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Graduate Accountant Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

HomeServices of America

Tax Accountant

Des Moines, IA · On-site

If no CPA designation or graduate business degree, six or more years of related work experience, two of which is in income tax accounting. Knowledge and Skills: * Strong knowledge of tax law and ...

HomeServices of America

Tax Accountant

Des Moines, IA · On-site

If no CPA designation or graduate business degree, six or more years of related work experience, two of which is in income tax accounting. Knowledge and Skills: * Strong knowledge of tax law and ...

Eckerd Connects

Accounting Clerk

Denison, IA · On-site

$18.28/hr

High School graduate or equivalent required, with courses in general accounting and bookkeeping, one-year experience as a general accounting clerk preferred. * Valid driver's license with an ...

Varsity Tutors

CPA AUD Tutor

Iowa City, IA · Remote

$35 - $40/hr

Expertise in CPA AUD and the ability to explain concepts clearly. * Ability to personalize lessons ... Priority given to those with tutoring experience, teaching experience, and graduate-level education.

Varsity Tutors

CPA AUD Tutor

Ames, IA · Remote

$35 - $40/hr

Expertise in CPA AUD and the ability to explain concepts clearly. * Ability to personalize lessons ... Priority given to those with tutoring experience, teaching experience, and graduate-level education.

EICC

Faculty, Accounting

Riverdale, IA

$54K - $62K/yr

Employee Assistance Program Required Qualifications Master's Degree in Accounting or a Master's Degree with 12 graduate semester hours in a related field with at least 6 graduate hours in accounting.

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All JobsGraduate Accountant JobsGraduate Accountant Jobs in Iowa

Graduate Accountant information

See Iowa salary details

$13

$24

$39

How much do graduate accountant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for graduate accountant in Iowa is $24.72, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.86 and $27.79 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.

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

Graduate accountants typically earn lower salaries, with earnings increasing with experience, specialization, and seniority. High-level senior accountants or those in specialized fields such as forensic or tax accounting can potentially reach six-figure salaries, but earning $500,000 annually is uncommon and usually requires executive-level roles or ownership in firms. Achieving such income often involves additional certifications, extensive experience, and leadership responsibilities.

Can you make $100,000 as an accountant?

Graduate accountants typically start with lower salaries, but experienced accountants, especially those with certifications like CPA or CMA, can earn $100,000 or more annually. Salary levels depend on factors such as location, industry, years of experience, and specialization.

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.

What are graduate accountants?

Graduate accountants are recent university graduates who have completed a degree in accounting or a related field and are starting their professional careers in accounting. They typically work under supervision, assisting with tasks such as preparing financial statements, conducting audits, and supporting senior accountants or managers. Graduate accountants gain practical experience and often work towards professional certifications, such as CPA or CA, to advance their careers.

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.

Is 30 too late to get into accounting?

Graduate accountants can enter the profession at any age, including 30 or older. Success depends on acquiring relevant skills, such as proficiency in accounting software and certifications like CPA or ACCA, and gaining practical experience through internships or entry-level roles.

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 Iowa? The most popular types of Graduate Accountant jobs in Iowa are:
What are popular job titles related to Graduate Accountant jobs in Iowa? For Graduate Accountant jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Graduate Accountant jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for Graduate Accountant jobs in Iowa are:
Graduate Accountant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Graduate Accountant job openings in Iowa as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 86% Physical, 9% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $51,424 per year, or $24.7 per hour.

Tax Accountant

HomeServices of America

Des Moines, IA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 18 days ago

Job description

The Tax Accountant is responsible for preparing the federal and state income tax returns, quarterly estimated tax payments, monthly tax provisions and associated supporting work papers for the separate affiliated groups and partnerships.

Job Duties and Responsibilities (Essential Job Functions)  Common job activities are listed below; actual position responsibilities may vary. Refer to your manager or human resources for specific duties and performance expectations.

  1. Participates as a member of the compliance team to prepare federal and state income tax returns. (50-65%)
  2. Prepares monthly or quarterly income tax provisions and performs other tax accounting procedures. (10-20%)
  3. Prepares quarterly federal and state income tax estimated payments. (5-10%)
  4. Supports tax forecasting and annual budget and 10-year plan process. (0-5%)
  5. Researches fundamental tax questions as needed. (0-5%)
  6. Communicates with internal and external stakeholders, including Federal and State tax authorities, and outside consultants. (0-5%)
  7. Perform any additional responsibilities as requested or assigned. (0-5%)

Performance Expectations

  • Meet all performance and behavior expectations outlined in the company performance appraisal form or communicated by management.
  • Perform responsibilities as directed achieving desired results within expected time frames and with a high degree of quality and professionalism.
  • Establish and maintain positive and productive work relationships with all staff, customers and business partners.
  • Demonstrate the behavioral and technical competencies necessary to effectively complete job responsibilities. Take personal initiative for technical and professional development.
  • Follow the company HR Policy, the Code of Business Conduct and all subsidiary and department policies and procedures, including protecting confidential company information, attending work punctually and regularly, and following good safety practices in all activities.

Qualifications

Education:

  • Bachelor’s degree in accounting.

Experience:

  • Four or more years of related work experience, two of which is in income tax accounting with a Certified Public Accountant designation or a graduate business degree.
  • If no CPA designation or graduate business degree, six or more years of related work experience, two of which is in income tax accounting.

Knowledge and Skills:

  • Strong knowledge of tax law and procedures, tax research skills, familiarity with various tax returns and schedules.
  • Strong accounting and financial statement knowledge.
  • Strong computer software skills.
  • Effective oral and written communication skills.
  • Effective analytical and problem-solving skills.
  • Ability to prioritize and handle multiple tasks and projects concurrently.

Other (licenses, certifications, schedule flexibility/OT, travel, etc.):

  • Extended work hours will be required, especially during the tax compliance filing process or other critical times.

We offer a full suite of benefits including Medical, Health Savings Account, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance, Paid Vacation (PTO), 401(k) with employer match, Flexible Spending Account, and Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

Equal Opportunity Employer

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