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Entry Level Bookkeeping Jobs in Santa Rosa, CA (NOW HIRING)

Entry Level Bookkeeping information

See Santa Rosa, CA salary details

$14

$26

$38

How much do entry level bookkeeping jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level bookkeeping in Santa Rosa, CA is $26.58, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.54 and $30.24 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by entry-level bookkeepers, and how can they be addressed?

Entry-level bookkeepers often face challenges such as managing large volumes of transactions, learning various accounting software platforms, and ensuring accuracy under tight deadlines. To address these challenges, it’s helpful to develop strong organizational skills, seek support from experienced colleagues, and take advantage of training resources provided by the company. Additionally, regularly reviewing work and staying updated with best practices in bookkeeping can help build confidence and accuracy over time.

What are entry level bookkeeping jobs?

Entry level bookkeeping jobs are positions designed for individuals who are new to the field of bookkeeping or have minimal experience. These roles typically involve recording financial transactions, reconciling accounts, maintaining financial records, and assisting with basic accounting tasks under supervision. Entry level bookkeepers often use accounting software to input data and help ensure that an organization’s financial information is accurate and up to date. These jobs provide valuable experience and can lead to more advanced accounting positions over time.

How do I become a bookkeeper with no experience?

Entry-level bookkeeping positions typically require basic math skills and familiarity with accounting software such as QuickBooks. To gain experience, individuals can complete online courses, obtain relevant certifications like the Certified Bookkeeper credential, and seek internships or entry-level roles to build practical skills.

How hard is it to get an entry-level bookkeeping job?

Securing an entry-level bookkeeping position typically requires basic accounting knowledge, familiarity with accounting software like QuickBooks, and a high school diploma or equivalent. While competition can vary, having relevant skills and certifications can improve chances of employment, which is often available in small businesses, retail, or administrative environments.

What is the difference between Entry Level Bookkeeping vs Accounting Clerk?

AspectEntry Level BookkeepingAccounting Clerk
CredentialsHigh school diploma; some certifications optionalHigh school diploma; some may pursue accounting certifications
Work EnvironmentOffice setting, handling financial recordsOffice environment, supporting accounting functions
Job ResponsibilitiesData entry, invoicing, basic ledger tasksData entry, processing invoices, assisting with financial reports

Entry Level Bookkeeping and Accounting Clerks often share similar roles in office settings, focusing on data entry and basic financial tasks. While bookkeeping emphasizes maintaining accurate financial records, accounting clerks may handle additional administrative accounting duties. Both roles typically require similar educational backgrounds and are used interchangeably in many organizations, making them closely related entry-level positions in finance and accounting departments.

Is a bookkeeper a good entry level job?

A bookkeeper is often considered a suitable entry-level job for individuals interested in finance and accounting, as it typically requires basic math skills and familiarity with accounting software. It provides practical experience in financial record-keeping and can serve as a stepping stone to more advanced accounting roles. Certification or training in bookkeeping can enhance job prospects and advancement opportunities.

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

To thrive as an Entry Level Bookkeeper, you need a solid understanding of basic accounting principles, attention to detail, and usually a high school diploma or associate degree in accounting or business. Familiarity with accounting software like QuickBooks or Xero and proficiency in Microsoft Excel are typically required. Strong organizational skills, reliability, and effective communication help you manage financial records accurately and collaborate with team members. These skills and qualities are crucial for maintaining accurate financial data and supporting smooth business operations.

How to get your first job as a bookkeeper?

To get your first entry-level bookkeeping job, develop basic skills in accounting software like QuickBooks or Excel, obtain relevant certifications such as a bookkeeping or accounting certificate, and gain practical experience through internships or volunteer work. Building a strong understanding of financial records and attention to detail can improve your chances of securing an entry-level position.
What are the most commonly searched types of Bookkeeping jobs in Santa Rosa, CA? The most popular types of Bookkeeping jobs in Santa Rosa, CA are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Bookkeeping jobs in Santa Rosa, CA? For Entry Level Bookkeeping jobs in Santa Rosa, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Bookkeeping jobs in Santa Rosa, CA look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Bookkeeping jobs in Santa Rosa, CA are:
What cities near Santa Rosa, CA are hiring for Entry Level Bookkeeping jobs? Cities near Santa Rosa, CA with the most Entry Level Bookkeeping job openings:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Bookkeeping job openings in Santa Rosa, CA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $55,293 per year, or $26.6 per hour.
Accounting Assistant I/II - Limited Term

Accounting Assistant I/II - Limited Term

City of Healdsburg

Healdsburg, CA

$4.9K - $6.6K/mo

Other

Posted 5 days ago


Job description

Description The City of Healdsburg's Finance Department is currently recruiting to fill one full-time, limited term Accounting Assistant I/II position. This limited term position has a 1 year assignment duration. This front-counter position at City Hall supports the Utility Billing division and plays a key role in providing responsive customer service to the community.

Primary responsibilities include processing payments, assisting customers by phone, email, and in person, filing, data entry, and conducting account research as needed. Placement of the individual at a particular level will be based on a combination of factors including education, experience, and certifications. Ideal candidates will have experience with the Office 365 suite, standard office equipment and phone systems, cash handling, and customer service.

Bilingual skills in English and Spanish are highly desirable Applications will be reviewed weekly. Interviews may be scheduled at any time until the position has been filled. This recruitment may be closed at any time, without notice.

Prompt application is encouraged. DEFINITION To perform a variety of financial and accounting support duties for assigned accounting functions; to process payments for City services; to perform general office duties; and to provide clerical support to an assigned supervisor. DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS Accounting Assistant I - This is the entry level class in the clerical Accounting Assistant series.

Positions in this class typically have little or no directly related work experience and work under immediate supervision while learning job tasks. The Accountant Assistant I class is distinguished from the II level by the performance of less than the full range of duties assigned to the II level. Incumbents work under immediate supervision while learning job tasks, progressing to general supervision as procedures and processes of assigned area of responsibility are learned.

Accounting Assistant II - This is the journey level class in the clerical Accounting Assistant series and is distinguished from the I level by the assignment of the full range of duties. Employees at this level receive only occasional instruction or assistance as new, unusual or unique situations arise and are fully aware of the operating procedures and policies within the work unit. Positions in this class are flexibly staffed and are normally filled by advancement from the I level.

This class is distinguished from the Senior Accounting Assistant in that the latter performs the more difficult accounting and specialized financial duties and provides technical and functional supervision over assigned staff. SUPERVISION RECEIVED AND EXERCISED Accounting Assistant I Receives general supervision from assigned supervisor; and may receive technical and functional supervision from more experienced staff. Accounting Assistant II Receives general supervision from assigned supervisor; and may receive technical and functional supervision from more experienced staff Examples of Duties Duties may include, but are not limited to, the following: Perform a variety of financial and accounting support duties for assigned functions.

Provide customer service in person at counter as assigned, via email, mail and on the phone; receive utility and other payments, issue receipts, balances cash receipts at the end of the day; make computer entries and enter data including utility payments, meter readings, charges; process collection notices including reminder notices, delinquency notices, and turn-off notices; process business licenses and related requests, as assigned. Post cash and credits to a variety of financial records; balance payment records; generate and reconcile various reports; maintain subsidiary ledgers, auditing and reconciling reports and information posting data as required. Review invoices and related documents; reconcile differences; verify authorizations; distribute invoices to other departments for coding and approval; prepare accounts payable for payment; research and assemble information from a variety of sources for completion of forms or the preparation of reports.

Process checks for payment; create POs and contracts that have been approved; process and mail out 1099's. Perform general office support duties including filing, typing and other clerical duties as assigned. Build and maintain positive working relationships with co-workers, other City employees and the public using principles of good customer service.

Foster an environment that embraces diversity, integrity, trust, and respect. Be an integral team player, which involves flexibility, cooperation, and communication. Perform related duties as assigned.

Typical Qualifications MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS Accounting Assistant I Knowledge of: Methods of basic recordkeeping Principles of basic accounting bookkeeping. Basic office procedures and cash handling. Principles of providing customer service in person, on the phone or via email.

Ability to: Maintain and organize accurate accounting, billing and related records; review reports; and provide customer service. Intermittently, review and evaluate documents related to department operations; observe, identify and problem solve office operations and procedures; understand, interpret and explain department policies and procedures; explain operations and problem solve issues for the public and with staff. On a continuous basis, sit at desk for long periods of time or stand at public counter; intermittently twist to reach equipment surrounding desk; perform simple grasping and fine manipulation; use telephone; write or use a keyboard to communicate through written means; and lift or carry weight of 10 pounds or less.

Review and balance payment records. Use sound judgment in recognizing scope of authority. Operate and use modern office equipment including computers and applicable software.

Maintain regular attendance and adhere to prescribed work schedule to conduct job responsibilities. Utilize appropriate safety procedures and practices for assigned duties. Establish and maintain effective working relationships with those contacted in the course of work.

Work with various cultural and ethnic groups in a tactful and effective manner. Communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing. Experience and Training Any combination of experience and training that would provide the required knowledge and abilities is qualifying.

A typical way to obtain the required knowledge and abilities would be: Experience: Some responsible customer service, accounting and office support experience is desirable. Training: Equivalent to the completion of the twelfth grade License and Certificate Possession of a valid California Class C Driver License may be required at the time of appointment. Failure to obtain or maintain such required license(s) may be cause for disciplinary action.

Individuals who do not meet this requirement due to a physical disability will be considered for accommodation on a case-by-case basis. Accounting Assistant II In addition to the qualifications for the Accounting Assistant I: Knowledge of: Basic government accounting principles, financial record keeping processes. Billing processes used for utility and related municipal services provided to residential and commercial customers.

Relevant local, State, and Federal laws, rules and regulations related to area of assignment. Ability to: Maintain and organize detailed and accurate accounting, billing and related records; issue notices and bills; create and review detailed reports; and provide customer service. Intermittently, review and evaluate documents related to department operations; observe, identify and problem solve office operations and procedures; understand, interpret and explain department policies and procedures; explain operations and problem solve issues for the public and with staff.

On a continuous basis, sit at desk for long periods of time or stand at public counter; intermittently twist to reach equipment surrounding desk; perform simple grasping and fine manipulation; use telephone; write or use a keyboard to communicate through written means; and lift or carry weight of 10 pounds or less. Balance payment records; conduct research and reconcile discrepancies. Use sound judgment in recognizing scope of authority.

Operate and use modern office equipment including computers and applicable software. Maintain regular attendance and adhere to prescribed work schedule to conduct job responsibilities. Utilize appropriate safety procedures and practices for assigned duties.

Establish and maintain effective working relationships with those contacted in the course of work. Work with various cultural and ethnic groups in a tactful and effective manner. Communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing.

Experience and Training Any combination of experience and training that would provide the required knowledge and abilities is qualifying. A typical way to obtain the required knowledge and abilities would be: Experience: Two years of responsible experience similar to an Accounting Assistant I with the City of Healdsburg. Training: Equivalent to the completion of the twelfth grade.

License and Certificate Possession of a valid California Class C Driver License may be required at the time of appointment. Failure to obtain or maintain such required license(s) may be cause for disciplinary action. Individuals who do not meet this requirement due to a physical disability will be considered for accommodation on a case-by-case basis.

Supplemental Information HOW TO APPLY: Applicants must submit a clear, concise, completed online City Application along with any required supplemental application materials with the Human Resources Department by the filing deadline. If you do not submit your online application by the filing deadline, you will not be considered for this position. Please note, applications may be rejected if incomplete.

All applicants will be reviewed and only those candidates determined to be most qualified on the basis of experience, training and education, as submitted, will be invited to participate further in the selection process. Resumes, CVs and cover letters may not be reviewed as part of the application screening process, unless the application specifically requests supporting materials. HELPFUL TIPS WHEN APPLYING: Your application information and your responses to the supplemental questions are evaluated and taken into consideration throughout the entire selection process.

List all employers and positions held within the last ten (10) years in the work history section of your application. Be as thorough as possible when responding to the supplemental questions. You may include history beyond ten (10) years if related to the position for which you are applying.

If you held multiple positions with one (1) employer, list out each position separately. Failure to follow these instructions may impact your competitiveness in this process or may result in disqualification. BACKGROUND SCREENING: Candidates who have successfully completed all prior phases of the selection process will be subject to fingerprinting and a background investigation prior to employment.

Failure to comply with the background will result in the candidate not being considered further for that vacancy. Additional requirements, such as successful completion of a physical exam, drug screen, etc., may apply, depending on the duties and responsibilities of the position. If you receive a conditional job offer for the position, the requirements upon which the offer are contingent will be outlined in the conditional job letter

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER: The City of Healdsburg values diversity and is dedicated to creating an inclusive workplace environment that is representative of the community. The City is proud to be an equal opportunity employer and strives to build balanced teams without regard to race, color, ethnicity, religion, national origin, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, ancestry, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any other status protected under federal, state and/or local law. We aim to create a workplace that celebrates and embraces and diversity of our employees where all aspects of employment are based on merit, competence, performance, and business need.

The City does not discriminate on the basis of disability in employment. Requests for reasonable accommodations needed to participate in the recruitment process may be made by contacting Human Resources within five (5) business days of being noticed that an event requiring accommodation is occurring. You may also contact the Human Resources Department at (707) 431-3376.