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Cpa Trainee Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Delta Scientific Corporation

Be Seen First

Certified Public Accountant (CPA)

Palmdale, CA · On-site

$75K - $80K/yr

Certified Public Accountant Job Overview : We are seeking a highly skilled and motivated Certified Public Accountant (CPA) to join our dynamic financial team. In this pivotal role, you will leverage ...

AM Advisors

Certified Public Accountant (CPA)

Oakland, CA · On-site

$86K - $118K/yr

CPA We are looking for a highly-analytical certified public accountant (CPA) to join our talented team at AM Advisors. To accomplish your goal of successfully managing our company's tax and financial ...

AM Advisors LLC

Certified Public Accountant (CPA)

Oakland, CA · On-site

$86K - $118K/yr

CPA We are looking for a highly-analytical certified public accountant (CPA) to join our talented team at AM Advisors. To accomplish your goal of successfully managing our company's tax and financial ...

Herbert Financial Group

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Certified Public Accountant (CPA)

Monrovia, CA · On-site

$110K - $150K/yr

Herbert Financial Group is seeking an experienced and motivated Certified Public Accountant (CPA) to join our expanding tax and accounting team. This is an excellent opportunity for a tax ...

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Cpa Trainee information

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$25.5K

$43.5K

$63.5K

How much do cpa trainee jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for cpa trainee in the United States is $43,530.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $33,000.00 and $51,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are CPA trainees?

CPA trainees are individuals who are in the process of completing the practical experience and educational requirements to become a Certified Public Accountant (CPA). They typically work under the supervision of licensed CPAs in accounting firms, corporations, or government agencies, gaining hands-on experience in areas such as auditing, tax preparation, and financial reporting. During this period, trainees often study for and take the CPA exam while developing the skills and competencies needed for full licensure. Successfully completing a CPA traineeship is a key step toward becoming a fully qualified CPA.

What is the difference between Cpa Trainee vs Cpa Associate?

AspectCpa TraineeCpa Associate
CertificationsTypically pursuing CPA license, may have completed some examsUsually has CPA license or is fully qualified
Work EnvironmentTraining-focused, supervised tasksMore independent, client-facing responsibilities
Employer UsageEntry-level, training position in accounting firmsFull-time professional role in accounting firms or corporations

The main difference between a Cpa Trainee and a Cpa Associate is that the trainee is in the learning phase, working under supervision while pursuing CPA certification. The associate is a fully qualified professional handling more complex tasks independently.

How much does a trainee accountant get?

A CPA trainee typically earns between $30,000 and $50,000 annually, depending on location, firm size, and level of experience. Trainees often receive additional benefits such as training, mentorship, and opportunities to earn professional certifications like the CPA exam.

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

To thrive as a CPA Trainee, you need a solid understanding of accounting principles, analytical thinking, and a relevant degree in accounting or finance, often while pursuing a CPA qualification. Familiarity with accounting software like QuickBooks, Excel, and knowledge of ERP systems are commonly expected, along with progress toward CPA exam completion. Strong attention to detail, effective communication, and eagerness to learn set standout candidates apart in this role. These skills are essential for accurate financial reporting, compliance, and developing expertise needed for advancement in the accounting profession.

What are some common challenges faced by CPA trainees during their first year on the job?

CPA trainees often encounter challenges such as adapting to a fast-paced work environment, balancing multiple client deadlines, and quickly learning new accounting software and procedures. It's common to feel overwhelmed by the volume of information and the need to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world scenarios. However, most firms provide structured training, mentorship, and regular feedback to help trainees adjust and develop the necessary skills for success.

What do you do as a trainee accountant?

A CPA trainee assists with preparing financial statements, reconciling accounts, and supporting audit processes under the supervision of licensed accountants. They gain experience in accounting software, compliance standards, and financial reporting while developing their technical skills and understanding of accounting principles.

Is it worth minoring in accounting?

For a CPA trainee, minoring in accounting can provide a solid foundation in key concepts and improve understanding of the field, which may enhance exam preparation and job performance. However, the value depends on your career goals and the relevance of the minor to your desired specialization within accounting. Ultimately, practical experience and CPA exam success are critical for career advancement.

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

As a CPA trainee, earning $500,000 annually is unlikely, as entry-level accounting roles typically offer lower salaries. High earnings in accounting usually come with senior positions such as partner or CFO, which require extensive experience, advanced certifications, and often work in large firms or corporations. Most CPAs start with salaries significantly below that figure during their early career stages.
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Cpa Trainee jobs near you
Infographic showing various Cpa Trainee job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, and 5% Part Time. Highlights an 71% Physical, 16% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,530 per year, or $20.9 per hour.

Certified Public Accountant - Cpa

Stephen Merritt CPA PC

Virginia Beach, VA

$90K/yr

Full-time, Part-time

Posted 7 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