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Associate Certified Public Accountant Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Who We Are Cavanaugh & Co., LLP is a well-established, full-service CPA firm based in Sarasota, Florida. We are built on decades of expertise, trust, and a commitment to excellence. But it's not just ...

Be Seen First

Who We Are Cavanaugh & Co., LLP is a well-established, full-service CPA firm based in Sarasota, Florida. We are built on decades of expertise, trust, and a commitment to excellence. But it's not just ...

Senior Associate (CPA) Our client is a unique and highly specialized advisory firm that partners with a variety of Fortune 1000 companies across all different industries to help them through their ...

Tax Associate CPA

Atlanta, GA · Remote

$56K - $75K/yr

Tax Associate (CPA) - 100% Remote Location: Remote Position Type: Full-Time Industry: Public Accounting About the Opportunity We are partnering with a well-established public accounting firm known ...

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Associate Certified Public Accountant information

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How much do associate certified public accountant jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average yearly pay for associate certified public accountant in the United States is $91,980.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $75,000.00 and $103,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an associate certified public accountant?

An Associate Certified Public Accountant (CPA) is a professional who has passed the CPA exam and typically works under the supervision of a licensed CPA, often early in their accounting career. Associates assist with auditing, tax preparation, financial reporting, and other accounting tasks while gaining practical experience required for full CPA licensure. This role is an important step for those pursuing a career in public accounting, as it provides hands-on experience and mentorship. Associate CPAs often work in accounting firms, corporations, or government agencies.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an associate certified public accountant?

To thrive as an Associate Certified Public Accountant, you need a strong background in accounting principles, financial reporting, and auditing, typically supported by a bachelor’s degree in accounting and passing the CPA exam. Familiarity with accounting software such as QuickBooks, Excel, and enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems is essential, and additional certifications like CPA licensure are highly valued. Attention to detail, analytical thinking, and effective communication are important soft skills for collaborating with clients and team members. These competencies are crucial to ensure accuracy, regulatory compliance, and trust in financial processes.

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

Associate Certified Public Accountants often face challenges such as adapting to fast-paced work environments, managing multiple client deadlines, and learning new accounting software. Building strong organizational habits and proactively seeking feedback can help new associates navigate these challenges. Additionally, collaborating with senior team members and participating in training sessions will accelerate the learning curve and foster professional growth. Establishing clear communication with clients and colleagues is also key to ensuring accuracy and meeting expectations.

What is the difference between Associate Certified Public Accountant vs Staff Accountant?

AspectAssociate Certified Public AccountantStaff Accountant
CertificationsMust pass the CPA exam, meet experience requirements, and obtain licensureNo certification required, but may hold degrees in accounting
Work EnvironmentPublic accounting firms, corporate finance, or government agenciesAccounting departments in companies, public firms, or government
ResponsibilitiesAuditing, tax preparation, financial analysis, and consultingData entry, reconciliations, preparing financial statements, assisting senior staff

The Associate Certified Public Accountant (CPA) typically holds a professional license and performs more complex accounting tasks, including audits and tax services. In contrast, a Staff Accountant generally supports accounting functions without requiring licensure. Both roles are common in public accounting and corporate finance, but the CPA designation signifies a higher level of expertise and responsibility.

Are associate certified public accountants in demand?

Associate Certified Public Accountants (CPAs) are in high demand due to the ongoing need for financial expertise across industries. The profession offers strong job growth prospects, especially for those with specialized skills in auditing, tax, and consulting, and requires passing the CPA exam and maintaining licensure. Demand is expected to remain steady as businesses and organizations require accounting services for compliance and financial management.

What cities are hiring for Associate Certified Public Accountant jobs?

Cities with the most Associate Certified Public Accountant job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Certified Public Accountant jobs?

The most popular types of Certified Public Accountant jobs are:

What states have the most Associate Certified Public Accountant jobs?

States with the most job openings for Associate Certified Public Accountant jobs include:

Certified Public Accountant - Cpa

Stephen Merritt CPA PC

Virginia Beach, VA

$90K/yr

Full-time, Part-time

Re-posted 3 days ago


Job description

Public Accounting Firm located in Virginia Beach, Virginia. SEASONAL, PART-TIME, OR FULL-TIME position. A CPA must be able to multitask and possess exceptional interpersonal and communication skills. Prior public accounting experience is required. No remote work.


Stephen Merritt, CPA, PC, is NOT your typical CPA firm! Clients are always commenting on how fun it would be to work here, and that's because we value our staff's ideas; we offer professional development programs; and we place a high priority on an ideal work/life balance (no take-home work!). We also LOVE to laugh and eat good food. We are a close-knit group, so a candidate must be able to integrate into our office environment.


Must love dogs! Oxford, an English Bulldog, comes to work every day.


What we offer:

  • SEASONAL, PART-TIME, OR FULL-TIME
  • Professional development programs
  • High priority on an ideal work/life balance (no take-home work!)
  • Outstanding company culture


This is not an entry-level position. This is not a remote position. Salary is commensurate with experience.

Compensation:

$90,000 DOE


Responsibilities:
  • Tax Return Preparation 990, 1040, 1041, 1065, 1120, and 1120S
  • Prepare audits, reviews, and compilations
  • Interact with internal and external auditors in completing audits. Meet and establish relationships with new and existing clients
  • Other accounting and tax functions as well
  • Stay updated with the latest accounting trends and regulatory changes to provide informed advice

Qualifications:
  • 3+ years of experience in public accounting
  • CPA Certification with extensive tax preparation experience
  • Detail-oriented and analytical skills
  • Excellent communication and analytical skills, coupled with proficiency in QuickBooks, Microsoft Excel, and Word, as well as tax preparation software
  • In addition, an ability to work independently or as part of a team and the capacity to appropriately interact with all levels of Firm management and staff, clients, and other external business contacts are required

About Company

Stephen Merritt, CPA, PC, is dedicated to providing tax preparation and accounting services for small and medium-sized businesses as well as their families throughout the Hampton Roads area. It is our goal to maintain a strong relationship with clients. We attribute our firm's current growth to client referrals, which only occurs because our top priority is client satisfaction. www.stephenmerritt.com