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Entry Level Public Accountant Jobs in Springfield, IL

Entry Level Public Accountant information

See Springfield, IL salary details

$14

$26

$41

How much do entry level public accountant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level public accountant in Springfield, IL is $26.09, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.96 and $29.33 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How to get into public accounting with no experience?

Entry level public accountants can start by gaining relevant education such as a bachelor's degree in accounting or finance, and developing skills in accounting software like QuickBooks or Excel. Internships or volunteer work can provide practical experience, and obtaining certifications like the CPA can improve job prospects even without prior work experience.

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

To thrive as an Entry Level Public Accountant, you need a solid understanding of accounting principles, financial reporting, and a bachelor's degree in accounting or a related field. Familiarity with accounting software such as QuickBooks or SAP, and progress toward or completion of the CPA certification is highly valued. Attention to detail, analytical thinking, and strong communication skills help distinguish top performers in this role. These competencies ensure accurate financial records, regulatory compliance, and effective collaboration with clients and team members.

What does an Entry Level Public Accountant do?

An Entry Level Public Accountant assists with preparing and examining financial records for individuals or organizations. Their responsibilities typically include tasks like bookkeeping, preparing tax returns, auditing financial statements, and ensuring compliance with relevant laws and regulations. They often work under the supervision of senior accountants or managers and gain experience in areas such as tax, audit, or consulting. This role helps them build foundational skills necessary for career growth in accounting.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level public accountants during their first year, and how can they be overcome?

Entry level public accountants often face challenges such as managing tight deadlines during busy seasons, adapting to rapidly changing client needs, and learning complex accounting software. Building strong organizational skills, proactively seeking feedback, and collaborating with more experienced team members can help new accountants navigate these challenges. Many firms offer mentorship programs and training sessions, which are valuable resources for professional growth and building confidence in the role.

Why are so many CPAs quitting?

Many entry-level public accountants leave the profession due to high workload, long hours, and stress, especially during busy seasons like tax time. Additionally, limited advancement opportunities and burnout contribute to turnover, prompting some to seek roles with better work-life balance or different career paths.

Is 27 too old to become an accountant?

Entry level public accountants can start at any age, including 27, as the profession values skills, education, and certifications like the CPA. Age is not a barrier; many professionals begin or transition into accounting later in life and succeed with relevant training and experience.

Can you make $500,000 a year as an accountant?

Entry-level public accountants typically earn between $50,000 and $70,000 annually, with higher salaries possible with experience, specialization, or working in large firms or high-cost areas. Reaching a $500,000 annual salary generally requires many years of experience, advanced certifications like CPA or CMA, and roles in senior management or executive positions.
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Public Accountant jobs in Springfield, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Public Accountant jobs in Springfield, IL are:
What cities near Springfield, IL are hiring for Entry Level Public Accountant jobs? Cities near Springfield, IL with the most Entry Level Public Accountant job openings:

Entry Level Cost Auditor

Ourhrconnect

Springfield, IL

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 18 days ago


Job description


Summary
Ā Responsible for assisting in the execution of financial, compliance, and operational audits including evaluation of internal controls. Audits the activity of various departments and providers for compliance with plans, policies, and procedures prescribed by management. Reviews assigned portions of audit programs, determines compliance with policies and procedures, recommends corrective action plans, and prepares/submits reports on the results of audits.
Description
Ā 

This is a full time position that can be located in Springfield, Illinois, Nashville Tennessee, or Columbia, SC.

What You'll Do:

  • Conducts audits of the financial, management, and administrative procedures of assigned divisions, providers, departments, and various lines of businesses throughout the organization to ensure that procedures are in compliance. Audits include interviewing key personnel, conducting testing, evaluating internal controls, analyzing existing financial and management practices to determine effectiveness, and reviewing relevant documentation to support findings.
  • Develops detailed reports on each audit conducted. Reports include a review of findings and an identification of recommendation to correct any deficiencies and methods for improvement to processes. Conducts testing of corrective actions as identified.
  • Conducts special audit studies for management, such as those required to discover controls for prevention of fraud. Prepares reports of finding and recommendations for management.
  • Assists other auditors in completing their assignments as a means of maximizing audit efficiency and thus reducing lost time and involvement of corporate personnel.

What You'll Need:

Required Education: Bachelor's degree - Accounting , Finance, Business Administration, or other job related field of study.

Required Work Experience:

No previous work experience required.

Required Skills and Abilities: Knowledge of the principles and practices of auditing. Ability to analyze and determine the applicability of financial data. Ability to draw conclusions and make appropriate recommendations for analyzed data. Ability to gather information by examining records and documents and interviewing individuals. Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work professionally with persons at all levels. Ability to communicate clearly and effectively in oral and written form. Ability to handle sensitive matters on a confidential basis.

Required Software and Tools: Microsoft Office.

Preferred Licenses and Certificates: Certified Internal Auditor (CIA) or Certified Public Accountant (CPA) or Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA)

Work Environment: Typical office environment. Travel between office buildings required. Out of town travel may be required.

Our Comprehensive Benefits Package Includes The Following: We offer our employees great benefits and rewards. You will be eligible to participate in the benefits at the first of the month following 28 days of employment:

  • Subsidized health plans, dental and vision coverage
  • 401k retirement savings plan with company match
  • Life Insurance
  • Paid Time Off (PTO)
  • On-site cafeterias and fitness centers in major locations
  • Education Assistance
  • Service Recognition
  • National discounts to movies, theaters, zoos, theme parks and more

What We Can Do for You:

We understand the value of a diverse and inclusive workplace and strive to be an employer where employees across all spectrums have the opportunity to develop their skills, advance their careers and contribute their unique abilities to the growth of our company.

What To Expect Next:

After submitting your application, our recruiting team members will review your resume to ensure you meet the qualifications. This may include a brief telephone interview or email communication with our recruiter to verify resume specifics and salary requirements.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

BlueCross BlueShield of South Carolina and our subsidiary companies maintain a continuing policy of nondiscrimination in employment to promote employment opportunities for persons regardless of age, race, color, national origin, sex, religion, veteran status, disability, weight, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any other legally protected status. Additionally, as a federal contractor, the company maintains affirmative action programs to promote employment opportunities for individuals with disabilitiesand protected veterans. It is our policy to provide equal opportunities in all phases of the employment process and to comply with applicable federal, state and local laws and regulations.

We are committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities, pregnant individuals, individuals with pregnancy-related conditions, and individuals needing accommodations for sincerely held religious beliefs, provided that those accommodations do not impose an undue hardship on the Company.

If you need special assistance or an accommodation while seeking employment, please email mycareer.help@bcbssc.comor call 800-288-2227, ext. 47480 with the nature of your request. We will make a determination regarding your request for reasonable accommodation on a case-by-case basis.

We participate in E-Verify and comply with the Pay Transparency Nondiscrimination Provision. We are an Equal Opportunity Employer. Here's moreinformation.

Some states have required notifications. Here's more information.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

BlueCross BlueShield of South Carolina and our subsidiary companies maintain a continuing policy of nondiscrimination in employment to promote employment opportunities for persons regardless of age, race, color, national origin, sex, religion, veteran status, disability, weight, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any other legally protected status. Additionally, as a federal contractor, the company maintains affirmative action programs to promote employment opportunities for individuals with disabilitiesand protected veterans. It is our policy to provide equal opportunities in all phases of the employment process and to comply with applicable federal, state and local laws and regulations.

We are committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities, pregnant individuals, individuals with pregnancy-related conditions, and individuals needing accommodations for sincerely held religious beliefs, provided that those accommodations do not impose an undue hardship on the Company.

If you need special assistance or an accommodation while seeking employment, please email mycareer.help@bcbssc.comor call 800-288-2227, ext. 47480 with the nature of your request. We will make a determination regarding your request for reasonable accommodation on a case-by-case basis.

We participate in E-Verify and comply with the Pay Transparency Nondiscrimination Provision. We are an Equal Opportunity Employer. Here's moreinformation.

Some states have required notifications. Here's more information.