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Independent Accountant Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Senior Project Accountant

Chicago, IL ยท On-site

$81K - $105K/yr

Acts as an Independent Accountant during project forecast meetings to mitigate financial risk * Supervises interns * Supports a positive and inclusive work environment Qualifications EXPERIENCE ...

Senior Accountant

Nashville, TN ยท On-site

$71K - $89K/yr

Coordinate external audits, working closely with the independent accounting firm * Coordinate timely preparation and review of month-end balance sheet reconciliations, consolidation activities, and ...

Apply Early

At Priority Life Care, our mission is to light the way in senior care, with respect to affordability and independence. ACCOUNTANT: We are seeking a detail-oriented and self-driven Accountant to ...

Accountant

Fort Wayne, IN ยท On-site

$10K/mo

At Priority Life Care, our mission is to light the way in senior care, with respect to affordability and independence. ACCOUNTANT: We are seeking a detail-oriented and self-driven Accountant to ...

We are looking for a reliable, stable, experienced Senior Accountant to join our non-traditional CP ... independently, with minimal supervision - Professional appearance and manner We have grown at a ...

We are looking for a reliable, stable, experienced Senior Accountant to join our non-traditional CP ... independently, with minimal supervision - Professional appearance and manner We have grown at a ...

Junior Accountant

Fort Wayne, IN

$43K - $54K/yr

At Priority Life Care, our mission is to light the way in senior care, with respect to affordability and independence. Accounting Specialist (Jr. Accountant) The Accounting Specialist supports the ...

Prepares required supporting data and assists in completion of year end audit performed by an independent accounting firm. * Assists with Training new associates mainly in Accounts Payable and AR as ...

Prepares required supporting data and assists in completion of year end audit performed by an independent accounting firm. * Assists with Training new associates mainly in Accounts Payable and AR as ...

Part Time Accountant

Woodbury, NY ยท On-site

$35 - $45/hr

Growing peer-reviewed Long Island CPA Firm seeking an experienced part time accountant. 2-4 days ... Must be able to work independently * Strong analytical and problem solving skills Flexible hours ...

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Independent Accountant information

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How much do independent accountant jobs pay per week?

As of Jul 6, 2026, the average weekly pay for independent accountant in the United States is $1,089.33, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $721.15 and $1,211.54 per week, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

Independent accountants or highly experienced CPAs working in specialized fields such as forensic accounting, consulting, or managing large client portfolios can potentially earn $500,000 or more annually. Achieving this level typically requires advanced certifications, extensive experience, a strong client base, and often working in high-demand or niche markets.

What are independent accountants and what do they do?

Independent accountants are professionals who provide accounting services to individuals or organizations on a contract or freelance basis, rather than as employees of a specific company. They handle tasks such as preparing financial statements, managing tax filings, conducting audits, and offering financial advice. Independent accountants work with a variety of clients and industries, maintaining objectivity and confidentiality. Their role is essential for ensuring accurate financial reporting and compliance with regulations.

How does an Independent Accountant typically manage client communication and workload across multiple projects?

As an Independent Accountant, managing client communication and workload efficiently is crucial, since you'll often juggle several clients and projects simultaneously. Many professionals use secure project management tools and cloud-based accounting software to track deliverables, deadlines, and client correspondence. Proactive scheduling, clear communication regarding timelines, and setting expectations with clients help prevent misunderstandings and ensure smooth workflow. Building strong organizational habits and maintaining regular check-ins with clients are common strategies to keep projects on track.

What is the difference between Independent Accountant vs Bookkeeper?

AspectIndependent AccountantBookkeeper
CredentialsCPA or accounting degree often requiredLess formal education, often no certification needed
Work EnvironmentTypically works independently or with clients, often in offices or remotelyUsually works in-house or small business settings
Job ResponsibilitiesFinancial analysis, tax preparation, auditing, consultingRecording transactions, maintaining ledgers, data entry
Industry UsageUsed across various industries for complex financial tasksCommon in small businesses for daily bookkeeping

While both Independent Accountants and Bookkeepers handle financial data, Independent Accountants typically have advanced credentials and perform complex financial tasks like audits and tax planning. Bookkeepers focus on recording daily transactions and maintaining accurate ledgers. The roles often overlap in small businesses, but the scope and qualifications differ significantly.

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

To thrive as an Independent Accountant, you need a strong grasp of accounting principles, tax regulations, and financial analysis, typically backed by a degree in accounting or finance and, often, CPA certification. Familiarity with accounting software such as QuickBooks, Xero, and tax preparation tools is essential for efficient financial management. Excellent organizational skills, integrity, and clear client communication set successful independent accountants apart. These skills ensure accurate financial reporting, regulatory compliance, and trustworthy client relationships, which are critical for sustaining and growing an independent practice.

What does an independent accountant do?

An independent accountant provides financial auditing, tax preparation, and consulting services to clients without being employed by them. They analyze financial statements, ensure compliance with regulations, and use accounting software to deliver accurate financial reports. This role often requires professional certification such as CPA and the ability to work independently or as part of a consulting firm.

Can you work independently as an accountant?

Yes, independent accountants, also known as freelance or self-employed accountants, can work independently by managing their own clients, setting their schedules, and providing accounting services such as bookkeeping, tax preparation, and financial consulting. They often use accounting software and may need relevant certifications like CPA to enhance credibility and attract clients.

Can you make $100,000 as an accountant?

Experienced independent accountants with specialized skills, certifications, and a strong client base can earn $100,000 or more annually. Income varies based on factors such as location, years of experience, and the complexity of services provided, with some accountants working as consultants or running their own firms reaching higher earnings.
More about Independent Accountant jobs
What cities are hiring for Independent Accountant jobs? Cities with the most Independent Accountant job openings:
Infographic showing various Independent Accountant job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 88% Full Time, 4% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 4% Nights. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $56,645 per year, or $27.2 per hour.
Senior Project Accountant

Senior Project Accountant

Gilbane Building Company

Chicago, IL โ€ข On-site

$81K - $105K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement

Posted 10 days ago


Job description

Overview

Are you looking for a highly rewarding opportunity that provides extensive career growth opportunity? Gilbane is seeking aย Senior Accountantย that is a mid-level professional capable of fulfilling the project accounting and project financial forecasting requirements of multiple mid-sized and/or large projects, including day-to-day interface with project management, client and subcontractor personnel.ย This role will sit primarily in the office but travel to the project job sitesย may be required forย meetingsย with the project teams and subcontractors.

Who are we?ย ย 

As a Top-10 ENR Contractor, Gilbane is a family-owned business with 45 offices that has been shaping communities since 1870. Consistently recognized as one of the most reputable construction management firms in the country, Gilbane is committed to delivering projects safely and on-time. You will have the opportunity to build schools, labs, hospitals, corporate offices, sports arenas and more!ย 

We are dedicated to building a diverse, inclusive and authentic workplace, so if you're excited about this role but your past experience doesn't align perfectly with every qualification in the job description, we encourage you to apply anyway. You may be just the right candidate for this or other roles.

Who Are You?ย 

You are someone who acts inclusively, showing empathy and treating others with respect and dignity in order to uphold Gilbane's core value of Caring and "People First" workplace culture. You seek to listen in order to understand and can convey information clearly. You're a strong problem solver who can identify, prioritize, and implement alternatives for solutions, and you demonstrate adaptability by collaborating with others and supporting team members to achieve excellence. A self-starter who shows passion, commitment, and ownership all while delivering on business outcomes and driving results. You're someone who identifies opportunities for new and improved ways of doing things that result in value-add solutions.ย ย 

Your core values match Gilbane's: Integrity, Caring, Teamwork, Toughmindedness, Dedication to Excellence, Discipline, Loyalty, and Entrepreneurship.ย 

What's in it for you?ย 

The Senior Accountant is considered aย mid-levelย positionย withinย our Business Unit Accounting job family. By joining the company at this level, you have opportunity to grow in title,ย compensation,ย and responsibility. You will work with a teamย of experiencedย professionals that will provideย initial training and guidance, and long-term partnership. Additionally,ย Gilbane offers employees multi-dimensional training opportunities through a number of resources.ย Youย will be able to enroll in trainings through our award-winning Gilbane University to build leadership and technical skills.ย 

Responsibilities
  • Manages contracts, amendments, insurance, bonds, SOV, Files, and Co Policies
  • Conducts timely and accurate reviews of requisitions and lien waivers
  • Sets up and properly formats project financial forecasts to meet both the internal team and client reporting needs
  • Manages monthly project forecast meetings and maintains accurate ETCs for labor and expenses
  • Evaluates change management for reporting inconsistencies
  • Ensures timely management of accounts receivable and payables
  • Manages the project financial closeout process
  • Develops and maintains positive professional relationships both internally and externally
  • Coaches and mentors less experienced team members
  • Reviews and understands cost proposals
  • Understands and manages various contract types and delivery methods
  • Assists the Accounting Manager or Business Controller with monthly Work in Process (WIP) process
  • Stretches assignments as needed by the business such as overseeing one accountant
  • Acts as an Independent Accountant during project forecast meetings to mitigate financial risk
  • Supervises interns
  • Supports a positive and inclusive work environment
Qualifications

EXPERIENCE/EDUCATION

  • Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, Business, or a related field
  • 6-10 years of experience
  • Or equivalent combination of education and experience

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES

  • Strong written and verbal communication skills
  • Proficient in Microsoft Excel and Word
  • Ability to learn construction management and payment management software
  • Knowledge of the overall project execution process including budgeting, project forecasting, cost control, schedule, anticipated cost, and project profitability
  • Knowledge of construction industry insurance products and construction pricing components
  • Ability to communicate effectively, listens to understand, and can clearly convey information in all forms based on the audience to ensure shared meaning of the message
  • Acts inclusively by ensuring that actions and behaviors are respectful, shows empathy and treats others with dignity; leverages capabilities and insights of individuals with diverse perspectives, abilities, and motivation
  • Ability to solve problems by identifying, prioritizing, and implementing alternatives for a solution
  • Demonstrates agility and adaptability by maintaining effectiveness and adjusting to change, exploring the rationale, trying new approaches, and collaborating with others to make the change successful
  • Ability to show passion and commitment while delivering on business outcomes; ability to create a sense of individual ownership and accountability
  • Ability to identify opportunities for new and improved ways of doing things that result in value added, unique, and differentiated solutions

Salary to be determined based on factors such as geographic location, skills, education, and/or experience of the applicant, as well as the internal equity and alignment with the team.

For Chicago, IL, this ranges from $83,200.00-$105,000.00 plus benefits and retirement program.

Gilbane offers an excellent total compensation package which includes competitive health and welfare benefits and a generous profit-sharing/401k plan. We invest in our employees' education and have built Gilbane University into a top training organization in the construction industry. Qualified applicants who are offered a position must pass a pre-employment substance abuse test.

Gilbane is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, color, national origin, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, protected veteran status, or disability status.

Note to Recruiters, Placement Agencies, and Similar Organizations: Gilbane does not accept unsolicited resumes from agencies. Please do not forward unsolicited agency resumes to our jobs alias, website, or to any Gilbane employee. Gilbane will not pay fees to any third party agency or firm and will not be responsible for any agency fees associated with unsolicited resumes. Unsolicited resumes received will be considered property of Gilbane and will be processed accordingly.ย 

Employment Type: FULL_TIME