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Entry Level Accounting Jobs in Maine (NOW HIRING)

Accountant II

Portland, ME · Hybrid

$65K - $75K/yr

This candidate must be local to the Southern Maine Area and have a minimum of 3 years accounting experience . The Accountant II is responsible for accurately performing daily, weekly, monthly, and ...

New

Accountant II

Portland, ME · Hybrid

$65K - $75K/yr

This candidate must be local to the Southern Maine Area and have a minimum of 3 years accounting experience . The Accountant II is responsible for accurately performing daily, weekly, monthly, and ...

New

Accountant II

Portland, ME · Hybrid

$65K - $75K/yr

This candidate must be local to the Southern Maine Area and have a minimum of 3 years accounting experience . The Accountant II is responsible for accurately performing daily, weekly, monthly, and ...

New

Staff Accountant

Bangor, ME · On-site

$53K - $59K/yr

Reporting directly to the Accounting Manager, this entry-level role is responsible for carrier commission reconciliations, agency/direct bill processing, premium trust account maintenance, bank ...

Reporting directly to the Accounting Manager, this entry-level role is responsible for carrier commission reconciliations, agency/direct bill processing, premium trust account maintenance, bank ...

Entry Level Accounting information

See Maine salary details

$11

$19

$28

How much do entry level accounting jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level accounting in Maine is $19.67, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.78 and $21.39 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an entry level accounting job?

An entry level accounting job is a position designed for individuals who are new to the accounting field, often recent graduates or those with limited professional experience. These roles typically involve tasks such as data entry, maintaining financial records, assisting with audits, and supporting senior accountants with basic accounting functions. Entry level accountants help ensure the accuracy of financial documents and compliance with relevant laws, providing a foundation for career growth in accounting. Common job titles include Accounting Clerk, Junior Accountant, or Accounts Payable/Receivable Specialist.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level accountant?

To thrive as an Entry Level Accountant, you need a solid grasp 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 or Microsoft Excel and knowledge of ERP systems are typically required. Strong analytical thinking, organizational skills, and effective communication help you stand out in this role. These skills and qualities are essential to ensure accurate financial records, compliance, and efficient collaboration within the team.

What can I expect from the training and onboarding process in an entry level accounting position?

In an entry level accounting role, you can typically expect a structured onboarding process that includes orientation on company policies, training on accounting software and systems, and guidance on standard operating procedures. Many firms provide mentorship from senior accountants or supervisors to help you learn essential tasks such as data entry, reconciliations, and preparing basic financial reports. The initial weeks are often focused on developing your familiarity with company-specific processes, and you'll gradually take on more responsibility as you demonstrate proficiency. Team collaboration is common, and you'll likely work closely with colleagues in finance and other departments to ensure accurate record-keeping and reporting.

What is the difference between Entry Level Accounting vs Bookkeeper?

AspectEntry Level AccountingBookkeeper
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or associate's degree; some roles may require accounting certificationsHigh school diploma; certifications like QuickBooks Certified User are common but not mandatory
Work EnvironmentOffice setting, accounting departments, finance firmsOffice or remote, often in small businesses or accounting firms
Employer & Industry UsageUsed across various industries for financial record-keeping and basic accounting tasksPrimarily in small to medium businesses managing daily financial transactions

Entry Level Accounting and Bookkeeper roles share similar credentials and work environments, but Entry Level Accounting often involves broader financial tasks and analysis, while Bookkeepers focus mainly on recording daily transactions. Both roles are essential for maintaining accurate financial records in various industries.

How do I get an entry level accounting job with no experience?

Entry level accounting positions often require basic knowledge of accounting principles and proficiency with spreadsheet software like Excel. Gaining relevant skills through online courses, internships, or volunteering can improve your chances, and obtaining certifications such as the Fundamentals of Accounting can also be beneficial.

What is a good first entry level accounting job?

A common first entry-level accounting job is an accounting clerk or bookkeeper, which involves tasks like data entry, invoicing, and basic financial record keeping. These roles often require familiarity with accounting software such as QuickBooks or Excel and may offer on-the-job training for those with a basic understanding of accounting principles. They provide practical experience and a foundation for advancing in the accounting field.

What are the most commonly searched types of Accounting jobs in Maine?

The most popular types of Accounting jobs in Maine are:

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Accounting jobs in Maine?

For Entry Level Accounting jobs in Maine, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Accounting jobs in Maine look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Accounting jobs in Maine are:

What cities in Maine are hiring for Entry Level Accounting jobs?

Cities in Maine with the most Entry Level Accounting job openings:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Accounting job openings in Maine as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 8% Part Time, 4% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 7% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,918 per year, or $19.7 per hour.

ACCOUNTS MAINTENANCE CLERK/ACCOUNTING TECHNICIAN

Defense Finance and Accounting Service

Limestone, ME • On-site

$16.25 - $20.75/hr

Other

Re-posted 22 days ago


Defense Finance and Accounting Service rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 31 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

73rd of 151 rated financial services


Job description

Summary
Defense Finance and Accounting Services (DFAS) mission is to lead the DoD in finance and accounting by ensuring the delivery of efficient, exceptional quality pay and financial information.
Telework availability is limited and will only be provided on a rare case-by-case basis during situations where Agency Leadership has determined that telework serves a compelling DoD need.
Learn more about this agency
Duties
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  • Duties will be developmental in nature when the position is filled below the full performance level.
  • Researches current accounts, historical data, source documents, etc., to develop and explain detailed information not otherwise readily available.
  • Researches accounting data and performs balancing and reconciling of accounts. Assists in implementing and maintaining Internal Control Program requirements to protect against waste, fraud, and abuse.
  • Processes all types of accounting transactions and requests for establishment of additional accounting records.
  • Verifies the accuracy, completeness, and validity of a wide variety of accounting functions/transactions including: obligations; accrued expenditures; disbursements; appropriation refunds; reimbursable orders; earnings and collections.
Requirements
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Conditions of employment
  • ***This Job Opportunity Announcement is using an additional online assessment tool to evaluate applicants. Please review the HOW YOU WILL BE EVALUATED, HOW TO APPLY and WHAT TO EXPECT NEXT sections below for instructions.***
  • Suitable for Federal Employment
  • Registered for Selective Service (males born after 12-31-1959)
  • Obtain/MaintainFinancial Management Certification
  • This national security position, which may require access to classified information, requires a favorable suitability review and security clearance as a condition of employment. Failure to maintain security eligibility may result in termination.
  • Must be a U.S Citizen.
  • New employees to the Defense Finance and Accounting Service will be required to successfully pass the E-Verify employment verification check. To learn more about E-Verify, including your rights and responsibilities, visit e-verify.gov.
  • For positions where relocation is paid (see Location block of vacancy announcement), you can learn more about relocation allowances and entitlements.
  • Telework availability will be based upon the mission requirements and supervisory determination.
  • Pay for first time hires to the Federal Government will typically be set at step 1 salary range for their respective grade level.
  • This announcement will be used to fill current and anticipated future vacancies.
  • Onboarding is dependent upon favorable security/suitability determination and availability of work and vacancies. In some cases, individuals may not be employed for six months or more from the time they are approved by security.
Qualifications
This announcement will be used to fill positions with an entry grade of GS-04 or GS-05.
One year of specialized experience equivalent in level of difficulty and responsibility to that of the next lower grade within the federal service, which demonstrates the ability to perform the duties of the position, is required.
Specialized experience is defined as:
GS-04 positions: One (1) year of Generalized Experience of progressively responsible clerical, office, or other work that indicates ability to acquire the particular knowledge and skills needed to perform the duties of the position to be filled.
GS-05 positions: Performing duties that support the processing of financial/accounting transactions using standardized procedures that may include reviewing financial/accounting systems information/documents for accuracy/completeness, inputting financial/accounting information into automated systems, or correcting invalid financial/accounting transactions.
Volunteer Experience: Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religious; spiritual, community, student, social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge, and skills and can provide valuable training and experience that translates to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience.
Education
Substitution of Education for Experience
GS-04 Substitution of Education for Experience:
Two years of successfully completed education above the high school level in any field for which high school graduation, or the equivalent, is a prerequisite may be substituted to meet the general experience required. Equivalent combinations of successfully completed post-high school education and experience may be used to meet total experience requirements.
GS-05 Substitution of Education for Experience: Four years of successfully completed education above the high school level in any field for which high school graduation, or the equivalent, is a prerequisite may be substituted to meet the specialized experience required. Equivalent combinations of successfully completed post-high school education and experience may be used to meet total experience requirements.
Official Transcripts: If the position you are applying for has a positive degree requirement or education forms the basis for qualifications (i.e. you would not qualify without the education obtained), you MUST submit transcripts with your application.
    • Official transcripts are not required at the time of application outside of what is outlined above; however, official transcripts must be verified PRIOR to appointment.
    • An accrediting institution recognized by the U.S. Department of Education must accredit education. Click here to check accreditation.
  • FOREIGN EDUCATION: Education completed in foreign colleges or universities may be used to meet the requirements. You must show proof the education credentials have been deemed to be at least equivalent to that gained in a conventional U.S. education program. It is your responsibility to provide such evidence when applying or prior to appointment as outlined above.
    • Qualifying education from colleges and universities in foreign countries must be evaluated in terms of equivalency to that acquired in U.S. colleges and universities. Applicants educated in whole or in part in foreign countries must submit sufficient evidence, including transcripts, to an accredited private organization for an equivalency evaluation of course work and degree. You must provide a copy of the letter containing the results of the equivalency evaluation upon request. Failure to provide such documentation when requested will result in lost consideration.
For more information regarding evaluation of foreign education for federal employment, please visit the U.S. Department of Education
Additional information
  • Moving expenses WILL NOTbe paid.
  • This position IS NOTcovered by a bargaining unit.
  • This position is NON-EXEMPT from the Fair Labor Standards Act.
  • The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017 makes certain reimbursements/payments taxable. For information on these changes and the Relocation Income Tax Allowance (RITA), for which some appointees are eligible, click here.
  • Accepting this position, you may be required to serve a 1-year probationary period during which we will evaluate your fitness and whether your continued employment advances the public interest.
  • We may use this announcement to fill additional vacancies within 90 days of the closing date.
  • Travel requirement is SELDOM (1-24%).
  • Retired Civil Service Employee: Employment of retired Federal employees receiving an annuity is subject to the requirements of the Department of Defense (DoD) policy guidance. (See DoD Instruction 1400.25, Volume 300,
  • Males born after 12-31-59 must be registered or be exempt from Selective Service (see http://www.sss.gov).
  • Interagency Career Transition Assistance Program (ICTAP) Priority Consideration: If you are a displaced Federal Civil Service employee and attain a rating of at least 80, you may be entitled to receive special priority selection under the ICTAP. For more information on ICTAP, click here ICTAP Guidance. NOTE: If you have never worked for the Federal Government, you are NOT ICTAP eligible.
  • This position requires you to obtain and maintain a Level 1 Certification under the DoD Financial Management (FM) Certification Program as a condition of employment. If selected, you will have to obtain this certification within two (2) years of your entry on duty in the position.
  • Drug Testing is not required
  • The Security Designation will vary and dependent upon position and may require a secret clearance or higher. Employment in this position requires a background investigation which may delay starting date. If you are selected and cannot obtain a favorable security determination within a reasonable period of time due to disclosed/undisclosed background issues, the employment offer may be withdrawn. Individuals selected are required to obtain/maintain a favorable security determination to occupy a sensitive position within the agency as a condition of employment. Failure to maintain eligibility to occupy a sensitive position may result in termination. For more information see the security section of Understanding Vacancy Announcements.
  • Criminal History Inquiries- For some positions, criminal history inquiries may not take place before you receive a conditional job offer. Please see Fair Chance to Compete for Jobs Act of 2019 (dfas.mil) for more information on The Fair Chance to Compete Act, exceptions, and DFAS contact information.
  • All applicants are encouraged to apply electronically. If you are unable to apply online, you may contact 317-212-0454 for assistance.
  • Priority Placement Program (PPP) Military Spouse Preference (MSP) eligible candidates will receive priority consideration at the highest grade level for which they have applied and been determined best qualified up to and including the full performance level.
  • PPP Application Based Preference Eligibles (Military Reserve and National Guard technicians, Military Reserve and National Guard technicians receiving disability retirement, and Retained Grade employees) will receive priority consideration at the full performance level only.

Candidates should be committed to improving the efficiency of the Federal government, passionate about the ideals of our American republic, and committed to upholding the rule of law and the United States Constitution.
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A career with the U.S. government provides employees with a comprehensive benefits package. As a federal employee, you and your family will have access to a range of benefits that are designed to make your federal career very rewarding. Opens in a new windowLearn more about federal benefits.
Review our benefits
Eligibility for benefits depends on the type of position you hold and whether your position is full-time, part-time or intermittent. Contact the hiring agency for more information on the specific benefits offered.

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