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Entry Level Private Accounting Jobs in California

BCforward

Accountant

Mountain View, CA · On-site

... private sectors. BCforward's team of dedicated staffing professionals has placed thousands of ... Define and document processes based on minimal instructions using knowledge of Accounting and ...

Prosum Inc.

Private Client Legal Assistant

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$100K - $110K/yr

Track invoices and coordinate with accounting * Support documentation related to trusts and client ... Early-to-mid career professional (not entry-level) * Polished, professional, and client-focused

Pwc

Tax Senior Associate - Private Companies

San Francisco, CA

$77K - $214K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... accounting and auditing skills to validate compliance with professional and technical standards ... PwC does not intend to hire experienced or entry level job seekers who will need, now or in the ...

RSM

Tax Senior Associate - Real Estate

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$87K - $108K/yr

... private companies, homebuilders, real estate opportunity funds, hotel companies, private equity ... Masters of Accounting * CPA, JD, LLM, or EA * Experience with a national or large regional ...

RSM

Tax Senior Associate - Real Estate

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$87K - $108K/yr

... private companies, homebuilders, real estate opportunity funds, hotel companies, private equity ... Masters of Accounting * CPA, JD, LLM, or EA * Experience with a national or large regional ...

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All JobsPrivate Accounting JobsEntry Level Private Accounting JobsEntry Level Private Accounting Jobs in California

Entry Level Private Accounting information

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How much do entry level private accounting jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level private accounting in California is $20.05, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.07 and $21.83 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is entry level private accounting?

Entry level private accounting refers to accounting positions within individual companies, rather than public accounting firms, designed for recent graduates or those with minimal experience. These roles typically involve tasks such as bookkeeping, preparing financial statements, managing accounts payable and receivable, and assisting with budgeting. Entry level private accountants play a crucial role in helping organizations manage their financial records and ensure compliance with internal policies and regulations. As they gain experience, they may advance to more senior positions in accounting or finance within the organization.

What types of tasks can I expect to handle daily as an entry level private accountant?

As an entry-level private accountant, your daily responsibilities will often include recording financial transactions, reconciling bank statements, assisting with accounts payable and receivable, and supporting month-end and year-end closing processes. You'll work closely with senior accountants and finance managers to ensure accurate financial reporting, and may also help prepare budgets or analyze variances. Collaboration with other departments, such as operations or HR, is common to gather necessary documentation and support business decisions.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level private accountant, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Private Accountant, you need a solid understanding of accounting principles, financial reporting, and a relevant degree such as a bachelor's in accounting or finance. Familiarity with accounting software like QuickBooks, Microsoft Excel, and ERP systems, as well as pursuing or holding a certification like CPA, is highly beneficial. Attention to detail, analytical thinking, and strong organizational skills help you excel in this role. These competencies are vital for ensuring accurate financial records, compliance, and effective support of business operations.

What is the difference between Entry Level Private Accounting vs Entry Level Public Accounting?

AspectEntry Level Private AccountingEntry Level Public Accounting
CertificationsTypically CPA or equivalent preferredOften CPA required or encouraged
Work EnvironmentIn-house, within a specific company or organizationPublic accounting firms serving multiple clients
Employer & Industry UsagePrivate companies across various industriesAccounting firms, audit, and consulting services
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Entry Level Private Accounting involves working within a single company's finance team, focusing on internal financial management. In contrast, Entry Level Public Accounting typically involves working for an accounting firm, providing services to multiple clients. Both roles often require CPA certification and share similar work environments, but they differ in scope, client interaction, and career paths.

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

To secure an entry-level private accounting position with no experience, focus on gaining relevant skills through coursework or certifications like the CPA or CMA, and highlight any internships, volunteer work, or related coursework on your resume. Networking with professionals and applying to internships or trainee programs can also improve your chances, as many employers value practical exposure and a willingness to learn. Familiarity with accounting software such as QuickBooks or Excel is beneficial for entry-level roles.

How to get into entry level private accounting?

To enter entry-level private accounting, candidates typically need a bachelor's degree in accounting, finance, or a related field. Gaining proficiency in accounting software like QuickBooks or Excel, and obtaining relevant certifications such as a CPA or CMA, can improve job prospects. Internships or related work experience also help demonstrate practical skills to employers.

What cities in California are hiring for Entry Level Private Accounting jobs?

Cities in California with the most Entry Level Private Accounting job openings:

Entry Level Private Accounting jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Private Accounting job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,709 per year, or $20.1 per hour.

Accountant or Account Technician

City of Sierra Madre

Sierra Madre, CA

$57K - $89K/yr

Full-time, Part-time

Posted 22 days ago

Job description

Description The City of Sierra Madre is seeking an Account Technician or Accountant within our Finance Department to primarily prepare the City's Payroll, personnel budget and labor costing. At the management's discretion, the position may be cross-trained and asked to perform other budgeting, general accounting, grant accounting, AR/billing, cashiering, purchasing and/or A/P duties. Placement as Account Technician or Accountant is dependent on the candidate's education and experience.

Account Technician: $57,491.20 - $69,888.00 Accountant: $73,403.20 - $89,211.20 Examples of Duties Essential Functions: Prepare and process Payroll for the City's full-time and part-time staff, including safety personnel; Prepare CalPERS reports and submit CalPERS payments; Prepare Payroll quarterly reports, i.e., 941 and DE9 reports; Prepare annual compensated absences calculation, compensation report and W2 and W3 reporting; Prepare labor related costing for labor negotiations, projection and budget analyses; Prepare personnel budget; Participate in Budgeting, Year-End Closing, Reporting and Audits; Get cross-trained in AR/Billing, Cashiering, Purchasing, A/P, and act as a backup for the Billing and A/P desks; Assist in various Budgeting, Grant Accounting, and General Accounting & Reporting tasks; Other departmental duties assigned by the director, manager or Senior Accountant Typical Qualifications Experience Required: Minimum 2-3 years public or private accounting experience; Prior governmental accounting experience is preferred; Prior governmental Payroll experience and knowledge in FLSA calculation is strongly desired;

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