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Associate Accountant Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

ADP is hiring an Accountant. * Do you enjoy analyzing financial data, researching discrepancies ... Courage comes from how associates are willing to have difficult conversations, speak up, be an ...

ADP is hiring an Accountant. * Do you enjoy analyzing financial data, researching discrepancies ... Courage comes from how associates are willing to have difficult conversations, speak up, be an ...

Audit Senior Associate

San Diego, CA ยท Hybrid

$86K - $105K/yr

With industry knowledge and expertise in accounting, tax, advisory, benefits, insurance, and ... Review associates' accounting, tax or auditing work: provide constructive review points * May ...

Audit Senior Associate

San Diego, CA ยท Hybrid

$86K - $105K/yr

With industry knowledge and expertise in accounting, tax, advisory, benefits, insurance, and ... Review associates' accounting, tax or auditing work: provide constructive review points * May ...

Audit Senior Associate

San Diego, CA ยท On-site

$86K - $106K/yr

Complete all aspects of accounting, tax and audit engagements for clients including status updates ... Review associates' accounting, tax or auditing work: provide constructive review points * May ...

Audit Senior Associate

San Diego, CA ยท On-site

$86K - $106K/yr

Complete all aspects of accounting, tax and audit engagements for clients including status updates ... Review associates' accounting, tax or auditing work: provide constructive review points * May ...

Audit Senior Associate

San Diego, CA ยท Hybrid

$86K - $105K/yr

With industry knowledge and expertise in accounting, tax, advisory, benefits, insurance, and ... Review associates' accounting, tax or auditing work: provide constructive review points * May ...

Audit Senior Associate

San Diego, CA ยท Hybrid

$86K - $105K/yr

With industry knowledge and expertise in accounting, tax, advisory, benefits, insurance, and ... Review associates' accounting, tax or auditing work: provide constructive review points * May ...

Associate (3+ Years Required) Education: Bachelors Degree in Accounting or Business Administration (Accountancy Concentration) About the Role We are seeking a detail-oriented Accountant to perform ...

Audit Senior Associate | SEC

San Francisco, CA ยท On-site

$95K - $117K/yr

Complete all aspects of accounting, tax and audit engagements for clients including status updates ... Review associates' accounting, tax or auditing work: provide constructive review points * May ...

Adecco is currently assisting a local Customer in their search for Accountant III - Group ... In addition, our associates may be eligible for paid leave including Paid Sick Leave or any other ...

Be Seen First

Accountant

Irvine, CA ยท On-site

$27 - $29/hr

Associate Degree in accounting or related accounting studies. EXPERIENCE: * 3 years of proven and sufficient accounting work experience, especially in a corporate setting, preferred. KNOWLEDGE ...

We are seeking an Accounting Associate to become an integral part of our team! You will be responsible for preparing and analyzing financial records for an innovative and expanding international ...

Showing results 21-40

Associate Accountant information

See California salary details

$32.1K

$56K

$79.9K

How much do associate accountant jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for associate accountant in California is $56,040.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $46,900.00 and $63,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an associate accountant?

Associate Accountants are entry-level professionals who assist with the preparation, maintenance, and analysis of financial records in organizations. Their duties typically include bookkeeping, processing invoices, reconciling accounts, and supporting audits. They work under the supervision of senior accountants or accounting managers and play a key role in ensuring financial accuracy and compliance. This position is often a stepping stone to more advanced accounting roles as individuals gain experience and professional certifications.

What does an associate accountant do?

An associate accountant manages payments and accounts receivables at a company. In this career, your duties and responsibilities include reviewing invoices, audits, fund requests from various departments within the business, and financial records. You also perform data entry and file accounting data from the different departments and analyze the information. You may also be responsible for checking the work of other accountants to ensure it is mathematically and factually accurate. As an associate accountant, you are required to follow all state and federal compliance laws.

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

To thrive as an Associate Accountant, you need a strong grasp of accounting principles, attention to detail, and a relevant degree such as a bachelor's in accounting or finance. Familiarity with accounting software like QuickBooks or SAP, as well as proficiency in Microsoft Excel, is typically required, and some roles may prefer candidates with CPA certification or progress toward it. Strong organizational skills, analytical thinking, and effective communication help you manage tasks efficiently and collaborate with colleagues. These skills and qualifications ensure accurate financial reporting, compliance with regulations, and contribute to the overall effectiveness of the accounting team.

What are some common challenges faced by associate accountants in their first year, and how can they overcome them?

In their first year, Associate Accountants often encounter challenges such as adapting to complex accounting software, managing tight deadlines during month-end close, and balancing multiple tasks. Building strong organizational skills and proactively seeking guidance from senior team members can help ease the transition. Regular communication with colleagues and participating in team meetings also support knowledge sharing and problem-solving, making it easier to adjust to the fast-paced environment.

What is the difference between Associate Accountant vs Staff Accountant?

AspectAssociate AccountantStaff Accountant
Required CredentialsTypically a bachelor's degree in accounting or related field; certifications like CPA are a plusSame as Associate Accountant, often with CPA or CPA candidate status
Work EnvironmentEntry-level accounting department, corporate or public accounting firmsSimilar environment, often with more responsibilities
Employer & Industry UsageUsed across industries for entry-level roles in accounting teamsCommonly used interchangeably with Associate Accountant in many firms

Associate Accountants and Staff Accountants often have overlapping roles, requiring similar education and certifications. The main difference is often in job titles used by employers, with both roles serving as entry points into accounting careers. Both positions involve supporting financial reporting, reconciliations, and audit preparations, making them comparable in responsibilities and work environment.

What is the lowest position in associate accountant?

The lowest position in the accounting field related to associate accountant roles is typically an entry-level position such as accounting clerk or junior accountant. These roles often require basic accounting knowledge, attention to detail, and sometimes an associate degree or relevant certification. Advancement usually involves gaining experience and additional certifications like CPA or CMA.

What are the most commonly searched types of Accountant jobs in California?

The most popular types of Accountant jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Associate Accountant jobs in California?

For Associate Accountant jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Associate Accountant jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Associate Accountant jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Associate Accountant jobs?

Cities in California with the most Associate Accountant job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Associate Accountant jobs in CA?

For Associate Accountant jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Associate Accountant job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 71% Full Time, 25% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $56,040 per year, or $26.9 per hour.

Enterprise General Ledger Staff

Department of Water Resources

Sacramento, CA โ€ข On-site

$6.3K - $7.9K/mo

Full-time

Posted 11 days ago


Job description

Under direction of the Accounting Administrator I (Supervisor), over the General Ledger unit, the Associate Accounting Analyst independently performs complex duties and responsibilities and assists all positions within the Financial Reporting and Compliance Branch. This position's primary responsibility includes complex financial and accounting transactions such as analyzing, interpreting, and implementing GASB pronouncements, reconciling and preparing General Accepted Accounting Principle (GAAP) Financial Statements, Annual Comprehensive Financial Report, and Budgetary/Legal Basis Financial Statements. Implementing Governmental Accounting Standard Board (GASB) pronouncements and contributing to day-to-day cost reallocation, asset creation, disposition, reconciliation. This includes detailed researching, analyzing, and preparing journal ledger entries and providing recommendations or alternatives regarding the complex assets that impact fiscal year-end financial reporting.
You will find additional information about the job in the Duty Statement .
Minimum Requirements You will find the Minimum Requirements in the Class Specification.
  • ASSOCIATE ACCOUNTING ANALYST
Additional Documents
  • Job Application Package Checklist
  • Duty Statement

Position Details Job Code #:
JC-519244
Position #(s):
840-226-4588-XXX
Working Title:
Enterprise General Ledger Staff
Classification:
ASSOCIATE ACCOUNTING ANALYST $6,330.00 - $7,929.00 A
New to State candidates will be hired into the minimum salary of the classification or minimum of alternate range when applicable.
# of Positions:
1
Work Location:
Sacramento County
Telework:
Hybrid
Job Type:
Permanent, Full Time
Department Information
Division of Fiscal Services/ Financial Reporting and Compliance Branch/General Ledger Section, Sacramento
Department of Water Resources (DWR) was established in 1956 by the California State Legislature. We manage California's water resources, systems, and infrastructure, including the State Water Project, in a responsible sustainable way.
At DWR, we are embedding climate change response into every project we undertake. We have set standards to help evaluate how each project incorporates climate resilience principles and ensure consistency across the Department. Our mission is to sustainably manage the water resources of California, in cooperation with other agencies, to benefit the state's people and protect, restore, and enhance the natural and human environments.
DWR also strives to create a trusting and welcoming workplace where employees embrace diverse viewpoints and treat each other with civility and respect. An important component of DWR's equal employment opportunity program centers around justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion.
Department Website: https://water.ca.gov/
Free virtual career consultation services including one-on-one DWR career consultations, application/resume review, tips for applying, and mock interviews, provided by DWR's Recruitment and Workforce Planning section can now be scheduled via https://water.ca.gov/About/Careers.
Application Instructions
Completed applications and all required documents must be received or postmarked by the Final Filing Date in order to be considered. Dates printed on Mobile Bar Codes, such as the Quick Response (QR) Codes available at the USPS, are not considered Postmark dates for the purpose of determining timely filing of an application.
Final Filing Date: 8/17/2026
Who May Apply
Individuals who are currently in the classification, eligible for lateral transfer, eligible for reinstatement, have list or LEAP eligibility, are in the process of obtaining list eligibility, or have SROA and/or Surplus eligibility (please attach your letter, if available). SROA and Surplus candidates are given priority; therefore, individuals with other eligibility may be considered in the event no SROA or Surplus candidates apply. Applications will be screened and only the most qualified applicants will be selected to move forward in the selection process. Applicants must meet the Minimum Qualifications stated in the Classification Specification(s).
How To Apply
Complete Application Packages (including your Examination/Employment Application (STD 678) and applicable or required documents) must be submitted to apply for this Job Posting. Application Packages may be submitted electronically through your CalCareer Account at www.CalCareers.ca.gov. When submitting your application in hard copy, a completed copy of the Application Package listing must be included. If you choose to not apply electronically, a hard copy application package may be submitted through an alternative method listed below:
Address for Mailing Application Packages
You may submit your application and any applicable or required documents to:
Department of Water Resources
Mailing Address
Attn: Division of Human Resources
P.O. Box 1079
Sacramento , CA 95812
Address for Drop-Off Application Packages
You may drop off your application and any applicable or required documents at:
Department of Water Resources
Submit in Person
Certification Desk
715 P Street, 7th floor
Sacramento , CA 95814
08:00 AM - 04:30 PM
Required Application Package Documents
The following items are required to be submitted with your application. Applicants who do not submit the required items timely may not be considered for this job:
  • Current version of the State Examination/Employment Application STD Form 678 (when not applying electronically), or the Electronic State Employment Application through your Applicant Account at www.CalCareers.ca.gov. All Experience and Education relating to the Minimum Qualifications listed on the Classification Specification should be included to demonstrate how you meet the Minimum Qualifications for the position.
  • Resume is optional. It may be included, but is not required.
  • School Transcripts
  • Statement of Qualifications - See Special Instructions for additional details.
Applicants requiring reasonable accommodations for the hiring interview process must request the necessary accommodations if scheduled for a hiring interview. The request should be made at the time of contact to schedule the interview. Questions regarding reasonable accommodations may be directed to the EEO contact listed on this job posting.
Desirable Qualifications In addition to evaluating each candidate's relative ability, as demonstrated by quality and breadth of experience, the following factors will provide the basis for competitively evaluating each candidate:
  • Knowledge of and understanding of Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP).
  • Knowledge of governmental accounting principles and procedures.
  • Familiar with Trial Balance
  • At least one to two years of actual experience from General Ledger and Financial Reporting.
  • Ability to plan, organize, take initiative, and exercise good judgement.
  • Strong organization and time management skills.
  • Ability to work cooperatively and independently.
  • Excellent oral, written, and analytical skills.
  • Detail oriented, focused on accuracy, and ability to meet deadlines.
  • Knowledge of Microsoft Excel programs and automated accounting systems.
  • Maintain consistent and regular attendance.

Benefits
Click here to read about the outstanding benefits offered to eligible employees.
Personal Leave Program 2025: Effective July 1, 2025, state employees are subject to temporary wage reductions in exchange for Personal Leave Program (PLP) accruals. The specific rate and hours earned were negotiated and agreed upon by each bargaining unit. The actual monetary impact of these temporary reductions can vary based on your bargaining unit and/or federal and state tax withholdings. For additional information please visit Human Resources Manual - CalHR
Contact Information
The Hiring Unit Contact is available to answer questions regarding the position or application process.
Hiring Unit Contact:
Michael Oprean
(916) 902-7498
michael.oprean@water.ca.gov
Please direct requests for Reasonable Accommodations to the interview scheduler at the time the interview is being scheduled. You may direct any additional questions regarding Reasonable Accommodations or Equal Employment Opportunity for this position(s) to the Department's EEO Office.
EEO Contact:
Office of Civil Rights
(916) 653-6952
civilrights@water.ca.gov
California Relay Service: 1-800-735-2929 (TTY), 1-800-735-2922 (Voice) TTY is a Telecommunications Device for the Deaf, and is reachable only from phones equipped with a TTY Device.
Special Instructions
To be considered, submit a completed State application (STD. 678), Statement of Qualifications and Unofficial Transcripts. Please reference SAP Position # 50027277 and Job Control # 519244 in the "examination(s) or job title(s) for which you are applying" section of your application.
The hiring unit will receive only the documents specified in the Required Application Package Documents section.
Statement of Qualifications: A one-page maximum document typed in Arial 12-pt font that describes how the applicant's knowledge, skills, and experience qualify him or her for the position.
The following basis of eligibility will be considered: List eligibility, transfer, LEAP, reinstatement, and SROA/Surplus.
This is a readvertisement. If you previously submitted an application package, it remains under consideration and you do not need to reapply.
Resumes, cover letters, and/or other attachments will not be accepted in lieu of a completed application.
Click here to complete DWR's Recruitment Survey . This survey is for research purpose only and will not affect the application status.
Examination/Assessment
For more information about the State hiring process, click here . To learn more about how to get a State job, click here .
List eligibility can be established by taking and passing the examination/assessment.
Click the examination(s)/assessment(s) information link:
ASSOCIATE ACCOUNTING ANALYST
Equal Opportunity Employer
The State of California is an equal opportunity employer to all, regardless of age, ancestry, color, disability (mental and physical), exercising the right to family care and medical leave, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, marital status, medical condition, military or veteran status, national origin, political affiliation, race, religious creed, sex (includes pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding and related medical conditions), and sexual orientation.
It is an objective of the State of California to achieve a drug-free work place. Any applicant for state employment will be expected to behave in accordance with this objective because the use of illegal drugs is inconsistent with the law of the State, the rules governing Civil Service, and the special trust placed in public servants.