ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Contract Bookkeeper Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Robert Half

Bookkeeper

Ventura, CA · On-site

$28.50 - $33/hr

We are looking for an experienced Bookkeeper to support a busy organization in Ventura, California through a Contract position. This role will oversee core accounting activities, including payment ...

Robert Half

Bookkeeper

Capitola, CA · On-site

$19.79 - $22.91/hr

We are looking for a detail-oriented Bookkeeper to provide part-time financial support for a ... This contract opportunity offers an initial schedule of 15 hours per week, typically 5 hours per ...

Robert Half

Bookkeeper

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$32.50 - $42.50/hr

We are looking for a Bookkeeper to support a non-profit organization in San Francisco, California through a hands-on Contract position. This role is ideal for someone who brings strong core ...

Robert Half

Part-Time Bookkeeper

San Marcos, CA · On-site

$30 - $35/hr

This contract opportunity has the potential to become permanent and is ideal for someone who enjoys ... Manage routine bookkeeping activities for a manufacturing business, maintaining accurate and timely ...

New

Robert Half

Full Charge Bookkeeper

Carlsbad, CA · 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 ...

Robert Half

Full Charge Bookkeeper

Santee, CA · On-site

$32 - $40/hr

We are looking for a dependable Full Charge Bookkeeper to support accounting and office operations ... This contract opportunity with permanent potential is ideal for someone who can manage day-to-day ...

Myers and Stauffer

Full Charge Bookkeeper

San Diego, CA · 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 ...

CBIZ

Full Charge Bookkeeper

San Diego, CA · 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 ...

CBIZ, Inc.

Full Charge Bookkeeper

San Diego, CA · 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 ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsContract Bookkeeper JobsContract Bookkeeper Jobs in California

Contract Bookkeeper information

See California salary details

$12

$23

$35

How much do contract bookkeeper jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 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 are popular job titles related to Contract Bookkeeper jobs in California?

For Contract Bookkeeper jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Contract Bookkeeper jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Contract 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:

Contract Bookkeeper jobs near you
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

Ventura, CA • On-site

$28.50 - $33/hr

Temporary

Posted 4 days ago

Job description

We are looking for an experienced Bookkeeper to support a busy organization in Ventura, California through a Contract position. This role will oversee core accounting activities, including payment processing, payroll coordination, scholarship disbursements, and donation-related reconciliations. The ideal candidate brings strong bookkeeping knowledge, accuracy in financial recordkeeping, and the ability to manage multiple priorities in a deadline-driven environment.
Responsibilities:
• Manage vendor payments through online bill pay and prepare checks for mailing when needed.
• Partner with Human Resources to support payroll-related activities for a workforce of 21 employees, including both hourly and salaried staff.
• Process required payments to CalPERS and maintain accurate supporting records.
• Administer scholarship disbursements by preparing payment checks, tracking installment schedules, and reconciling awarded amounts.
• Handle a high volume of seasonal scholarship payouts with close attention to timing and accuracy.
• Reconcile donation activity each month between QuickBooks and Raiser’s Edge to ensure complete and accurate reporting.
• Record and monitor incoming donations, maintaining organized financial documentation for regular contribution activity.
• Support day-to-day bookkeeping functions, including accounts payable, accounts receivable, and bank reconciliations.• 5+ years of bookkeeping experience with strong attention to detail.
• Proficiency with QuickBooks in a business or nonprofit accounting environment.
• Hands-on experience with accounts payable, accounts receivable, and bank reconciliation processes.
• Ability to coordinate effectively with HR on payroll support activities.
• Strong attention to detail and accuracy when managing payments and financial records.
• Experience handling high-volume transactions and balancing multiple deadlines.
• Fund accounting experience is highly preferred, particularly in environments with restricted funds or scholarship activity.
Robert Half logo

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

View All Robert Half Jobs