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Entry Level Accounting Jobs in Springfield, IL (NOW HIRING)

Entry Level Accounting information

See Springfield, IL salary details

$11

$20

$28

How much do entry level accounting jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level accounting in Springfield, IL is $20.14, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.16 and $21.92 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 Springfield, IL?

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

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Accounting jobs in Springfield, IL?

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

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

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

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

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

Infographic showing various Entry Level Accounting job openings in Springfield, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 6% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,886 per year, or $20.1 per hour.

ACCOUNT TECHNICIAN I (UMP)

State of Illinois

Springfield, IL • On-site

$4.4K - $5.8K/mo

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 17 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Performs technical accounting work in processing vouchers and maintaining state funds.

  • Uses Microsoft Excel spreadsheets and other systems to track the status of outstanding and processed invoices.

  • Supports the Manager in the preparation of reconciliations.


State Of Illinois rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 75 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

11th of 50 rated states


Job description

Job Requisition ID: 57499
Opening Date:
08/20/2026
Closing Date:
09/03/2026
Agency:
Department of Central Management Services
Class Title: 
ACCOUNT TECHNICIAN I - 00115 
Skill Option: 
UMP Certificate 
Bilingual Option: 
None
Salary:
Anticipated Starting Salary $4,407 monthly; Full Range $4,407 - $5,879 monthly
Job Type:
Salaried
Category: 
Full Time 
County:
Sangamon
Number of Vacancies:
2
Bargaining Unit Code: 
RC014 Clerical Employees, AFSCME
Merit Comp Code: 
 

*****A RESUME IS RECOMMENDED FOR THIS POSITION.*****

This position is a union position; therefore, provisions of the relevant collective bargaining agreement/labor contract apply to the filling of this position.

All applicants who want to be considered for this position MUST apply electronically through the illinois.jobs2web.com website. State of Illinois employees should click the link near the top left to apply through the SuccessFactors employee career portal.

Applications submitted via email or any paper manner (mail, fax, hand delivery) will not be considered.

POSTING ID #57499

Why Work for Illinois?

Working with the State of Illinois is a testament to the values of compassion, equity, and dedication that define our state. Whether you're helping to improve schools, protect our natural resources, or support families in need, you're part of something bigger-something that touches the lives of every person who calls Illinois home.

No matter what state career you're looking for, we offer jobs that fit your life and your schedule-flexible jobs that provide the gold standard of benefits. Our employees can take advantage of various avenues to advance their careers and realize their dreams. Our top-tier benefits and great retirement packages can help you build a rewarding career and lasting future with the State of Illinois.

Position Summary

Have accounting experience? Strong organization and communication skills? The Illinois Department of Central Management Services is seeking to bring aboard an Account Technician to assist with accounts, payment verification of invoices, processing payments, and billing tracking recurring items with the Bureau of Property Management. This position will also work closely with vendors and contractors regarding account items. All are encouraged to apply!

Position Essential Functions
  • Under general supervision of the Contracts/Obligations Manager, performs technical accounting work in processing vouchers and maintaining state funds.
  • Uses Microsoft Excel spreadsheets and other systems to track the status of outstanding and processed invoices.
  • Supports the Manager in the preparation of reconciliations.
  • Processes, reconciles, and maintains various financial statements and reports for the purpose of budgeting and expenditure reviews.
  • Provides support to clerical staff as requested by the Manager.
  • Assists Manager in the training of temporary, contractual, and seasonal staff performing basic, entry-level accounting duties.
  • Performs other duties as required or assigned which are reasonably within the scope of the duties enumerated above.
Minimum Qualifications
  • Requires knowledge, skill, and mental development equivalent to completion of two (2) years of college and completion of an approved training course or three (3) years of related clerical bookkeeping experience.
  • Qualifying state employees in the employee Upward Mobility Program may complete combinations of specific proficiency tests and training programs leading to a certificate of proficiency in lieu of the stated requirements for this classification.
Preferred Qualifications
  • Prefers one (1) year of professional experience with accounting systems and financial software, including voucher processing, obligation tracking, and applying correct account or cost classifications.
  • Prefers one (1) year of professional experience reviewing and processing invoices, including verifying accuracy, appropriate coding, and proper cost allocation across multiple accounts or cost centers.
  • Prefers working knowledge of general accounting principles, including reconciliation of invoices, expenditure tracking, and reviewing supporting documentation for accuracy.
  • Prefers intermediate proficiency with Microsoft Excel or similar, including creating and maintaining tracking logs, journals, and financial reports used for budgeting or expenditure monitoring.
Conditions of Employment
  • Requires completion of a background check and self-disclosure of criminal history.
  • Overtime is a condition of employment, and you may be requested or required/mandated to work overtime including scheduled, unscheduled, or last-minute overtime. This may require the ability to work evenings and weekends.
  • Requires ability to travel in the performance of duties, with overnight stays as appropriate. Requires a valid driver's license.
  • Requires the ability to use agency technology/equipment (i.e., mobile phone, laptop, etc.) properly in accordance with information security awareness policies and confidentiality guidelines.
  • Requires ability to attend seminars, conferences, and trainings to stay current on methods, tools, ideologies, or other industry related topics relevant to the job duties.

The conditions of employment listed here are incorporated and related to any of the job duties as listed in the job description.

About the Agency

Central Management Services (CMS) is the State of Illinois' central operational support agency, the team that keeps government running smoothly behind the scenes. We provide the essential services that enable more than 80 agencies, boards, and commissions to serve the people of Illinois effectively. As the backbone of state operations, CMS delivers highquality, reliable, and forwardthinking services that help government programs work efficiently and meet the needs of residents statewide.

Our vision is to be the trusted partner dedicated to the success of the State of Illinois through service, optimization, and inclusion. Our mission is to be the accessible agency that delivers essential, effective, and efficient services to State agencies and the people of Illinois. Our core values are: Trusted, Strategic, Effective, Innovative, Responsive, and Inclusive. Through strategic leadership CMS plays a vital role in strengthening the effectiveness of Illinois State government.

CMS provides a broad portfolio of statewide services through specialized bureaus such as: Administrative Hearings African Descent-Citizens Reparations Commission Statewide Benefits Communication and Information Diversity and Inclusion Fleet Administration Labor Relations Operational Excellence Statewide Personnel Property Management Strategic Sourcing Surplus Equipment Control.

CMS also operates internal service bureaus that support our agency's own effectiveness and efficiency, including: Internal Audit Finance and Management Government Affairs Human Resources Legal Services Strategic Transformation.

Professionals who join CMS become part of a missiondriven organization committed to continuous improvement and public service excellence. CMS offers the opportunity to contribute to impactful statewide initiatives, collaborate with skilled and talented colleagues, shape strategic improvements across Illinois government, and support the operational foundation that allows state agencies to better serve the residents of Illinois. CMS is a place for people who want their work to matter; where innovation, service, and inclusion are at the heart of everything we do.

State of Illinois Benefits

As a State of Illinois employee, you receive a comprehensive benefits package including:
Competitive Group Insurance benefits including health, life, dental and vision plans.
Flexible work schedules (when available and dependent upon position).
10-25 days of paid vacation time annually (10 days for first year of state employment).
12 days of paid sick time annually which carryover year to year.
3 paid personal business days per year.
13-14 paid holidays per year dependent on election years.
12 weeks of paid parental leave.
Pension plan through the State Employees Retirement System.
Deferred Compensation Program - voluntary supplemental retirement plan.
Optional pre-tax programs - Medical Care Assistance Plan (MCAP) & Dependent Care Assistant Plan (DCAP).
Tuition Reimbursement Program and Federal Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program eligibility.

For more information regarding State of Illinois Benefits follow this link: https://www2.illinois.gov/cms/benefits/Pages/default.aspx

Work Hours:  Monday - Friday 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.  

Headquarter Location: 313 S 6th St, Springfield, Illinois, 62701  

Work County: Sangamon
Agency Contact: Marta Crews

Email: marta.crews2@illinois.gov

Phone #: 217-836-0324

Posting Group:  Fiscal, Finance & Procurement  

This title is within the Upward Mobility Program (UMP). General Program information can be found by clicking on the Upward Mobility Program link or for specific title information at UMP Titles.  To utilize upward mobility contractual rights for this position, employees must apply internally and must upload a copy of the UMP grade notice to their application documents prior to submission. UMP grades can be uploaded to the Additional Documents OR Grade Documentation section of the application.

This position DOES NOT contain "Specialized Skills" (as that term is used in CBAs).

APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS

Use the "Apply" button at the top right or bottom right of this posting to begin the application process.

If you are not already signed in, you will be prompted to do so. 

State employees should sign in to the career portal for State of Illinois employees - a link is available at the top left of the Illinois.jobs2web.com homepage in the blue ribbon. 

Non-State employees should log in on the using the "View Profile" link in the top right of the Illinois.jobs2web.com homepage in the blue ribbon.  If you have never before signed in, you will be prompted to create an account.

If you have questions about how to apply, please see the following resources:

State employees: Log in to the career portal for State employees and review the Internal Candidate Application Job Aid

Non-State employees: on Illinois.jobs2web.com - click "Application Procedures" in the footer of every page of the website.

The main form of communication will be through email. Please check your "junk mail", "spam", or "other" folder for communication(s) regarding any submitted application(s). You may receive emails from the following addresses:

  • donotreply@SIL-P1.ns2cloud.com
  • systems@SIL-P1.ns2cloud.com

What State Of Illinois employees say

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State of Illinois logo

About State of Illinois

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

The State of Illinois is not a traditional company, but rather a governmental entity encompassing diverse agencies and departments that serve the constituents of Illinois. Based in Illinois, United States, this governmental body communicates with its citizens through the official website illinois.gov. The website is a one-stop resource for Illinois residents to access information about the state's services, including education, healthcare, transportation, and public safety, among others.

Industry

Public administration

Company size

11 - 50 Employees

Headquarters location

Springfield, IL, US

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