Entry Level Accounting Associate Jobs in Seattle, WA

No Third‑Party Recruiters

Please be advised that the firm is not engaging, nor will it engage any third‑party recruiters, staffing agencies, or external placement services for this position. All recruitment activities are being managed internally. Unsolicited outreach, candidate submissions, or agency‑initiated communications will not be considered and will not establish any contractual or financial obligations on behalf of the firm.

**We welcome applicants of all abilities and provide reasonable accommodations throughout the hiring process. We also value diversity and encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds, identities, and experience. Even if you do not meet 100% of the requirements, we encourage you to apply!**

At this time, we are unable to provide visa sponsorship. Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the Unites States without the need for current or future sponsorship.

About Us

Hutchinson & Walter is a CPA firm based in Bellevue, WA. Originally founded in 1977, we are now one of the fastest growing private companies (PSBJ 2025). We are a 100% women‑ and minority‑owned, employee‑owned CPA firm that helps clients make confident, tax‑smart decisions—delivering exceptional federal and state tax preparation, and specialized expertise in complex planning (high‑level tax strategy, estate and trust, wealth, and M&A).

We believe in taking care of our employees, and in return they take care of the business. We offer a robust benefits and PTO package, always have a fully stocked kitchen and cater lunches twice a week during peak season.

We are growing and looking for a detail‑oriented, tech‑savvy Operations Associate to join our team. This role is ideal for someone who loves clean books, thrives in a professional environment, and enjoys supporting a team of CPAs and tax professionals.

Why You Should Apply

Our vision is to be the forever‑home for the best CPAs: a place where diverse talent grows into ownership, complex work is mastered, and our clients and communities are measurably better for trusting us.

We’re looking for someone who is passionate about business tax, values collaboration and is excited about the opportunity to use their experience to help grow our business. We welcome the quirky, those who bring their authentic self to work, who want to make an impact. If you’re someone who thrives in a dynamic environment and enjoys problem-solving, this could be the perfect role for you!

Employer: HUTCHINSON & WALTER CPAs

Job Title: Operations Associate

FLSA Status: Non‑exempt

Reports To: Operations Manager

Location: Bellevue, WA

Compensation: $23-26/hour

Position Summary

The Operations Associate is an entry-level role supporting the day-to-day business operations of Hutchinson & Walter CPAs. This is a great opportunity for someone early in their career to gain hands-on experience in a professional CPA firm. You'll help with administrative tasks, internal coordination, client service, and general office support. No prior accounting or professional-services experience is required. We provide training and mentorship to help you succeed and grow.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Operational Support

• Help maintain and update internal tracking systems, logs, and dashboards for client engagements, deadlines, and deliverables.
• Learn and follow firm processes, workflows, and standard operating procedures, and help keep them up to date.
• Assist with physical and electronic filing of records, including secure storage, retention, and timely destruction according to firm policies.

Client Service Support

• Serve as a friendly first point of contact for client inquiries by phone and in person; direct questions to the right team members.
• Help onboard new clients, including gathering required documents and setting up client profiles in firm systems.
• Assist with preparing and tracking engagement letters under the guidance of licensed professionals.
• Help gather, track, and organize client information and documents received through secure channels.

Administrative and Office Management

• Perform general administrative tasks such as copying, scanning, handling mail, and ordering supplies.
• Help maintain vendor records and monitor basic service levels.
• Assist with coordinating office maintenance, equipment servicing, and facility access needs.
• Open the office and prepare it for client reception.
• Take turns restocking and tidying the kitchen, conference rooms, and other shared spaces.

Data, Systems, and Compliance Support

• Enter and maintain accurate data in practice management, document management, CRM, and time-tracking systems (training provided).
• Help generate routine reports on operational metrics, workload, and deadlines as requested.
• Follow firm policies for information security, confidentiality, and data protection.
• Assist with checklists and controls related to document retention, security, and firm compliance standards.

Other Duties

• Perform other related duties as assigned that are consistent with the role’s overall purpose and the employee’s skills and abilities.
• Participate in ongoing training related to firm systems, processes, confidentiality obligations, and client service practices.

Minimum Qualifications

Education and Experience

• High school diploma or equivalent required; associate or bachelor’s degree in business, accounting, or related field preferred.
• Prior experience in an administrative, operations, or office support role preferred; experience in a professional services or accounting/tax environment is a plus.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Well-organized with good attention to detail and a willingness to manage several tasks at once.
• Comfortable with basic computer tools (Microsoft Office) and eager to learn new software.
• Clear, friendly communication skills, including professional phone and email manners.
• Able to handle confidential information responsibly.
• A team player who is also comfortable working independently once trained.
• A positive, can-do attitude and a genuine willingness to learn and improve.

Physical and Work Environment Requirements

• Ability to remain in a stationary position (sitting or standing) for extended periods while working at a computer.
• Ability to operate standard office equipment (computer, phone, copier, scanner).
• Occasionally move items up to 20 pounds (e.g., files, office supplies).
• Work is generally performed in a professional office environment, with routine use of computers and phones.
• Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the position, in accordance with applicable law.

Schedule and Work Hours

• Full-time
• Typical schedule: Monday–Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., with occasional overtime during peak seasons.
• Some flexibility in hours may be required to meet client or business needs.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

HUTCHINSON & WALTER CPAS is an equal opportunity employer. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, ancestry, age, disability, medical condition, genetic information, marital status, veteran or military status, or any other status protected by applicable federal, state, or local law. We are committed to providing reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities in the application and employment process, consistent with applicable law.