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Entry Level Accounting Associate Jobs in Illinois

RSM Global

Assurance Associate - Fall 2028

Chicago, IL · On-site

$70K - $84K/yr

Accounting major * Travel to assigned client locations is required. Must have access to and ability ... RSM does not intend to hire entry-level candidates who require sponsorship now or in the future.

RSM

Tax Senior Associate - Real Estate

Chicago, IL · On-site

$84K - $104K/yr

Masters of Accounting * CPA, JD, LLM, or EA * Experience with a national or large regional ... RSM does not intend to hire entry level candidates who will require sponsorship now OR in the ...

RSM

Assurance Associate (Fall 2027)

Peoria, IL

$61K - $73K/yr

Accounting major * Travel to assigned client locations is required. Must have access to and ability ... RSM does not intend to hire entry-level candidates who require sponsorship now or in the future.

RSM Global

Assurance Associate (Fall 2027)

Peoria, IL · On-site

$61K - $73K/yr

Accounting major * Travel to assigned client locations is required. Must have access to and ability ... RSM does not intend to hire entry-level candidates who require sponsorship now or in the future.

Praytell

Finance Associate

Chicago, IL · On-site +1

$55K - $65K/yr

The Opportunity As a Finance Associate, you will: * Support the client invoicing process by ... an entry-level role. * A bachelor's degree in Finance, Accounting, Economics or a related ...

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All JobsAccounting Associate JobsEntry Level Accounting Associate JobsEntry Level Accounting Associate Jobs in Illinois

Entry Level Accounting Associate information

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$13

$24

$34

How much do entry level accounting associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level accounting associate in Illinois is $24.15, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.57 and $27.50 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level accounting associates, and how can they be addressed?

Entry Level Accounting Associates often encounter challenges such as managing tight deadlines during month-end closings, adjusting to new accounting software, and ensuring accuracy while handling large volumes of data. To address these challenges, it’s helpful to develop strong organizational habits, seek guidance from more experienced team members, and take advantage of training resources provided by the employer. Open communication with supervisors and actively participating in team meetings can also ease the transition and help associates quickly learn best practices.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level accounting associate, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Accounting Associate, you need a solid understanding of basic accounting principles, attention to detail, and a relevant degree such as a bachelor's in accounting or finance. Familiarity with accounting software like QuickBooks, Microsoft Excel, and enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems is typically expected. Strong organizational skills, effective communication, and a willingness to learn are soft skills that help you stand out. These abilities ensure accuracy in financial records, support smooth workflow, and contribute to effective team collaboration in an accounting environment.

What does an entry level accounting associate do?

An Entry Level Accounting Associate assists with basic accounting tasks such as data entry, processing invoices, reconciling bank statements, and maintaining financial records. They support senior accountants and help ensure that financial transactions are accurately recorded and organized. This role is often the starting point for individuals looking to build a career in accounting, offering valuable exposure to various accounting functions and software.
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Accounting Associate jobs in Illinois? For Entry Level Accounting Associate jobs in Illinois, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Accounting Associate jobs in Illinois look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Accounting Associate jobs in Illinois are:
What cities in Illinois are hiring for Entry Level Accounting Associate jobs? Cities in Illinois with the most Entry Level Accounting Associate job openings:
Entry Level Accounting Associate jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Accounting Associate job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 69% Full Time, 27% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $50,236 per year, or $24.2 per hour.

Assurance Associate - Fall 2028

RSM Global

Chicago, IL • On-site

$70K - $84K/yr

Full-time

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

We are the leading provider of professional services to the middle market globally, our purpose is to instill confidence in a world of change, empowering our clients and people to realize their full potential. Our exceptional people are the key to our unrivaled, culture and talent experience and our ability to be compelling to our clients. You'll find an environment that inspires and empowers you to thrive both personally and professionally. There's no one like you and that's why there's nowhere like RSM.
At RSM, associates work with large and small companies in various industries. They develop strong working relationships with clients built on understanding their businesses and challenges. Associates work on multiple team engagements each year, including several pieces of any particular assignment - not just one part. Working in a mutually respectful team environment helps our associates perform at their best and integrate their career with their personal life.
Responsibilities:
  • Understanding clients' needs and expectations, their business and industry, accounting and control systems, employees, company values and industry-related accounting and financial reporting topics
  • Developing an understanding of the RSM audit approach and tools
  • Assessing risks and evaluating the client's internal control structure
  • Performing substantive tests and tests of internal controls to identify and resolve accounting or reporting issues
  • Drafting financial statements under prescribed formats

Required Qualifications:
  • Minimum B.A / B.S. degree or equivalent from an accredited university by the time employment commences
  • Accounting major
  • Travel to assigned client locations is required. Must have access to and ability to arrange for use of reliable modes of transportation to those locations
  • Ability to travel up to 25%
  • A minimum 3.0 GPA is preferred

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills
  • Strong computer skills, including MS Office
  • Ability to work as an effective member of a team
  • Motivated to work in a fast-paced environment, highly collaborative environment
  • Client focused
  • Ability to multitask

At RSM, we offer a competitive benefits and compensation package for all our people. We offer flexibility in your schedule, empowering you to balance life's demands, while also maintaining your ability to serve clients. Learn more about our total rewards at https://rsmus.com/careers/working-at-rsm/benefits.
All applicants will receive consideration for employment as RSM does not tolerate discrimination and/or harassment based on race; color; creed; sincerely held religious beliefs, practices or observances; sex (including pregnancy or disabilities related to nursing); gender; sexual orientation; HIV Status; national origin; ancestry; familial or marital status; age; physical or mental disability; citizenship; political affiliation; medical condition (including family and medical leave); domestic violence victim status; past, current or prospective service in the US uniformed service; US Military/Veteran status; pre-disposing genetic characteristics or any other characteristic protected under applicable federal, state or local law.
Accommodation for applicants with disabilities is available upon request in connection with the recruitment process and/or employment/partnership. RSM is committed to providing equal opportunity and reasonable accommodation for people with disabilities. If you require a reasonable accommodation to complete an application, interview, or otherwise participate in the recruiting process, please call us at 800-274-3978 or send us an email at careers@rsmus.com.
RSM does not intend to hire entry-level candidates who require sponsorship now or in the future. This includes individuals who will one day request or require RSM to file or complete immigration-related forms or prepare letters on their behalf in order for them to obtain or continue their work authorization.
RSM will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest or conviction records. For those living in California or applying to a position in California, please click here for additional information.
At RSM, an employee's pay at any point in their career is intended to reflect their experiences, performance, and skills for their current role. The salary range (or starting rate for interns and associates) for this role represents numerous factors considered in the hiring decisions including, but not limited to, education, skills, work experience, certifications, location, etc. As such, pay for the successful candidate(s) could fall anywhere within the stated range.
Compensation Range: $70,400 - $84,000
RSM International logo

About RSM International

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

RSM International is a leading global network of audit, tax, and consulting firms. Headquartered in Chicago, Illinois, US, the firm focuses on providing an exceptional range of professional services to empower clients to move forward with confidence. RSM International was established in 1964 and has since grown to encompass firms in more than 120 countries. The firm's mission is guided by a deep understanding of what clients need to help drive their businesses forward, combined with the international reach of RSM firms worldwide.

Industry

Business management consulting

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Chicago, IL, US

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