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Accounting Shadowing Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Audit Intern

La Jolla, CA · On-site

$28/hr

Understand the accounting process and ensure entries comply with GAAP, along with the firm ... Job Shadowing: Shadows Senior Associates, Managers, and Partners when performing client meetings.

Audit Intern

La Jolla, CA · On-site

$28/hr

... accounting engagements under the direction of our managers and partners. × Demonstrate ... Setting professional and career goals. ' Job Shadowing: Shadows Senior Associates, Managers, and ...

Audit Intern

La Jolla, CA · On-site

$28/hr

Understand the accounting process and ensure entries comply with GAAP, along with the firm ... Job Shadowing: Shadows Senior Associates, Managers, and Partners when performing client meetings.

Audit Intern

La Jolla, CA · On-site

$28/hr

... accounting engagements under the direction of our managers and partners. × Demonstrate ... Setting professional and career goals. ´ Job Shadowing: Shadows Senior Associates, Managers, and ...

Tax Intern

La Jolla, CA · On-site

$28/hr

Understand the accounting process and ensure entries comply with GAAP, along with the firm ... Job Shadowing: Shadows Senior Associates, Managers, and Partners when performing client meetings.

Tax Intern

La Jolla, CA · On-site

$28/hr

... accounting engagements under the direction of our managers and partners. × Demonstrate ... Setting professional and career goals. ' Job Shadowing: Shadows Senior Associates, Managers, and ...

Tax Intern

La Jolla, CA · On-site

$28/hr

... accounting engagements under the direction of our managers and partners. × Demonstrate ... Setting professional and career goals. ´ Job Shadowing: Shadows Senior Associates, Managers, and ...

... accounting workflows, and system requirements * Rapidly learn the Rillet platform, implementation methodology, and client use cases through hands-on project work, shadowing, and self-directed ...

... accounting workflows, and system requirements * Rapidly learn the Rillet platform, implementation methodology, and client use cases through hands-on project work, shadowing, and self-directed ...

... accounting workflows, and system requirements * Rapidly learn the Rillet platform, implementation methodology, and client use cases through hands-on project work, shadowing, and self-directed ...

... accounting workflows, and system requirements * Rapidly learn the Rillet platform, implementation methodology, and client use cases through hands-on project work, shadowing, and self-directed ...

... accounting workflows, and system requirements * Rapidly learn the Rillet platform, implementation methodology, and client use cases through hands-on project work, shadowing, and self-directed ...

... accounting workflows, and system requirements * Rapidly learn the Rillet platform, implementation methodology, and client use cases through hands-on project work, shadowing, and self-directed ...

... accounting workflows, and system requirements * Rapidly learn the Rillet platform, implementation methodology, and client use cases through hands-on project work, shadowing, and self-directed ...

Payroll Specialist

Yorba Linda, CA · On-site

$30 - $32/hr

This position will begin prior to the leave period to allow for training and shadowing and will ... Partner with accounting and HR teams to support payroll reporting and audits * Utilize payroll ...

Product Manager

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$120K - $150K/yr

ABI's founder has deep roots in technology, including financial accounting, payroll, HRIS, and ... self-study, and internal shadowing to build industry expertise, culminating in knowledge ...

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Accounting Shadowing information

What is accounting shadowing?

Accounting shadowing is an observational learning experience where individuals follow or 'shadow' an accounting professional during their workday. This allows participants to gain firsthand insight into the daily responsibilities, tasks, and challenges accountants face. Shadowing helps aspiring accountants understand the practical applications of accounting principles, workplace dynamics, and industry expectations. It is often used by students or career changers to determine if accounting is the right fit for them and to network with professionals in the field.

What can I expect to learn during an accounting shadowing experience, and how should I prepare to make the most of it?

During an accounting shadowing experience, you’ll observe daily tasks such as managing financial records, preparing reports, and participating in team meetings. You’ll gain insight into how accountants collaborate with colleagues across departments and handle common challenges like tight deadlines or complex data reconciliation. To maximize your learning, review basic accounting principles beforehand, prepare thoughtful questions, and be ready to take notes on workflow and software tools. Shadowing is a valuable way to see real-world accounting practices and build professional connections that can support your career growth.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in an accounting shadowing role, and why are they important?

To thrive in an Accounting Shadowing role, you need a foundational understanding of basic accounting principles, attention to detail, and at least a high school diploma or ongoing coursework in accounting or finance. Familiarity with accounting software such as QuickBooks or Excel is beneficial, though not always required for shadowing positions. Strong communication, curiosity, and willingness to learn help you engage effectively with mentors and absorb practical knowledge. These skills ensure you gain valuable insights, make the most of the learning experience, and build a solid base for a future accounting career.

What is the difference between Accounting Shadowing vs Bookkeeper?

AspectAccounting ShadowingBookkeeper
Required CredentialsNone mandatory; observational experience preferredHigh school diploma or equivalent; certifications like QuickBooks are a plus
Work EnvironmentObservational, often in office settings, shadowing professionalsHands-on, performing daily financial record-keeping tasks
Employer & Industry UsageUsed for career exploration, internships, or training in accounting firmsEmployed directly by businesses or accounting firms to maintain financial records
Comparison Search & IntentPeople exploring accounting careers or gaining industry insightIndividuals seeking entry-level bookkeeping roles or financial record management

Accounting Shadowing involves observing professionals to understand the field without performing tasks, ideal for career exploration. Bookkeepers actively manage financial records, requiring specific skills and certifications. Both roles are common in accounting environments but serve different purposes in career development and daily responsibilities.

What cities in California are hiring for Accounting Shadowing jobs?

Cities in California with the most Accounting Shadowing job openings:

Infographic showing various Accounting Shadowing job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Internship, 33% Full Time, and 17% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

$28/hr

Other

Re-posted 15 days ago


Job description

Audit Intern

Interns are directly supervised by Senior Associates, Managers, and Partners. With having greater knowledge and experience, this individual will be provided the opportunity to assume more difficult assignments and exposure relating to all aspects of our Audit & Accounting engagements while working in a public accounting firm.

Pay Rate: $28.00 per hour

Provide support for various auditing and accounting engagements under the direction of our managers and partners.

Demonstrate understanding of the client's business including analysis and planning of client engagements.

Complete all aspects for engagements including status updates to engagement managers and partners, and adhere to all quality control standards, as required.

Adhere to engagement budget constraints and complete assigned tasks within the time requested and explain variances, when needed.

Develop working knowledge of audit preparation in the office.

Understand the accounting process and ensure entries comply with GAAP, along with the firm's policies and procedures. Develop an innovative approach for continued improvement in efficiency and effectiveness.

Apply the pronouncements of the Financial Accounting Standards Board and the AICPA.

Perform substantive testing of assigned balance sheet and/or income statement accounts, including cash, fixed assets, and accounts payable.

Assist with risk assessment procedures.

Document client's internal control structure and perform test of controls.

Assist with or prepare financial statements and other related reports and the appropriate compilation, review, or audit report.

Shadows Senior Associates, Managers, and Partners when performing client meetings.

Develop and maintain an excellent working relationship with all team members.

Preparation of client assistance requests, appropriate follow-up, and evaluation.

Maintain and comply with the highest degree of professional standards, client confidentiality, and personal conduct.

Complies with Federal, State, and local legal requirements by studying requirements; enforcing adherence to requirements.

Identifying and carrying-out other projects, as assigned.

At the end of the internship, the individual will have been able to directly apply their classroom theories into the workplace, along with the ability to strengthen their personal and professional skillsets.

This individual will advance their knowledge of the qualifications, duties, and responsibilities of an Audit Associate in a public accounting firm. The understanding will help to refine the individuals career path and provide them the information required to make informed decisions about their career path in public accounting.

Throughout this internship, this individual will gain a strong understanding of the high-level expectations placed upon them to be successful in the workplace.

New Hire Orientation: Guidance from Human Resources and their applicable team on company department policies and procedures.

Career Roadmap: Setting professional and career goals.

Job Shadowing: Shadows Senior Associates, Managers, and Partners when performing client meetings.

Provided real work assignments.

Meetings: Reviewing work assignments, projects, and expectations.

Training and workshops.

Educational focus in public accounting, with a strong motivation of becoming a Certified Public Accountant (CPA).

Demonstrated ability to communicate verbally and in writing throughout all levels of the organization, both internally and externally.

Ability to manage deadlines, work on multiple assignments and prioritize each assignment, as necessary.

Strong sense of ownership for delivering high-quality service and excellent customer service, team building, and time management skills.

Technical competencies must include advanced skills with Microsoft Office – specifically with Word and Excel.

Experience with accounting software packages, a plus.