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Accounting Internship Opt Jobs in Rochester, NY (NOW HIRING)

Tax Staff Accountant

Rochester, NY · On-site +1

$60K - $64K/yr

... working within a public accounting firm. Internship experience involving auditing or tax ... along with opt-out dollars if you do not need medical ins coverage. In addition, we offer ...

Tax Staff Accountant

Rochester, NY · On-site +1

$60K - $64K/yr

... working within a public accounting firm. Internship experience involving auditing or tax ... along with opt\-out dollars if you do not need medical ins coverage. In addition, we offer ...

Accounting Internship Opt information

See Rochester, NY salary details

$9

$17

$24

How much do accounting internship opt jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for accounting internship opt in Rochester, NY is $17.87, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.19 and $19.23 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Accounting Internship Opt vs Accounting Assistant?

AspectAccounting Internship OptAccounting Assistant
Required CredentialsTypically pursuing or recent graduate in accounting or related fieldUsually requires high school diploma or associate degree, some experience preferred
Work EnvironmentInternship setting, often temporary, in accounting firms or corporate finance departmentsOffice environment, ongoing support role within accounting teams
Employer & Industry UsageUsed by companies to train and evaluate potential future employeesCommon entry-level support role in various industries

In summary, an Accounting Internship Opt is a temporary, educational position aimed at gaining experience, often for students or recent graduates. An Accounting Assistant is a more permanent support role requiring some prior knowledge, assisting with daily accounting tasks within organizations.

What is an Accounting Internship Opt?

An Accounting Internship OPT refers to an internship opportunity in accounting for international students in the U.S. who are on Optional Practical Training (OPT) status. OPT allows eligible F-1 visa students to gain hands-on work experience in their field of study, such as accounting, for up to 12 months after graduation. These internships help students apply classroom knowledge to real-world accounting tasks, build professional networks, and improve their chances of securing a full-time accounting role in the future.

What types of projects or responsibilities can I expect during an Accounting Internship Opt?

During an Accounting Internship OPT, you can expect to work on a variety of tasks such as assisting with bookkeeping, preparing financial reports, supporting audits, and helping with tax preparation. Interns often collaborate with accounting teams and interact with other departments to gather financial data or clarify transactions. This hands-on experience provides exposure to real-world accounting practices and popular software, helping you build a strong foundation for your future career. Additionally, interns may be given the opportunity to attend training sessions or company meetings to further enhance their professional development.

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

To thrive as an Accounting Intern, you generally need a foundational understanding of accounting principles, coursework in finance or accounting, and strong analytical skills. Familiarity with Microsoft Excel, accounting software like QuickBooks, and enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems is typically expected. Attention to detail, time management, and effective communication are standout soft skills in this role. These skills and qualities are crucial for accurately supporting financial operations, meeting deadlines, and collaborating within an accounting team.
What job categories do people searching Accounting Internship Opt jobs in Rochester, NY look for? The top searched job categories for Accounting Internship Opt jobs in Rochester, NY are:
What cities near Rochester, NY are hiring for Accounting Internship Opt jobs? Cities near Rochester, NY with the most Accounting Internship Opt job openings:
2027 Spring/Summer Audit & Tax Internships

2027 Spring/Summer Audit & Tax Internships

Bowers CPA's & Advisors

Syracuse, NY

$20 - $28/hr

Other

Re-posted 19 days ago


Job description

Bowers Accountants & Advisors Internship Program!

Bowers Accountants & Advisors is committed to attracting, developing, and retaining the best people and interns across our firm and business service groups. Bowers Accountants & Advisors is looking for highly motivated, collaborative, and results-oriented Interns who thrive in a fast-paced environment to join our Audit or Tax team for the Audit and Tax 2027 Internship Season!

Work Authorization: Candidates must be authorized to work in the United States without current or future sponsorship. The firm does not provide visa sponsorship, including OPT, STEM OPT, or H-1B sponsorship.

  • Tax internships are in the Spring season (Feb/March timeframe - April 15th)
  • Audit internships are in the Summer (May/June timeframe - August)
  • You can select the season(s) you prefer as you complete our application
  • Bowers Accountants & Advisors is not able to accommodate any type of Sponsorship

Responsibilities

Be a part of our Audit or Tax team and learn the business of Audit or Tax

Plan and prepare Audit services and Tax services as shared by our Audit and Tax Staff

Collaborate with our Audit Staff Accountants and Tax Accountants for further support and learning tools

Become familiar with and effectively utilize software in assigned areas.

Communicate concise and accurate project status updates

Key Objectives

Approach daily responsibilities with the Bowers mission and client-centric philosophy in mind.

Learn about Audit and Tax processes and policies

Develop the ability to identify, understand, and address accounting issues.

Strengthen written and verbal communication skills with colleagues.

Actively participate in firm outings and activities as able.

Qualifications

Active enrollment and a major in Accounting or Finance

Interest in pursuing a career in public accounting

Preferably pursuing the 150-credit-hour academic requirement toward CPA eligibility

Strong organizational, problem-solving, and analytical skills

Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite

Bowers Accountants & Advisors has 2027 internship opportunities in:

Syracuse, Rochester, Ithaca, and Watertown, NY.

Bowers Accountants & Advisors offers a dynamic and collaborative internship program. Our Staff and Partners are dedicated to providing you with the tools and support to learn and expand your knowledge. Our culture offers an open communicative environment with opportunities to engage and be a part of our growing firm!

Great learning atmosphere, opportunities for future hires, return internships, open learning training room with peers, great collaborative culture, Partner visits, training sessions, mentors, catered dinners during busy season, plus much more!

EOE

$20.00-$28.00/hour