External Auditor
$100K - $120K/yr
Big 4 External Audit → Advisory Consulting (Fortune 1000 Projects) Transition From External Audit ... The role involves working on complex accounting, reporting, and finance transformation initiatives ...
External Auditor
$100K - $120K/yr
Big 4 External Audit → Advisory Consulting (Fortune 1000 Projects) Transition From External Audit ... The role involves working on complex accounting, reporting, and finance transformation initiatives ...
External Auditor
$100K - $120K/yr
Big 4 External Audit → Advisory Consulting (Fortune 1000 Projects) Transition From External Audit ... The role involves working on complex accounting, reporting, and finance transformation initiatives ...
External Auditor
$100K - $120K/yr
Big 4 External Audit → Advisory Consulting (Fortune 1000 Projects) Transition From External Audit ... The role involves working on complex accounting, reporting, and finance transformation initiatives ...
External Reporting Accountant
New Orleans, LA · On-site +1
$82K - $107K/yr
The Accountant (III, Lead, or Senior Lead) will perform SEC financial reporting, including Form 10-K and 10-Q, and lead or support other external financial reporting, including FERC financial ...
External Reporting Accountant
New Orleans, LA · On-site +1
$82K - $107K/yr
The Accountant (III, Lead, or Senior Lead) will perform SEC financial reporting, including Form 10-K and 10-Q, and lead or support other external financial reporting, including FERC financial ...
External Reporting Accountant
New Orleans, LA · On-site
$82K - $107K/yr
The Accountant (III, Lead, or Senior Lead) will perform SEC financial reporting, including Form 10-K and 10-Q, and lead or support other external financial reporting, including FERC financial ...
External Reporting Accountant
New Orleans, LA · On-site
$82K - $107K/yr
The Accountant (III, Lead, or Senior Lead) will perform SEC financial reporting, including Form 10-K and 10-Q, and lead or support other external financial reporting, including FERC financial ...
Accountant
Kent, WA · On-site
$28 - $35/hr
You'll work closely with leadership, operations, and our external accounting partners to help ensure the financial health and success of the company. ResponsibilitiesPayroll Administration * Support ...
Accountant
Kent, WA · On-site
$28 - $35/hr
You'll work closely with leadership, operations, and our external accounting partners to help ensure the financial health and success of the company. ResponsibilitiesPayroll Administration * Support ...
External Auditor
Miami, FL · On-site
$100K - $120K/yr
Big 4 External Audit → Advisory Consulting (Fortune 1000 Projects) Transition From External Audit ... The role involves working on complex accounting, reporting, and finance transformation initiatives ...
External Auditor
Miami, FL · On-site
$100K - $120K/yr
Big 4 External Audit → Advisory Consulting (Fortune 1000 Projects) Transition From External Audit ... The role involves working on complex accounting, reporting, and finance transformation initiatives ...
Accountant
Kent, WA · On-site
$28 - $35/hr
You'll work closely with leadership, operations, and our external accounting partners to help ensure the financial health and success of the company. Responsibilities Payroll Administration * Support ...
Accountant
Kent, WA · On-site
$28 - $35/hr
You'll work closely with leadership, operations, and our external accounting partners to help ensure the financial health and success of the company. Responsibilities Payroll Administration * Support ...
Accountant
$28 - $35/hr
You'll work closely with leadership, operations, and our external accounting partners to help ensure the financial health and success of the company. ResponsibilitiesPayroll Administration * Support ...
Accountant
$28 - $35/hr
You'll work closely with leadership, operations, and our external accounting partners to help ensure the financial health and success of the company. ResponsibilitiesPayroll Administration * Support ...
Accountant II
Indianapolis, IN · On-site
Prepares and reviews journal entries, internal and external accounting financial statements, schedules, and reports of moderate complexity in one or more specialized areas. Use computer systems to ...
New
Accountant II
Indianapolis, IN · On-site
Prepares and reviews journal entries, internal and external accounting financial statements, schedules, and reports of moderate complexity in one or more specialized areas. Use computer systems to ...
New
Senior Accountant -Bilingual Mandarin
Irvine, CA · On-site
$70K - $85K/yr
This role supports day-to-day accounting operations and works closely with internal teams and external accountants as needed. Key Responsibilities 1.Accounting Operations * Manage and oversee daily ...
Quick apply
Senior Accountant -Bilingual Mandarin
Irvine, CA · On-site
$70K - $85K/yr
This role supports day-to-day accounting operations and works closely with internal teams and external accountants as needed. Key Responsibilities 1.Accounting Operations * Manage and oversee daily ...
Senior Accountant -Bilingual Mandarin
Irvine, CA · On-site
$70K - $85K/yr
This role supports day-to-day accounting operations and works closely with internal teams and external accountants as needed. Key Responsibilities 1.Accounting Operations * Manage and oversee daily ...
Quick apply
Senior Accountant -Bilingual Mandarin
Irvine, CA · On-site
$70K - $85K/yr
This role supports day-to-day accounting operations and works closely with internal teams and external accountants as needed. Key Responsibilities 1.Accounting Operations * Manage and oversee daily ...
Prepares and reviews journal entries, internal and external accounting financial statements, schedules, and reports of moderate complexity in one or more specialized areas. Use computer systems to ...
New
Prepares and reviews journal entries, internal and external accounting financial statements, schedules, and reports of moderate complexity in one or more specialized areas. Use computer systems to ...
New
Senior Accountant -Bilingual Mandarin
Irvine, CA · On-site
$70K - $85K/yr
This role supports day-to-day accounting operations and works closely with internal teams and external accountants as needed. Key Responsibilities 1.Accounting Operations * Manage and oversee daily ...
Quick apply
Senior Accountant -Bilingual Mandarin
Irvine, CA · On-site
$70K - $85K/yr
This role supports day-to-day accounting operations and works closely with internal teams and external accountants as needed. Key Responsibilities 1.Accounting Operations * Manage and oversee daily ...
Accountant II
Indianapolis, IN · On-site
Prepares and reviews journal entries, internal and external accounting financial statements, schedules, and reports of moderate complexity in one or more specialized areas. Use computer systems to ...
New
Accountant II
Indianapolis, IN · On-site
Prepares and reviews journal entries, internal and external accounting financial statements, schedules, and reports of moderate complexity in one or more specialized areas. Use computer systems to ...
New
Prepares and reviews journal entries, internal and external accounting financial statements, schedules, and reports of moderate complexity in one or more specialized areas. Use computer systems to ...
Prepares and reviews journal entries, internal and external accounting financial statements, schedules, and reports of moderate complexity in one or more specialized areas. Use computer systems to ...
Accountant
Loudonville, OH · On-site
$65K - $75K/yr
Coordinate with external accounting partners regarding tax filings, audits, and reporting obligations. * Monitor internal controls and safeguard organizational assets. * Support asset management and ...
Accountant
Loudonville, OH · On-site
$65K - $75K/yr
Coordinate with external accounting partners regarding tax filings, audits, and reporting obligations. * Monitor internal controls and safeguard organizational assets. * Support asset management and ...
Commercial Real Estate Accountant
$90K - $100K/yr
Support external auditors and third-party accounting firms during tax filings. * Develop and implement process improvements for efficiency and accuracy. * Mentor/oversee 1-2 junior accounting staff.
Quick apply
Commercial Real Estate Accountant
$90K - $100K/yr
Support external auditors and third-party accounting firms during tax filings. * Develop and implement process improvements for efficiency and accuracy. * Mentor/oversee 1-2 junior accounting staff.
Be Seen First
Staff Auditor
Chicago, IL · On-site
$55K - $65K/yr
Actively participate in firm-wide projects, training programs (internal and external), networking, and other firm initiatives. Qualifications: * Bachelor's degree in accounting, eligibility to sit ...
Quick apply
Be Seen First
Staff Auditor
Chicago, IL · On-site
$55K - $65K/yr
Actively participate in firm-wide projects, training programs (internal and external), networking, and other firm initiatives. Qualifications: * Bachelor's degree in accounting, eligibility to sit ...
Accountant III
South Bend, IN · On-site
Prepares and reviews journal entries, internal and external accounting financial statements, schedules and reports of moderate complexity in one or more specialized areas. Use computer systems to ...
Accountant III
South Bend, IN · On-site
Prepares and reviews journal entries, internal and external accounting financial statements, schedules and reports of moderate complexity in one or more specialized areas. Use computer systems to ...
Prepares and reviews journal entries, internal and external accounting financial statements, schedules and reports of moderate complexity in one or more specialized areas. Use computer systems to ...
Prepares and reviews journal entries, internal and external accounting financial statements, schedules and reports of moderate complexity in one or more specialized areas. Use computer systems to ...
External Accountant information
See salary details
$34.5K - $40.3K
2% of jobs
$40.3K - $46K
4% of jobs
$46K - $51.8K
12% of jobs
$54.3K is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$51.8K - $57.6K
16% of jobs
The median wage is $62.7K / yr.
$57.6K - $63.4K
18% of jobs
$63.4K - $69.1K
16% of jobs
$72.3K is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$69.1K - $74.9K
13% of jobs
$74.9K - $80.7K
10% of jobs
$80.7K - $86.5K
5% of jobs
$86.5K - $92.2K
2% of jobs
$92.2K - $98K
2% of jobs
$34.5K
$65.8K
$98K
How much do external accountant jobs pay per year?
As of Jul 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for external accountant in the United States is $65,812.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $54,000.00 and $74,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.
What are external accountants?
External accountants are professionals who provide accounting services to businesses or individuals from outside the organization, rather than being employed directly by them. They typically work for accounting firms or as independent consultants and are responsible for tasks such as auditing financial statements, preparing tax returns, and offering financial advisory services. Their objective perspective helps ensure financial accuracy and compliance with regulations. Companies often hire external accountants to bring specialized expertise and maintain impartiality in financial reporting.
What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an External Accountant, and why are they important?
To thrive as an External Accountant, you need strong analytical skills, accounting knowledge, and a relevant degree or certification such as CPA or ACCA. Familiarity with accounting software like QuickBooks, SAP, or Oracle, and proficiency in Excel are typically required. Attention to detail, effective communication, and ethical integrity are vital soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure accurate financial reporting, compliance with regulations, and high-quality service for clients.
What is the difference between External Accountant vs Bookkeeper?
| Aspect | External Accountant | Bookkeeper |
|---|---|---|
| Credentials | CPA or accounting degree often required | High school diploma or associate degree typically sufficient |
| Primary Role | Financial analysis, tax planning, and reporting | Recording daily financial transactions |
| Work Environment | Consults with clients periodically, often remotely | Handles daily bookkeeping tasks, often on-site or remotely |
| Employer & Industry Usage | Accounting firms, corporations, small businesses | Small businesses, freelance, and small accounting firms |
External Accountants focus on high-level financial analysis, tax strategies, and compliance, often working with multiple clients. Bookkeepers handle daily transaction recording and data entry, providing the foundational financial data. While both roles are essential for financial management, External Accountants typically require advanced credentials and offer strategic insights, whereas Bookkeepers focus on accurate record-keeping.
How does an External Accountant typically interact with client teams and internal stakeholders during an audit or financial review?
External Accountants frequently collaborate with both client employees and internal colleagues, such as audit managers or tax specialists, throughout each engagement. You'll often coordinate directly with client finance teams to request documentation, clarify transactions, and discuss findings, requiring clear communication and professionalism. Internally, you'll work closely with your firm's audit or accounting team to share updates, delegate tasks, and ensure compliance with relevant standards. This role demands strong interpersonal skills and the ability to build trust while managing multiple priorities under tight deadlines.
More about External Accountant jobs
What job categories do people searching External Accountant jobs look for? The top searched job categories for External Accountant jobs are:
$100K - $120K/yr
Other
Re-posted 24 days ago
Job description
Big 4 External Audit → Advisory Consulting (Fortune 1000 Projects)
Job description
Transition From External Audit Into Strategic Advisory Work
Professionals with a background in public accounting audit often reach a point where they want broader exposure to business initiatives while continuing guaranteed bonus)
- Bonus for travel + extra hours
- Many other benefits, very extensive comp plan
- $5K relocation
An established professional services organization is seeking experienced auditors to join a client advisory team supporting senior finance leadership at large and mid-sized companies. The role involves working on complex accounting, reporting, and finance transformation initiatives across a variety of industries.
This position offers the opportunity to move beyond recurring audit cycles while continuing to leverage a strong accounting foundation in a consulting environment.
Responsibilities:
- Team members work alongside client finance leadership on a variety of projects, which may include:
- Preparing organizations for capital markets transactions or regulatory reporting requirements
- Supporting accounting considerations during acquisitions, divestitures, or reorganizations
- Improving financial reporting processes and controls
- Advising on technical accounting topics and complex accounting treatments
- Assisting finance teams with special initiatives and high-priority projects
- Assignments vary by engagement and provide exposure to different industries and business challenges.
Candidate Profile:
- This role is designed for professionals who bring a strong technical accounting foundation and experience working with complex organizations.
Typical qualifications include:
- Background in external audit within a large public accounting environment
- Approximately 3–6 years of professional experience
- Experience working with large or complex clients
- Solid understanding of U.S. GAAP and financial reporting
- Ability to collaborate directly with client finance teams and stakeholders
- Candidates at the senior associate or early manager level are generally the strongest fit.
Backgrounds That Are Less Aligned With This Role:
This opportunity is primarily focused on individuals coming from an external audit. Candidates whose experience is mainly in the following areas may find the role less aligned:
- Internal audit
- Corporate FP&A or finance planning roles
- ERP or systems implementation
- Tax-focused positions
- Accounting roles exclusively within industry environments
Work Environment:
- Open to candidates based in the United States
- Flexible working arrangements depending on project requirements
- Some travel may be required based on client engagements
What This Opportunity Offers:
- Exposure to complex accounting and finance projects
- Direct collaboration with senior finance leaders
- The ability to broaden experience beyond traditional audit work
- A structured professional services environment focused on advisory work
Compensation:
- $100K - $120K base
- 30% guaranteed bonus on top for the first 2 years paid monthly
- $130K - $156K (Base +