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How much do government accounting jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for government accounting in the United States is $22.08, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.75 and $24.52 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Government Accountant, you need a solid understanding of accounting principles, government regulations, and financial reporting, often supported by a bachelor’s degree in accounting or finance. Familiarity with government accounting software, such as SAP or Oracle, and certifications like CPA or CGFM are highly valued. Attention to detail, integrity, and strong analytical and communication skills set top professionals apart in this field. These skills ensure accurate financial management, compliance with regulations, and transparency in public sector operations.

What is the difference between Government Accounting vs Public Accountant?

AspectGovernment AccountingPublic Accountant
CredentialsCPA often preferred, government-specific certificationsCPA required, with additional certifications optional
Work EnvironmentGovernment agencies, public sectorAccounting firms, client offices, various industries
Employer & IndustryFederal, state, local government agenciesPrivate firms, corporations, non-profits
Work FocusPublic funds, compliance, government regulationsFinancial audits, tax services, consulting

While both roles require CPA credentials and involve accounting skills, Government Accounting primarily focuses on managing public funds and ensuring compliance within government agencies. Public Accountants serve clients across various industries, providing audits, tax, and consulting services. The key difference lies in their work environment and the nature of their responsibilities, with Government Accounting centered on public sector financial management.

What is government accounting?

Government accounting is the process of recording, analyzing, and reporting financial transactions related to government entities, such as federal, state, or local agencies. Unlike private sector accounting, government accounting focuses on stewardship of public funds, ensuring transparency, accountability, and compliance with laws and regulations. Its primary purpose is to provide accurate financial information to legislators, government officials, and the public, enabling effective decision-making and oversight. Government accountants may handle budgeting, auditing, and financial reporting specific to governmental standards.

What are some common challenges faced in a government accounting role, and how can they be managed?

Government accountants often navigate complex regulatory frameworks and face strict compliance requirements, which can be challenging due to frequent changes in laws and policies. Managing multiple funding sources and adhering to specific budgetary constraints also requires strong attention to detail and organizational skills. Staying updated on government accounting standards (such as GASB) and maintaining clear communication with other departments can help address these challenges effectively. Regular training and collaboration with colleagues are key strategies for success in this environment.

What Are the Qualifications to Get a Job in Government Accounting?

The primary qualifications for a government accounting job are a bachelor's degree in a relevant field and seven or more years of government accounting experience. Many government accountants start in a role that is not as focused on government work to gain experience before transferring to this position. Adherence to government regulations is critical for most companies that offer this job, so employers strongly prefer applicants who have extensive experience. Fulfilling the duties and responsibilities of a government accounting job requires communication skills, interpersonal skills, and the ability to travel as needed. Industry certifications (such as Certified Public Accountant) are preferred but not always required.

More about Government Accounting jobs
What cities are hiring for Government Accounting jobs? Cities with the most Government Accounting job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Government Accounting jobs? The most popular types of Government Accounting jobs are:
What states have the most Government Accounting jobs? States with the most job openings for Government Accounting jobs include:
Government Accounting jobs near you
Infographic showing various Government Accounting job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 8% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 6% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,928 per year, or $22.1 per hour.
Government Accounting & Compliance Manager

Government Accounting & Compliance Manager

LaBine and Associates

Cambridge, MA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 7 days ago

Job description

Government Accounting & Compliance Manager
FAR | DFARS | CAS | DCAA | DCMA | Federal Contracting
Are you an experienced Government Accounting professional who thrives in a highly regulated federal contracting environment? Do you enjoy serving as the expert organizations rely on to navigate complex FAR, DFARS, CAS, and DCAA compliance requirements?
We're seeking a Government Accounting & Compliance Manager to lead critical compliance initiatives, oversee government submissions, support DCAA and DCMA audits, and ensure our accounting practices meet the highest standards of federal regulatory compliance. This is a highly visible role where you'll partner with executive leadership and influence financial strategy while serving as the company's subject matter expert on government accounting.
If you're looking for an opportunity where your expertise truly matters, we'd love to hear from you.
What You'll Do
As the Government Accounting & Compliance Manager, you'll be responsible for ensuring the company's accounting systems, policies, and practices comply with all applicable federal regulations while supporting the successful execution of government contracts.
Key Responsibilities
  • Lead government accounting compliance across the organization
  • Develop, maintain, and improve policies and procedures to ensure compliance with:
    • Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR)
    • Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement (DFARS)
    • Cost Accounting Standards (CAS)
    • DCAA guidance
    • DCMA requirements
    • Uniform Guidance
  • Prepare and oversee government submissions including:
    • Incurred Cost Submissions (ICS)
    • Forward Pricing Rate Proposals (FPRP)
    • Contract bid proposals
    • CAS cost impact and General Dollar Magnitude proposals
    • DCMA cost monitoring reports
  • Serve as the primary liaison with DCAA auditors and DCMA representatives during audits, reviews, and compliance activities.
  • Lead or support audits involving:
    • CAS Compliance
    • Forward Pricing Rate Proposals
    • Incurred Cost Audits
    • Timekeeping/Floor Checks
    • Paid Voucher Reviews
    • Uniform Guidance indirect cost rate audits
  • Maintain and update the CASB Disclosure Statement while monitoring accounting practices for compliance changes.
  • Evaluate indirect cost structures and recommend improvements that support business growth and operational efficiency.
  • Analyze indirect rates and communicate financial impacts to executive leadership.
  • Develop compliance training programs and educate internal stakeholders on government accounting requirements.
  • Create and maintain finance and compliance policies, procedures, and documentation.
  • Track audit findings and ensure timely remediation of corrective actions.
  • Review and classify non-sponsored projects.
  • Foster a collaborative, high-performing team environment while mentoring and developing staff.

What We're Looking For
We're looking for a seasoned government accounting professional who combines technical expertise with strong leadership and communication skills.
Required Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, Business, or a related discipline
  • 5+ years of progressive government accounting or finance experience supporting U.S. Federal contracts
  • Deep expertise with:
    • FAR
    • DFARS
    • Cost Accounting Standards (CAS)
    • DCAA regulations
    • DCMA compliance
    • Uniform Guidance
  • Demonstrated experience preparing government submissions and supporting federal audits
  • Experience managing or supporting DCAA and/or DCMA audits
  • Strong understanding of indirect cost rates and government contract accounting
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills
  • Ability to work independently while collaborating across Finance, Contracts, Program Management, and Executive Leadership
  • Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities and meet critical deadlines

Preferred Qualifications
  • Previous experience working directly for or closely with DCAA or DCMA
  • Experience maintaining CASB Disclosure Statements
  • Experience with Forward Pricing Rate Proposals (FPRP)
  • Experience with Incurred Cost Submissions
  • Experience supporting Cost Accounting Standards compliance initiatives
  • Prior leadership or people management experience

Why Join Us?
This is an opportunity to become a trusted advisor within a growing organization that values technical excellence and continuous improvement. You'll work alongside executive leadership, influence strategic financial decisions, and play a key role in maintaining the integrity of our government contracting operations.
If you're passionate about government accounting, compliance, and building best-in-class financial processes, we'd like to meet you.
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About LaBine and Associates

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

LaBine and Associates is a full service talent acquisition firm specializing in executive search for a myriad of industries. Through our partnerships with experienced associates, we can also provide staffing support, expert consultants, and interim executives for your company’s needs. We have deep industry knowledge with understanding in multiple industries. Our specialists include experts in banking/finance, HR/Legal, Technology, Health Care, Life Sciences, Engineering, Energy, Supply Chain, Mining, Agribusiness and manufacturing.

Industry

Professional, scientific, and technical services

Company size

11 - 50 Employees

Headquarters location

San Mateo, CA, US

Year founded

2013

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