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Contract Bookkeeper Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Bookkeeper

Royal Oaks, CA ยท On-site

$25.65 - $29.70/hr

This Long-term Contract opportunity is ideal for someone who enjoys balancing core bookkeeping work with general office support in a flexible, part-time arrangement. The role offers approximately 15 ...

Full Charge Bookkeeper

Santa Barbara, CA ยท On-site

$27.71 - $32.09/hr

This Contract to Permanent position is ideal for someone who can manage core accounting activities ... The role requires hands-on experience with bookkeeping functions, strong organization, and ...

Full Charge Bookkeeper

Carlsbad, CA ยท On-site

$33.25 - $38.50/hr

The role begins onsite during the contract period, with the possibility of hybrid flexibility based on performance and business needs. Responsibilities: * Manage full-cycle bookkeeping for a ...

The Bookkeeper/Accountant is expected to dependably and reliably perform the following : 1) Manage ... various contracts and submit to customers in a timely manner, then track accounts receivable and ...

Full Charge Bookkeeper

San Diego, CA ยท Hybrid

$53K - $71K/yr

May prepare corporate tax returns, client billing, engagement letters and contracts * May complete bookkeeping and accounting duties for clients. This includes organizing and preparing work papers ...

Full Charge Bookkeeper

San Diego, CA ยท On-site

$53K - $71K/yr

May prepare corporate tax returns, client billing, engagement letters and contracts * May complete bookkeeping and accounting duties for clients. This includes organizing and preparing work papers ...

Full Charge Bookkeeper

San Diego, CA ยท Hybrid

$53K - $71K/yr

May prepare corporate tax returns, client billing, engagement letters and contracts * May complete bookkeeping and accounting duties for clients. This includes organizing and preparing work papers ...

... contracts with related outside vendors Qualifications Experience 2+ years of accounting experience, 1+ year of HR experience Intermediate experience with QuickBooks Experts in MS Excel Excellent ...

Bookkeeping Manager

Modesto, CA ยท On-site

$48K - $57K/yr

Our client in Modesto is looking to fill their Bookkeeping Manager position! Responsibilities ... Contract Our contract candidate service allows our clients to utilize a candidate on a contract or ...

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Showing results 1-20

Contract Bookkeeper information

See California salary details

$12

$23

$35

How much do contract bookkeeper jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for contract bookkeeper in California is $24.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.47 and $27.26 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a contract bookkeeper?

A contract bookkeeper is a financial professional who is hired on a temporary or part-time basis to manage a company's financial records. Their responsibilities typically include recording transactions, reconciling accounts, managing payroll, and preparing basic financial reports. Unlike full-time employees, contract bookkeepers work as independent contractors and may serve multiple clients at once. This flexibility allows businesses to access bookkeeping expertise as needed, without committing to a permanent hire.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a contract bookkeeper?

To thrive as a Contract Bookkeeper, you need a solid understanding of accounting principles, attention to detail, and experience with financial record-keeping, often supported by a degree in accounting or bookkeeping and relevant experience. Proficiency with accounting software such as QuickBooks, Xero, or Sage, along with familiarity with spreadsheets and invoicing systems, is typically required. Strong organizational skills, integrity, and effective communication enable bookkeepers to manage multiple clients and maintain trust. These abilities are crucial for ensuring accurate financial records, compliance, and successful client relationships.

How do contract bookkeepers typically manage communication and workflow with multiple clients simultaneously?

Contract bookkeepers often juggle several clients at once, so strong organizational and communication skills are essential. Most use cloud-based accounting software and project management tools to track deliverables, deadlines, and client correspondence. Regularly scheduled check-ins, clear documentation, and setting expectations upfront help ensure each client receives prompt, accurate service. It's common to work both independently and collaboratively with clients' accountants or finance teams to resolve discrepancies and prepare reports.

What is the difference between Contract Bookkeeper vs Part-Time Bookkeeper?

AspectContract BookkeeperPart-Time Bookkeeper
CredentialsTypically requires bookkeeping certifications or experienceSimilar credentials, often with less emphasis on formal certifications
Work EnvironmentFreelance or remote, project-basedUsually in-office or remote, scheduled hours
Employer UsageHired for specific projects or short-term needsEmployed for ongoing part-time work
Search IntentContract Bookkeeper vs Part-Time Bookkeeper

Both roles involve bookkeeping skills and similar credentials, but Contract Bookkeepers typically work on a project basis, often remotely, and are hired for specific tasks. Part-Time Bookkeepers usually have scheduled hours and may work in-office or remotely for ongoing support. The choice depends on whether you need temporary, project-based help or consistent, part-time assistance.

How to become a contract bookkeeper?

To become a contract bookkeeper, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, along with proficiency in accounting software such as QuickBooks or Xero. Gaining relevant experience through internships or entry-level positions and obtaining certifications like the Certified Bookkeeper (CB) can improve job prospects. Strong organizational skills and attention to detail are essential for success in this role.

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

The most popular types of Bookkeeper jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Contract Bookkeeper jobs?

Cities in California with the most Contract Bookkeeper job openings:

Infographic showing various Contract Bookkeeper job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 74% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $49,911 per year, or $24 per hour.

Bookkeeper

Robert Half

Royal Oaks, CA โ€ข On-site

$25.65 - $29.70/hr

Temporary

This job post hasย expired today.ย Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

We are looking for a detail-oriented Part-time Bookkeeper to support financial operations for a non-profit organization in Royal Oaks, California. This Long-term Contract opportunity is ideal for someone who enjoys balancing core bookkeeping work with general office support in a flexible, part-time arrangement. The role offers approximately 15–20 hours per week and focuses on maintaining accurate records, supporting day-to-day transactions, and assisting with administrative needs as they arise.


Responsibilities:

• Maintain accurate financial records by recording daily transactions and keeping bookkeeping data current and organized.

• Process outgoing payments and incoming receipts while monitoring accounts payable and accounts receivable activity.

• Complete bank and account reconciliations to help ensure financial information is balanced and reliable.

• Prepare and post journal entries with attention to proper documentation and accounting accuracy.

• Use QuickBooks to manage bookkeeping tasks, generate financial information, and support routine reporting needs.

• Provide office and administrative assistance as needed to help support overall departmental operations.

• Collaborate with internal leadership to address bookkeeping priorities and help keep financial processes running smoothly.

• At least 3 years of bookkeeping experience, preferably in a small organization or non-profit setting.
• Hands-on experience using QuickBooks for day-to-day accounting and financial recordkeeping.
• Working knowledge of accounts payable, accounts receivable, bank reconciliations, and journal entry preparation.
• Ability to manage part-time responsibilities efficiently while maintaining a high level of accuracy and organization.
• Comfortable assisting with administrative and office support tasks in addition to bookkeeping duties.
• Strong attention to detail and the ability to handle confidential financial information with professionalism.
• Effective communication skills and the ability to work independently in either a remote or onsite environment.

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About Robert Half

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Founded in 1948, Robert Half pioneered the idea of professional talent solutions to connect opportunities at great companies with highly skilled job seekers. As business needs changed, we evolved to offer specialized talent solutions for finance and accounting, technology, administrative and customer support, creative and marketing, and legal fields. In 2002, we introduced our subsidiary, Protiviti, a global independent risk consulting and internal audit service, to support companies as they faced more strategic business challenges.

Industry

Recruiting and staffing services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

San Ramon, CA, US

Year founded

1948