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Entry Level Accounting Jobs in Chicago Ridge, IL

YMCA of Metropolitan Chicago

Staff Accountant

Chicago, IL · On-site

$56K - $74K/yr

... an entry-level accounting professional responsible for supporting the day- to-day accounting operations of the organization. This position assists with maintaining the general ledger, preparing ...

Hogsalt Headquarters

Accountant

Chicago, IL

$18 - $23/hr

In addition to AP responsibilities, you will support sales processing, data entry, integrations, and other administrative projects across the Accounting team.v We offer a full suite of benefits ...

Hogsalt

Accountant

Chicago, IL · On-site

$18 - $23/hr

In addition to AP responsibilities, you will support sales processing, data entry, integrations, and other administrative projects across the Accounting team.v We offer a full suite of benefits ...

A Knock At Midnight

Accountant-Consultant

Chicago, IL · On-site

Create accounting policies to comply with all rules and regulations * Process payroll Qualifications * MUST be a Certified Public Accountant * Worked for a not-for-profit organization as an ...

Collabera

Accounting Ops Coordinator

Chicago, IL

$22.50 - $29/hr

Bachelor's Degree in Accounting or Finance highly preferred Entry level position; 0-1 years relevant work experience. Strong MS Excel skills necessary. * Strong written and oral communication skills.

Northern Trust

Analyst, Fund Accounting

Chicago, IL · On-site

$41K - $61K/yr

... service. Entry level analyst position under direct supervision responsible for evaluating ... Bachelor's degree in Business preferred or relevant work experience in Fund Accounting or Mutual ...

The LaSalle Group

Staff Accountant

Chicago, IL · On-site

$25 - $30/hr

For over two decades, LaSalle has helped organizations hire faster and connect top talent with opportunities, from entry-level positions to the C-suite. With units specializing in Accounting and ...

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Entry Level Accounting information

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How much do entry level accounting jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level accounting in Chicago Ridge, IL is $20.73, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.64 and $22.55 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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.

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 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.

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

To get an entry-level accounting job with no experience, focus on obtaining relevant education such as an associate's or bachelor's degree in accounting or finance, and develop basic skills in accounting software like QuickBooks or Excel. Internships, volunteering, or part-time roles can also provide practical experience and improve your resume for entry-level positions.

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.

What are the most commonly searched types of Accounting jobs in Chicago Ridge, IL?

The most popular types of Accounting jobs in Chicago Ridge, IL are:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Accounting jobs in Chicago Ridge, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Accounting jobs in Chicago Ridge, IL are:

What cities near Chicago Ridge, IL are hiring for Entry Level Accounting jobs?

Cities near Chicago Ridge, IL with the most Entry Level Accounting job openings:

Entry Level Accounting jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Accounting job openings in Chicago Ridge, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 7% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,110 per year, or $20.7 per hour.

Staff Accountant

YMCA of Metropolitan Chicago

Chicago, IL • On-site

$56K - $74K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 22 hours ago

Job description

Job Summary: The Staff Accountant is an entry-level accounting professional responsible for supporting the day- to-day accounting operations of the organization. This position assists with maintaining the general ledger, preparing journal entries, reconciling accounts, supporting the month-end close process, and ensuring accurate financial reporting. The Staff Accountant works closely with finance team members and program staff to ensure compliance with nonprofit accounting standards, grant requirements, and organizational policies.
Scopes and Responsibilities:
General Ledger Accounting
  • Prepare and post routine journal entries as it pertains to AR, AP, Special Accruals, Debt, Bond, Deferred Revenue and other general accounting entries is it relates to Camps, Memberships, Programs, Contributions, Petty Cash, Third Party Merchants
  • Maintain the accuracy and integrity of general ledger accounts.
  • Assist with month-end and year-end closing activities.
  • Review financial transactions to ensure proper account coding.
  • Support the preparation of monthly financial reports and schedules.

Account Reconciliations
  • Perform monthly reconciliations of prepaid expenses, accrued liabilities, accrued payables, Bonds, Leases and other balance sheet accounts.
  • Investigate and resolve discrepancies identified during reconciliations.
  • Maintain supporting documentation for all reconciliations.

Accounts Payable and Receivable Support
  • Assist with reviewing and recording accounts payable transactions.
  • Support receivable tracking and collections activities as needed.
  • Ensure transactions are recorded accurately and timely.

Audit and Compliance
  • Prepare schedules and supporting documentation for annual audits.
  • Assist in gathering information requested by auditors and funders.
  • Ensure compliance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP) and organizational policies.

Other Responsibilities
  • Support special projects and process improvement initiatives.
  • Assist with maintaining accounting records and electronic filing systems.
  • Provide excellent customer service to internal departments and external stakeholders.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.

Education
  • Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field required.

Experience
  • 0-2 years of accounting experience.
  • Internship experience in accounting preferred.
  • Nonprofit accounting experience is a plus but not required.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
  • Basic understanding of accounting principles and financial reporting.
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Excel, including formulas and data analysis.
  • Experience with accounting software preferred.
  • Strong attention to detail and accuracy.
  • Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines.
  • Strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
  • Effective written and verbal communication skills.
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Exposure to nonprofit, grant-funded, or fund accounting environments.
  • Knowledge of GAAP and nonprofit financial reporting requirements.
  • Experience working with federal, state, or private grant funding is a plus.

Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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