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Graduate Accountant Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

HDR

Project Accountant 1

Irvine, CA

$65K - $85K/yr

Bachelor's degree in an undergraduate or graduate accounting, finance or closely related program * Must possess strong problem-solving and communication skills * This is an in-office position, local ...

HDR

Project Accountant 1

Irvine, CA · On-site

$65K - $85K/yr

Bachelor's degree in an undergraduate or graduate accounting, finance or closely related program * Must possess strong problem-solving and communication skills * This is an in-office position, local ...

U.S. Department of Energy (DOE)

Accountant

Folsom, CA

$50K/yr

As an Accountant, you will perform a variety of forecasting, analysis, and accounting functions ... One (1) year of graduate-level education or superior academic achievement -OR- * One (1) year (52 ...

USAJOBS - Search

Accountant

Folsom, CA

$50K/yr

As an Accountant, you will perform a variety of forecasting, analysis, and accounting functions ... One (1) year of graduate-level education or superior academic achievement -OR- * One (1) year (52 ...

Inglewood Unified School District

ACCOUNTANT

Inglewood, CA · On-site

$5.7K - $6.9K/mo

Our mission is to nurture, educate, and graduate students who are self-responsible and self ... DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS The Accountant classification performs a full range of responsible ...

Mhtb Accountancy Group Of Silicon V

Be Seen First

Staff Tax Accountant

San Jose, CA · On-site

$68K - $90K/yr

We are looking for a sharp college graduate or someone who is two years into their accounting journey to join our tax team! Our tax managers are second to none and provide very intentional and ...

Mhtb Accountancy Group Of Silicon V

Be Seen First

Staff Tax Accountant

San Jose, CA · On-site

$68K - $90K/yr

We are looking for a sharp college graduate or someone who is two years into their accounting journey to join our tax team! Our tax managers are second to none and provide very intentional and ...

Unisco

Treasury Accountant

Walnut, CA · On-site

$70K/yr

This role is ideal for a recent graduate or early-career professional with strong analytical skills ... Coordinate with internal departments on financial and accounting matters * Support insurance ...

Unis LLC

Treasury Accountant

Walnut, CA · On-site

$70K/yr

We are seeking a detail-oriented Treasury Accountant to support daily treasury, banking, insurance ... This role is ideal for a recent graduate or early-career professional with strong analytical skills ...

COFREIGHT INC

Treasury Accountant

Walnut, CA

$70K/yr

Description We are seeking a detail-oriented Treasury Accountant to support daily treasury, banking ... This role is ideal for a recent graduate or early-career professional with strong analytical skills ...

Crown Medical, Inc.

Staff Accountant

Santa Ana, CA · On-site

$57K - $75K/yr

Crown Medical has an exciting opportunity to participate as a Staff Accountant. As a new hire for ... If you are a recent college graduate or a seasoned professional looking to change careers we are ...

California State University

Accountant

Monterey, CA

$4.8K - $5.6K/mo

Accountant Apply now Job no: 558784 Work type: Staff Location: Monterey Bay Categories: Unit 9 - ... and graduate degrees. Powered by an inspiring Founding Vision Statement , CSUMB is part of the ...

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All JobsGraduate Accountant JobsGraduate Accountant Jobs in California

Graduate Accountant information

See California salary details

$14

$25

$41

How much do graduate accountant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for graduate accountant in California is $25.98, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.87 and $29.18 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges new graduate accountants face during their first year, and how can they overcome them?

Graduate Accountants often encounter challenges such as adapting to professional accounting software, balancing multiple client deadlines, and understanding complex regulatory requirements. To overcome these hurdles, it's helpful to actively seek mentorship from experienced colleagues, participate in training sessions, and maintain organized work habits. Proactively asking questions and regularly reviewing technical accounting updates can also help ease the transition and build confidence in the role.

What jobs can accounting graduates get?

Accounting graduates can pursue roles such as staff accountant, financial analyst, auditor, tax associate, or management accountant. These positions typically require knowledge of accounting principles, proficiency with accounting software, and sometimes professional certifications like CPA or ACCA.

How much does a graduate accountant earn?

A graduate accountant typically earns between $40,000 and $55,000 annually, depending on location, industry, and company size. Entry-level salaries may increase with relevant certifications like ACCA or CPA and gaining experience in accounting software such as QuickBooks or SAP.

What is the difference between Graduate Accountant vs Junior Accountant?

AspectGraduate AccountantJunior Accountant
Required CredentialsTypically a recent degree in accounting or financeOften holds a degree or is in early career stage
Work EnvironmentEntry-level, training-focused roles in accounting firms or corporate financeSupport roles in accounting departments, assisting with basic accounting tasks
Employer & Industry UsageUsed by firms hiring recent graduates for training programsCommonly used in companies for entry-level accounting support
Comparison Search IntentLooking to start a career in accountingSeeking an entry-level accounting position

The main difference between a Graduate Accountant and a Junior Accountant lies in experience and career stage. Graduate Accountants are typically recent graduates entering training programs, while Junior Accountants are early-career professionals supporting accounting functions. Both roles serve as stepping stones in the accounting industry, with Graduate Accountants focusing on learning and development, and Junior Accountants handling more routine tasks.

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

To excel as a Graduate Accountant, a solid understanding of accounting principles, a relevant degree in accounting or finance, and strong analytical skills are essential. Familiarity with accounting software such as MYOB, Xero, or QuickBooks, and working towards or holding certifications like CPA or CA is highly valued. Attention to detail, effective communication, and a proactive approach to problem-solving are standout soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure accuracy in financial reporting, compliance with regulations, and effective collaboration within finance teams.

What is a graduate accountant?

A graduate accountant assists clients or a business in handling tax issues or day-to-day accounting needs. As the name implies, graduate accountants have typically earned a bachelor’s degree in commerce with a major in accounting and can begin finding work at a firm. Daily job duties include speaking with clients through phone and email, analyzing accounts, and providing information to clients based on this data. In this role, you also continuously undergo training to keep up with new rules and regulations as they apply to the business of managing accounts. To succeed in this career, you need strong interpersonal and organizational skills as well as knowledge of tax activities. Some graduate accountants partake in an internship at a firm to gain experience and then land a job once they’ve earned the educational qualifications.

More about Graduate Accountant jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Graduate Accountant jobs in California? The most popular types of Graduate Accountant jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Graduate Accountant jobs in California? For Graduate Accountant jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Graduate Accountant jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Graduate Accountant jobs in California are:
Graduate Accountant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Graduate Accountant job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 19% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,032 per year, or $26 per hour.

Project Accountant 1

HDR

Irvine, CA

$65K - $85K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 10 days ago

HDR rating

9.1

Company rating: 9.1 out of 10

Based on 57 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

38th of 443 rated engineering

Job description

At HDR, our employee-owners are fully engaged in creating a welcoming environment where each of us is valued and respected, a place where everyone is empowered to bring their authentic selves and novel ideas to work every day. As we foster a culture of inclusion throughout our company and within our communities, we constantly ask ourselves: What is our impact on the world?
Watch Our Story:' https://www.hdrinc.com/our-story' 
Each and every role throughout our organization makes a difference in our ability to change the world for the better. Read further to learn how you could help make great things possible not only in your community, but around the world. 
We believe electricity powers modern life. As part of our Power sector, you'll help shape how electricity is generated, transmitted and delivered as global energy demands grow. From massive data centers to modernizing transmission systems, our industry-recognized engineers and scientists have been at the forefront of grid transformation for more than a century. You'll work side-by-side with these experts and contribute to reliable, resilient and sustainable power systems, helping communities thrive and industries expand. This isn't just a job, it's a chance to drive infrastructure forward, power innovation and leave your mark on our energy future.

In the role of Project Accountant 1, we'll count on you to: 
 

  • Assist in setting up new projects in Pronto/EBS. This includes accurate contract documentation, administration, and maintenance, including fee and budget entry.

  • Assist with client invoicing and collections management.

  • Assist with and help coordinate the completion of the QMS documents.

  • Order insurance and monitor insurance certificates.

  • Organize project documents and create and maintain paper and electronic files.

  • Assist multiple project managers and project teams as needed.

  • Performing special projects as needed.

  • Researching and modeling financial data

  • Researching professional accounting literature and communicating conclusions

  • Testing internal controls, documenting results of testing, and communicating conclusions

  • Participating in a team environment and developing strong communication skills

  • Testing compliance with HDR, Inc. policies and procedures

  • Development of tools for use in projecting financial results

  • Working within HDR's Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system.

  • Communicating results to financial management.

  • Working with members of accounting to document processes and internal controls\
  • Perform other duties as needed.

Due to client contract requirements, US citizenship or Permanent Resident Status (Greencard holder) is required.
 

Preferred Qualifications 
 

  • Bachelor's degree in an undergraduate or graduate accounting, finance or closely related program

  • Must possess strong problem-solving and communication skills

  • This is an in-office position, local candidates preferred

Required Qualifications
  • Associate degree in a closely related field or combination of education and relevant experience
  • Familiarity with Earned Value Management
  • Excellent verbal and written communication including grammar, punctuation, proofreading, spelling and telephone skills
  • Flexibility and ability to prioritize and handle multiple tasks and collaborate with various managers in a fast-paced environment
  • Self-motivated, well-organized and detail-oriented
  • Ability to handle confidential information
  • Proficiency with MS Office including Word and Outlook
  • An attitude and commitment to being an active participant of our employee-owned culture is a must

What We Believe
HDR is our company. Together, we build on each other's life experiences and perspectives to make great things possible every day. This shapes our collaborative culture, encourages organizational trust and connects us closer to the clients and communities we serve.
Our Commitment
As employee owners, we all have a role in creating an inclusive environment where each of us is welcomed, valued, respected and empowered to bring our authentic selves to work every day.
Our eight Employee Network Groups (Asian Pacific, Black, Hispanic/Latino(a), LGBTQ+, People with Disabilities, Veterans, Women, Young Professionals) help create a sense of belonging and foster a supportive environment where everyone is empowered to engage and contribute. Each group has an executive sponsor and is open to all employees.

What HDR employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

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About HDR

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At HDR, we specialize in engineering, architecture, environmental and construction services. While we are most well-known for adding beauty and structure to communities through high-performance buildings and smart infrastructure, we provide much more than that. We create an unshakable foundation for progress because our multidisciplinary teams also include scientists, economists, builders, analysts and artists.

Industry

Specialized design services

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Omaha, NE, US

Year founded

1917

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