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Chief Accountant Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Thompson Seattle

Chief Accountant

Seattle, WA · On-site

As a Chief Accountant , you will report directly to the Director of Finance and assist in supervising and managing the day-to-day operations as well as ensuring the Accounting Policies & Procedures ...

PaxeraHealth

Chief Accountant

Newton, MA · On-site

We are seeking an experienced Chief Accountant to join our growing medical imaging and healthcare technology organization. This role is critical to maintaining the financial strength of the company ...

PaxeraHealth

Chief Accountant

Newton Center, MA · On-site

We are seeking an experienced Chief Accountant to join our growing medical imaging and healthcare technology organization. This role is critical to maintaining the financial strength of the company ...

Hyatt Hotels Corporation

Chief Accountant

Seattle, WA · On-site

As a Chief Accountant , you will report directly to the Director of Finance and assist in supervising and managing the day-to-day operations as well as ensuring the Accounting Policies & Procedures ...

Four Seasons

Chief Accountant

San Francisco, CA · On-site

The Role - Overview The Chief Accountant supports the Assistant Director of Finance in overseeing all financial aspects of the hotel's operations. This role is responsible for maintaining the ...

City of Burleson, TX

Chief Accountant

Burleson, TX

Responsible for the accounting and financial reporting functions under general direction. Supervises and manages assigned area of the department. NECESSARY KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES: Strong ...

City of Burleson, TX

Chief Accountant

Burleson, TX · On-site

$75K - $113K/yr

Responsible for the accounting and financial reporting functions under general direction. Supervises and manages assigned area of the department. NECESSARY KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES: * Strong ...

Island County

Chief Deputy Auditor

Coupeville, WA

$99K - $107K/yr

Summary A Chief Accountant (or Chief Accounting Officer) oversees all accounting functions, managing day-to-day financial operations, financial reporting, and compliance with GAAP or regulatory ...

City of Burleson, TX

Chief Accountant

Burleson, TX · On-site

$75K - $113K/yr

Responsible for the accounting and financial reporting functions under general direction. Supervises and manages assigned area of the department. NECESSARY KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES: * Strong ...

Four Seasons

Chief Accountant

Nevis, MN · On-site

Understand and possess a working knowledge of the Accounting & Finance Manual * Good understanding of Month-End Process, including but not limited to preparation of financial statements, accruals and ...

Island County, WA

Chief Deputy Auditor

Coupeville, WA · On-site

$99K - $107K/yr

They lead the accounting department, supervise staff, manage audits, and provide strategic financial analysis to optimize accountability. The responsibilities of a chief accounting officer (CAO ...

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Chief Accountant information

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$45.5K

$133.4K

$187.5K

How much do chief accountant jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for chief accountant in the United States is $133,418.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $97,000.00 and $164,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a chief accountant do?

A chief accountant oversees an organization’s accounting operations, including financial reporting, compliance, and internal controls. They prepare financial statements, manage accounting staff, and ensure adherence to accounting standards and regulations, often using accounting software and requiring relevant certifications. Their role is essential for accurate financial management and decision-making.

What are the typical challenges Chief Accountants face when managing month-end and year-end closing processes?

Chief Accountants often encounter challenges during month-end and year-end closings, such as coordinating tight deadlines, ensuring accuracy across multiple ledger accounts, and managing last-minute adjustments. They must collaborate closely with various departments to gather required documentation and resolve discrepancies quickly. Additionally, Chief Accountants are responsible for reviewing and approving financial statements, which requires a strong attention to detail and the ability to handle pressure efficiently. Effective communication and proactive planning are key to overcoming these challenges and ensuring a smooth closing process.

How much does a chief accountant earn?

A chief accountant's salary varies depending on experience, industry, and location, but typically ranges from $60,000 to $120,000 annually. Senior roles with certifications like CPA or CMA and proficiency in accounting software can command higher salaries. Compensation may also include bonuses and benefits based on company size and performance.

Can you make $500,000 a year as an accountant?

Chief accountants in large corporations or specialized fields such as forensic accounting or financial management can potentially earn $500,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced certifications like CPA or CMA, and leadership roles. However, such high salaries are uncommon for entry-level or general accounting positions and typically require significant responsibility and expertise.

What Is a Chief Accountant?

A chief accountant is responsible for a company’s financial management plans. Your job duties as chief accountant include overseeing the accounting department, developing financial strategies, making investment decisions, helping company leadership with strategic planning, and making sure the company complies with state and federal financial regulations. To pursue a career as a chief accountant, you need the following qualifications: a bachelor’s degree in accounting or a related field, significant experience in financial management, licensure as a Certified Public Accountant (CPA), and excellent leadership and communication skills.

What is the difference between Chief Accountant vs Senior Accountant?

AspectChief AccountantSenior Accountant
QualificationsTypically requires a CPA or equivalent, with extensive accounting experienceUsually requires a bachelor's degree in accounting or finance, with several years of experience
Work EnvironmentOversees accounting departments, manages financial reporting, and ensures compliancePerforms complex accounting tasks, prepares financial statements, and supports audits
ResponsibilitiesLeadership of accounting team, financial strategy, and reporting oversightDetailed accounting work, reconciliations, and assisting in financial analysis

The main difference between a Chief Accountant and a Senior Accountant lies in their level of responsibility and scope. The Chief Accountant typically holds a leadership role, overseeing the entire accounting department and ensuring compliance with regulations. In contrast, the Senior Accountant focuses on executing complex accounting tasks and supporting the team. Both roles require strong accounting credentials, but the Chief Accountant's position involves more strategic oversight and management.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Chief Accountant, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Chief Accountant, you need a deep understanding of accounting principles, financial reporting, and regulatory compliance, typically supported by a degree in accounting or finance and relevant certifications such as CPA or ACCA. Expertise in accounting software like SAP, Oracle, or QuickBooks is essential, along with proficiency in spreadsheets and financial analysis tools. Strong analytical thinking, leadership, and effective communication skills help manage teams and liaise with stakeholders. These skills ensure accurate financial management, compliance, and strategic decision-making for organizational success.

Is chief accountant a high position?

A chief accountant is a senior financial professional responsible for overseeing accounting operations, financial reporting, and compliance within an organization. It is generally considered a high-level position that requires extensive experience, accounting certifications such as CPA, and strong leadership skills.
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Chief Accountant jobs near you

Chief Accountant

Thompson Seattle

Seattle, WA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 8 days ago

Job description

As a Chief Accountant , you will report directly to the Director of Finance and assist in supervising and managing the day-to-day operations as well as ensuring the Accounting Policies & Procedures have been implemented where appropriate. You will also responsible for the smooth and efficient running of the Accounting Department within the Administration and General Division. This role will have oversight and manage the purchasing department.
Qualifications:
  • Experience in implementing and managing financial strategies, including internal controls and process redesign initiatives, is preferred
  • Experience in hospitality, cost audit and driving efficiencies in the business is highly desirable
  • Self-motivating, capable of working independently and taking initiatives and adept to multi-tasking environments
  • Detail-oriented, looks beyond surface evidence, and adopts a hands-on approach in performance of work
  • Exhibits inquisitiveness, business acumen, thoughtfulness, diligence, care, and possesses problem-solving skills
  • Good proficiency, knowledge and experience in financial consolidation, accounting standards and tax
  • Clear, concise written and verbal communication skills

You will be responsible for the efficient running of the department in line with Hyatt's Corporate Strategies and brand standards, whilst meeting employee, guest and owner expectations. The Chief Accountant is responsible to assist the Director of Finance in managing the department, through planning, organizing, directing and controlling the Accounting & Finance and Information Systems policies and procedures, operation and administration.

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