

Accounting Specialist

Sun Prairie, WI · Hybrid

$42K - $73K/yr

Associate's degree in Accounting or a related field (Bachelor's degree preferred) or equivalent combination of education and experience. * Proven ability to build trust with clients, communicate ...

New

Accounting Supervisor

Madison, WI · On-site

$90 - $120/hr

This is more than a traditional accounting role. It's an opportunity to become a trusted resource for healthcare business owners while supervising staff, managing client engagements, developing ...

Accounting Manager

Randolph, WI · On-site

$80K - $100K/yr

Bachelor's or Associate's degree in Accounting or Finance * Knowledge of finance, accounting, budgeting, and cost control principles. * Must have a strong solid understanding of debits, credits, and ...

New

Accounting Manager CPA/EA

Madison, WI · On-site

$120 - $155/hr

Accounting Manager (Healthcare), CPA/EA Healthcare Advisory | Client Leadership | Practice Growth | Great Place to Work ® Compensation: $120,000-$155,000 Base + Bonus + Leadership Advancement ...

Accounting Manager, CPA

Madison, WI · On-site

$120 - $160/hr

Accounting Manager (Real Estate & LIHTC), CPA Affordable Housing | Real Estate Advisory | Client Leadership | Great Place to Work Compensation: $120,000-$160,000 Base + Bonus + Leadership Advancement ...

Accounting Clerk

Madison, WI · On-site

$18.75 - $24/hr

The Accounting is responsible for providing support to the accounting department including processing, recording, updating and reconciling fiscal information in compliance with established policies ...

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Accounting Associate information

See Columbus, WI salary details

$15

$28

$40

How much do accounting associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for accounting associate in Columbus, WI is $28.10, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.74 and $31.97 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 Columbus, WI?

The most popular types of Accounting jobs in Columbus, WI are:

What cities near Columbus, WI are hiring for Accounting Associate jobs?

Cities near Columbus, WI with the most Accounting Associate job openings:

Infographic showing various Accounting Associate job openings in Columbus, WI as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $58,440 per year, or $28.1 per hour.

Accounting Associate (CAAS - Technology Industry)

Cliftonlarsonallen

Madison, WI • On-site

$55K - $95K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 23 days ago


CliftonLarsonAllen rating

7.1

Company rating: 7.1 out of 10

Based on 30 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

22nd of 23 rated bookkeepers and accountants


Job description

CLA is a top 10 national professional services firm where our purpose is to create opportunities every day, for our clients, our people, and our communities through industry-focused wealth advisory, digital, audit, tax, consulting, and outsourcing services. Even with more than 9,000 people, 130 U.S. locations, and a global reach, we promise to know you and help you.

CLA is dedicated to building a culture that invites different beliefs and perspectives to the table, so we can truly know and help our clients, communities, and each other.

CLA is currently seeking an Accounting Associate to join our CAAS (Client Accounting & Advisory Services) Technology industry team based out of our Minneapolis MN, Dallas TX, Charlotte NC, or Madison WI office.

Job Responsibilities:

  • Client Service: Gains ability to handle multiple clients, software, and chart of accounts daily, weekly and monthly basis.

  • Day to Day Transactions: Coordinates & processes accounts payable, cash disbursements, accounts receivable, cash receipts, and payroll.

  • Month End Processing: Completes financial statements. Coordinates and completes account reconciliations (i.e. bank & credit card reconciliations, prepaids, accounts receivable, fixed assets, accounts payable, accruals.) Completes complex account reconciliations that have been previously set up and supported by Senior Associate, Assistant Controller, Controller or CFO.

  • Quarterly/Annual Processing: Completes sales tax returns, Form 1099s and other forms or items as requested by clients.

Job Requirements:

  • Accounting and financial experience is preferred.

  • Bachelor's degree is required. Combination of related experience, education, and training may be accepted in lieu of degree.

Our approach to compensation emphasizes collaboration and career growth. We pay competitive wages and view compensation as an investment in our people. Factors such as geography, experience, education, skills, and knowledge may impact position of pay within the range.

The compensation range for this position in Minnesota is: $55,000.00 - $95,000.00


#LI-NM1


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Wellness at CLA

To support our CLA family members, we focus on their physical, financial, social, and emotional well-being and offer comprehensive benefit options that include health, dental, vision, 401k and much more.


To view a complete list of benefits, click here.



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About CliftonLarsonAllen

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

CliftonLarsonAllen (CLA) is a leading professional services company based in Minneapolis, MN, US. CLA operates in the accounting industry and offers a broad range of products and services such as wealth advisory, outsourcing, audit, tax, and consulting services. The company was founded in 1953 with a merger between two firms, Clifton Gunderson and LarsonAllen, in 2012. Working in accordance with their mission to create opportunities for clients, people, and communities, they have established a presence across the US, serving privately held businesses, non-profits, and governmental entities. Recognized for their contributions, CLA has received accolades such as the Innovative Firm of the Year award.

Industry

Accounting services

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Minneapolis, MN, US

Year founded

2012