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Federal Accounting Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Aretum

Junior Accountant

Mclean, VA · Remote

$90K - $105K/yr

Apply Federal Accounting Standards Advisory Board (FASAB) standards and Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP) to analyze, reconcile, and report intergovernmental transactions. * Prepare ...

Jobtailor

Financial Policy Manager

Arlington, VA · On-site

$140 - $180/hr

* • Conduct research on current and emerging accounting standards and federal financial reporting guidance * • Perform benchmarking on accounting and reporting best practices across the DoW and U.S ...

Markon

Accountant

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$105K - $115K/yr

Maintain accounting data within sponsor financial systems while ensuring accuracy and compliance with federal accounting standards. * Support financial forecasting, budgeting, and Working Capital ...

Markon

Accountant

Chantilly, VA

$105K - $115K/yr

Maintain accounting data within sponsor financial systems while ensuring accuracy and compliance with federal accounting standards. * Support financial forecasting, budgeting, and Working Capital ...

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All JobsFederal Accounting JobsFederal Accounting Jobs in Washington

Federal Accounting information

See Washington salary details

$49.8K

$108.3K

$156.3K

How much do federal accounting jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average yearly pay for federal accounting in Washington is $108,343.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $88,300.00 and $126,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is federal accounting?

Federal accounting refers to the process of recording, analyzing, and reporting financial transactions in accordance with laws and regulations specific to the federal government. It ensures transparency, accountability, and proper use of public funds by following standards such as those set by the Federal Accounting Standards Advisory Board (FASAB). Federal accountants manage budgets, track expenditures, prepare financial statements, and support audits for government agencies. Their work helps maintain the integrity of financial information and supports decision-making within the federal government.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a federal accountant?

To thrive as a Federal Accountant, you need a solid understanding of governmental accounting principles, financial reporting, and compliance with federal regulations, usually supported by a degree in accounting or finance and, often, a CPA or CGFM certification. Familiarity with federal financial management systems, such as Oracle Federal Financials or SAP, and proficiency in data analysis tools are typically required. Strong attention to detail, analytical thinking, and effective communication skills are crucial soft skills for this role. These competencies ensure accurate financial management, regulatory compliance, and strong stewardship of public funds within federal agencies.

What are some unique challenges faced by federal accountants compared to those in the private sector?

Federal accountants often navigate complex regulatory frameworks, such as the Federal Accounting Standards Advisory Board (FASAB) guidelines, and must ensure compliance with stringent government reporting requirements. Unlike private sector roles, federal accountants are responsible for managing appropriated funds, tracking expenditures against budgets, and preparing detailed reports for audits and congressional review. This environment frequently involves working with large teams across multiple agencies, requiring strong communication and collaboration skills. Adaptability and attention to detail are key to handling frequent policy updates and tight deadlines typical in federal government settings.

What is the difference between Federal Accounting vs Government Accountant?

AspectFederal AccountingGovernment Accountant
CredentialsCPA, CGFM often preferredCPA, CGFM often preferred
Work EnvironmentFederal agencies, Department of Treasury, OMBLocal, state, or federal government agencies
Industry UsagePrimarily in federal governmentAcross all levels of government
Job FocusFederal financial reporting, compliance, auditsBudgeting, financial management, compliance

Federal Accounting and Government Accountant roles share similar credentials and work environments, often requiring CPA or CGFM certifications. Federal Accounting typically focuses on federal financial reporting and compliance within federal agencies, while Government Accountants work across various government levels, handling budgeting and financial management. Both roles are essential for maintaining transparency and accountability in public sector finances.

Does the federal government hire federal accountants?

Yes, the federal government hires federal accountants to manage financial operations, conduct audits, and ensure compliance with regulations. These positions are available across various agencies and often require knowledge of government accounting standards and certifications such as CPA or CGFM.

What are popular job titles related to Federal Accounting jobs in Washington?

For Federal Accounting jobs in Washington, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Federal Accounting jobs in Washington look for?

The top searched job categories for Federal Accounting jobs in Washington are:

Federal Accounting jobs near you
Infographic showing various Federal Accounting job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, and 14% Part Time. Highlights an 70% In-person, 13% Hybrid, and 17% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $108,343 per year, or $52.1 per hour.

Accountant - Federal Accounting Mid-Level SME

Aderas, Inc

Reston, VA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 20 days ago

Job description

The Accountant will support federal accounting and financial operations by performing, and/or providing guidance and/or providing expectations on general ledger activities aligned with U.S. Standard General Ledger (USSGL) requirements. This role ensures accurate financial reporting, compliance with federal accounting standards, and timely execution of monthly, quarterly, and year-end close activities.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Supporting and/or performing general ledger accounting in accordance with the USSGL and federal financial regulations
  • Supporting and/or executing month-end, quarter-end, and year-end close processes, including reconciliations and journal entries
  • Supporting and/or preparing Treasury reporting (GTAS, G-Invoicing, IPAC, FACTS reporting where applicable)
  • Supporting budget execution, fund control, and funds tracking activities
  • Supporting and/or conducting account reconciliations, including fund balance with Treasury (FBwT)
  • Assisting with internal and external audits (GAO, IG, independent audits)
  • Supporting Statement of Budgetary Resources (SBR) and financial statement preparation
  • Guiding and/or maintaining internal controls in accordance with OMB A-123
  • Supporting and/or performing variance analysis and financial data validation
  • Working within federal financial systems (e.g., Oracle Federal Financials, SAP ECC/S4, Momentum, Pegasys)

Qualifications:

  • Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field
  • 3+ years of federal accounting experience required
  • Experience with USSGL, Treasury Financial Manual (TFM), and GAAP
  • Prior experience supporting federal financial systems
  • Strong Excel and financial reporting skills
  • Ability to analyze, reconcile, and interpret large data sets
  • U.S. citizen able to pass a government-level background check and obtain a Public Trust.

Preferred Certifications & Skills:

  • CPA, CGFM, CDFM, or working toward certification
  • Experience in government agencies or a federal consulting environment

  • Knowledge of OMB Circulars, GAO Green Book, and FASAB standards

Join the Aderas team!

Aderas is looking to recruit and retain only the best and brightest. If you like working with emerging technologies, using your unique personal skills to solve technical, functional, and organizational issues, and can easily adapt to the ever-changing IT market, then Aderas is the place for you! We are a vibrant company delivering implementation services & support for enterprise solutions and custom application development. We strive to form long-term partnerships with our clients to foster an environment based on trust, a proven history of delivery, and camaraderie.

Why Aderas?

We sincerely try to shape our employees' lives by administering a generous package of employee benefits. Our company culture encourages collaboration, creative thinking, and growth. Headquartered in Reston Town Center, in Reston, VA, the Aderas main office is a short step away from shopping, dining, and a movie theater.

Beyond the tangible and intangible rewards, Aderas provides the following:

  • Pay for Life, AD&D, Short-term disability, and Long-term disability at no cost to the employee.
  • Employer contribution toward monthly health insurance premiums.
  • 401k plan which employees are eligible for after being with the company for 3 months.
  • Safe Harbor plan in which Aderas contributes 3% of employees' salaries once a year.
  • A week of paid training and reimbursement for approved professional courses and tests.
  • Monthly allowance for cell phone bills.

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