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

State of Illinois

GRANT ACCOUNTANT TRAINEE

Springfield, IL · On-site

$4.7K - $6.4K/mo

By joining as an accounting & fiscal administration career trainee, you will master grant accounting standards and learn internal state accounting processes. The ideal candidate wants to learn state ...

State of Illinois

GRANT ACCOUNTANT TRAINEE

Springfield, IL · On-site

$4.7K - $6.4K/mo

By joining as an accounting & fiscal administration career trainee, you will master grant accounting standards and learn internal state accounting processes. The ideal candidate wants to learn state ...

All JobsEntry Level Accounting JobsEntry Level Accounting Jobs in Springfield, IL

Entry Level Accounting information

See Springfield, IL salary details

$11

$20

$28

How much do entry level accounting jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 15, 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 are the 4 fields of accounting?

The four main fields of accounting are financial accounting, managerial accounting, cost accounting, and tax accounting. Entry-level accounting roles often require understanding these areas to prepare financial statements, analyze costs, and ensure compliance with tax laws. Developing skills in accounting software and certifications like CPA can enhance job prospects in these fields.

How do you get an accounting job with no experience?

Entry-level accounting positions often require a relevant degree or coursework in accounting or finance. Gaining skills in accounting software like QuickBooks or Excel, obtaining certifications such as a CPA or CMA, and securing internships or volunteer work can improve chances without prior professional experience.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Accountant, and why are they important?

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.

Will CPA be replaced by AI?

The CPA credential for accountants involves complex judgment, ethical considerations, and understanding of tax laws, which AI currently cannot fully replicate. While AI tools can assist with data analysis and routine tasks, the role of a CPA requires critical thinking and professional judgment that remain essential in accounting work.

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 is entry-level accounting work?

Entry-level accounting work involves basic financial tasks such as data entry, bookkeeping, preparing financial reports, and assisting with audits. It typically requires knowledge of accounting software like QuickBooks or Excel and may involve supporting senior accountants in daily operations.
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:
Entry Level Accounting jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Accounting job openings in Springfield, IL as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, 19% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,886 per year, or $20.1 per hour.
GRANT ACCOUNTANT TRAINEE

GRANT ACCOUNTANT TRAINEE

State of Illinois

Springfield, IL • On-site

$4.7K - $6.4K/mo

Other

Retirement

Posted 6 days ago

State Of Illinois rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 72 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

20th of 50 rated states

Job description

Job Requisition ID: 56673
Opening Date: 06/09/2026
Closing Date: 06/24/2026
Agency: Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity
Class Title: ACCTNG FISCAL ADMIN CAREER TRN (00140) 
Skill Option: UMP Credential 
Bilingual Option: None
Salary: Anticipated Starting Salary (Effective 7/1/26) $4,747 monthly; Full Range $4,747 - $6,446 monthly
Job Type: Salaried
Category: Full Time 
County: Sangamon
Number of Vacancies: 2
Bargaining Unit Code: RC062 Technical Employees, AFSCME
Merit Comp Code:  

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.

***PLEASE UPLOAD A COPY OF YOUR UNOFFICIAL COLLEGE TRANSCRIPTS FOR VERIFICATION OF COURSEWORK***

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 Overview

The Office of Financial Management (OFM) is seeking candidates interested in a career path of accounting and grant administration. Every year OFM manages the release of more than one billion dollars inassistanceto local governments, non-profits, and small businesses to achieve the department's goals. Accountants review and approve all financial components of more than 800 annual grants, helping Illinois meet its economic goals. By joining as an accounting & fiscal administration career trainee, you will master grant accounting standards and learn internal state accounting processes. The ideal candidate wants to learn state government accounting and actively help the department execute grants that drive economic opportunity. We invite interested applicants who are ready to oversee accounts and records of this State agency to apply. 

Essential Functions
  • Under immediate supervision, participates in an agency sponsored training program of six to twelve months for grant processing to obtain knowledge, skill and expertise in the various phases to prepare for the obligation of a grant.
  • Accepts and completes assignments of increasing difficulty to gain experience and develop working skills required for the position.
  • Receives training on the review and evaluation of the grant closeout process for the programs assigned and interacts with the program staff and/or grantee to resolve any issues.
  • Participates in a training program for loan processing to obtain knowledge, skill and expertise in the various phases to prepare for the obligation and payout of the loan.
  • Receives training to obtain knowledge on how to review and process cash requests submitted by the grantee community for the programs assigned.
  • Tracks data for the department's equity investments.
  • Attends and participates in staff meetings, conferences, workshops and other activities which will provide meaningful learning experience.
  • Performs other duties as required or assigned with are reasonable within the scope of the duties enumerated above.
Minimum Qualifications
  • Requires a bachelor's degree in accounting or an allied field.
  • This class is included as an Upward Mobility Program credential title.
Preferred Qualifications
  • Prefers one (1) year of experience utilizing electronic accounting software, SAP or another accounting software system. 
  • Prefers one (1) year of experience working in an office environment. 
  • Prefers intermediate level of expertise in the use of electronic spreadsheet software.
Conditions of Employment
  • Requires completion of a background check and self-disclosure of criminal history.

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

The mission of the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) is to create equitable economic opportunities across the State of Illinois. By attracting and supporting major job creators, investing in communities, strengthening Illinois' world-class workforce, fostering innovation, and ushering in the new clean energy economy, DCEO works to fortify Illinois' reputation as a global economic powerhouse while ensuring Illinois is the best state to live, work and do business. 

Work Hours: Monday-Friday 8:30am - 5:00pm
Headquarter Location: 607 E Adams St, Springfield, Illinois, 62701
Work County: Sangamon
Agency Contact: CEO.HR@illinois.gov (FOR INQUIRIES ONLY - INTERESTED APPLICANTS MUST APPLY ONLINE)

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.

Company size

11 - 50 Employees

Headquarters location

Springfield, IL, US

Year founded

2009

Social media

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