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Exempt Accountant Jobs in Raleigh, NC (NOW HIRING)

Accounting - 965

Cary, NC

$21.75 - $29.25/hr

... Nonexempt ELIGIBILITY FOR EMPLOYMENT CONTRACT No WORK WEEK SCHEDULE Monday-Friday (occasional evenings and weekends) POSITION PURPOSE: Performs a variety of accounting tasks required to analyze ...

... covering both exempt and non-exempt employees. The Payroll Manager serves as the primary ... This position works closely with HR, Finance, Accounting, Benefits, HRIS, IT, Legal/Compliance ...

... covering both exempt and non-exempt employees. The Payroll Manager serves as the primary ... This position works closely with HR, Finance, Accounting, Benefits, HRIS, IT, Legal/Compliance ...

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Exempt Accountant information

See Raleigh, NC salary details

$33.1K

$66.4K

$105.5K

How much do exempt accountant jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for exempt accountant in Raleigh, NC is $66,418.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $52,000.00 and $76,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by Exempt Accountants when managing compliance with changing tax laws?

Exempt Accountants often encounter challenges staying updated with frequently changing tax regulations and ensuring that their organization's financial practices remain compliant. This can involve continuous professional learning, adapting internal processes quickly, and effectively communicating updates to both clients and colleagues. Collaboration with legal and tax advisory teams is crucial, as is maintaining meticulous documentation to avoid compliance issues during audits. Staying proactive and leveraging accounting software can help manage these challenges efficiently.

What is an Exempt Accountant?

An Exempt Accountant is a professional responsible for managing, analyzing, and reporting financial records for an organization, and the term 'exempt' typically refers to their status under the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA). This means they are salaried employees who are exempt from overtime pay requirements due to the nature of their job duties and level of responsibility. Exempt Accountants generally handle complex accounting tasks, ensure compliance with financial regulations, and may oversee other staff. Their work is crucial for accurate financial reporting and strategic planning within a business.

What jobs pay $10,000 a month without a degree?

Exempt accountants typically require a degree, but high-paying roles without a degree include sales managers, real estate brokers, and certain tech sales positions, which can reach or exceed $10,000 monthly with experience and commissions. Skilled trades like commercial pilots or specialized construction managers may also earn high salaries without formal degrees, often relying on certifications and experience.

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

Exempt accountants typically earn between $60,000 and $120,000 annually, with top executives or specialized senior accountants potentially reaching higher salaries. Earning $500,000 a year is uncommon and usually requires executive-level positions, extensive experience, or ownership in a firm. Advanced certifications like CPA or CMA and strong industry networks can contribute to higher earnings, but such high salaries are rare for standard accounting roles.

Are accountants usually exempt?

Accountants, including exempt accountants, are often classified as exempt under the Fair Labor Standards Act if they perform professional, administrative, or executive duties and meet certain salary thresholds. Exempt status means they are not eligible for overtime pay, and their classification depends on their job responsibilities and salary level. Many accountants in salaried positions are considered exempt, especially if they hold professional certifications like CPA and have managerial or specialized roles.

What is the difference between Exempt Accountant vs Staff Accountant?

AspectExempt AccountantStaff Accountant
CredentialsBachelor's degree in accounting or related field; CPA often preferredBachelor's degree in accounting or related field; CPA optional
Work EnvironmentCorporate finance, accounting departments, or consulting firmsPublic accounting firms, corporate finance teams, or small businesses
Employer & Industry UsageUsed across industries for higher-level accounting roles with managerial responsibilitiesCommon entry-level or mid-level role in accounting firms and companies

The main difference is that an Exempt Accountant typically holds a higher-level, often specialized role with managerial or senior responsibilities, and may require CPA certification. A Staff Accountant is usually an entry- to mid-level position focused on routine accounting tasks. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds, but their responsibilities and work environments differ significantly.

Why are CPAs declining?

The decline in CPAs is often due to increased automation of accounting tasks through software, which reduces the demand for traditional accounting roles. Additionally, some professionals pursue alternative certifications or roles in finance, leading to a shift in the accounting workforce. However, CPAs with specialized skills or in niche areas remain in demand.

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

To thrive as an Exempt Accountant, you need a solid understanding of accounting principles, financial reporting, and regulatory compliance, generally supported by a bachelor's degree in accounting or finance. Familiarity with accounting software such as SAP, Oracle, or QuickBooks and certifications like CPA are commonly required. Analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for interpreting data and collaborating with stakeholders. These skills and qualities ensure accurate financial management, regulatory adherence, and the ability to provide valuable insights for business decision-making.
What are the most commonly searched types of Accountant jobs in Raleigh, NC? The most popular types of Accountant jobs in Raleigh, NC are:
What job categories do people searching Exempt Accountant jobs in Raleigh, NC look for? The top searched job categories for Exempt Accountant jobs in Raleigh, NC are:
What cities near Raleigh, NC are hiring for Exempt Accountant jobs? Cities near Raleigh, NC with the most Exempt Accountant job openings:

Manager of Accounting & Compliance

Sunrock

Zebulon, NC • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 23 days ago

Be an early applicant


Job description

Manager of Accounting & Compliance (Construction Materials / Aggregates)

Department: Accounting & Compliance
Reports To: Director of Accounting & Compliance
FLSA Status: Salaried, Exempt
Location: Raleigh, NC (Onsite)

What We Offer

Competitive salary based on experience
Performance-based bonus eligibility
Medical insurance (PPO and HDHP with employer HSA contribution)
Company-paid dental insurance
Vision insurance
FSA / HSA accounts
Company-paid life insurance
Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
401(k) with employer match
Paid time off and holidays
Opportunities for career growth and development

Position Overview

The Manager of Accounting & Compliance is responsible for leading core accounting operations while driving process optimization, financial reporting accuracy, and operational efficiency across the organization. This role oversees general ledger, payroll, accounts payable, fixed assets, and inventory accounting functions.

This position plays a critical role in ensuring timely and accurate financial reporting, strengthening internal controls, supporting audits, and improving business processes through technology and best practices. The role requires strong leadership and a solid understanding of project-based accounting within construction materials operations.

Key Responsibilities

Accounting Operations and Close Management

Manage monthly, quarterly, and year-end close processes
Prepare and review journal entries and account reconciliations
Analyze general ledger activity to identify trends, risks, and opportunities
Ensure accurate and timely financial statement preparation
Oversee payroll, accounts payable, and general ledger functions
Manage sales and use tax, property tax, and regulatory reporting
Oversee fixed asset accounting including capitalization, depreciation, and disposals
Ensure accurate inventory accounting and valuation processes
Maintain compliance with GAAP and internal policies

Audit and Reporting

Coordinate external audits and prepare required documentation
Ensure audit readiness through strong controls and documentation
Evaluate accounting procedures for effectiveness and compliance

Business Process Improvement and Systems

Evaluate and improve standard operating procedures for scalability and efficiency
Drive automation and process improvements across accounting functions
Enhance reporting capabilities through improved tools and analytics

Leadership and Team Development

Lead, mentor, and develop accounting staff
Foster a culture of accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvement
Supervise team performance and align with company goals
Drive employee engagement through training and development initiatives

Required Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree in Accounting required
8+ years of progressive accounting experience required
CPA strongly preferred
8–10+ years of experience managing general ledger, payroll, AP, fixed assets, and inventory functions
Strong knowledge of GAAP and financial reporting requirements
Experience leading external audits
Experience in aggregates, construction materials, mining, manufacturing, or similar industries preferred
Advanced Excel and financial modeling skills
Experience with ERP systems (Vista preferred), BI tools, and reporting platforms
Demonstrated leadership experience with direct team supervision

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

Strong leadership and team development skills
Excellent analytical and problem-solving abilities
Strong communication and stakeholder management skills
Ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines
High attention to detail and process orientation

Work Environment

Office-based with cross-functional collaboration
Periodic interaction with operational teams and leadership

Equal Opportunity Employer

Sunrock is an Equal Opportunity Employer and makes all employment decisions without regard to race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, religion, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, marital status, citizen status, or any other legally protected status under local, state, or federal law.