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Internship Side Accounting Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

2027 Intern

Roanoke, VA · On-site

$15 - $28/hr

With a firm-wide staff of approximately 450 professionals, our accounting firm is one of the ... Excellence : Transformative Our internship program allows you to experience real tax and audit ...

Internship Side Accounting information

What is an internship side accounting position?

Internship side accounting positions are temporary roles, often filled by students or recent graduates, where individuals assist professional accountants with various tasks. These internships provide hands-on experience in areas such as bookkeeping, preparing financial statements, managing accounts payable/receivable, and supporting audits. The goal is to help interns develop foundational accounting skills, understand industry practices, and build their resumes for full-time accounting roles. Internship side accounting positions may be part-time or full-time, and can take place in accounting firms, corporate finance departments, or nonprofit organizations.

What is the difference between Internship Side Accounting vs Bookkeeper?

AspectInternship Side AccountingBookkeeper
CredentialsTypically students or entry-level, no formal certification requiredOften requires basic bookkeeping certifications or experience
Work EnvironmentTemporary, educational setting, part-timeFull-time or part-time in office or remote
Industry UsageCommon in accounting firms, internships for studentsUsed across small to large businesses for financial record-keeping

Internship Side Accounting is usually a temporary, educational role for students gaining experience, while a Bookkeeper is a more permanent position responsible for maintaining financial records. Both roles involve basic accounting tasks, but internships focus on learning, whereas bookkeeping involves ongoing record management.

What tasks and responsibilities can I expect during an accounting internship?

During an accounting internship, you can expect to assist with tasks such as data entry, reconciling accounts, preparing financial reports, and supporting audits. These responsibilities help you gain hands-on experience with accounting software, understand financial processes, and develop an eye for detail. You'll often work under the guidance of senior accountants and collaborate with other departments, which enhances both your technical skills and your ability to work in a team. This practical exposure not only reinforces your academic knowledge but also prepares you for more advanced roles in the field.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an accounting intern?

To thrive as an Accounting Intern, you need a basic understanding of accounting principles, attention to detail, and ongoing or completed coursework in accounting or finance. Familiarity with accounting software such as QuickBooks, Microsoft Excel, and possibly ERP systems is typically required. Strong organizational skills, a willingness to learn, and effective communication help you stand out in this role. These skills and qualities ensure accuracy in financial records, efficient workflow, and positive collaboration with team members.

Which internship is best for accounting students?

The best internship for accounting students typically involves roles in accounting firms, corporate finance departments, or government agencies that offer hands-on experience with financial statements, audits, and accounting software like QuickBooks or Excel. Internships that provide exposure to real-world accounting tasks and may lead to certifications such as CPA are highly valuable for career development.
What are the most commonly searched types of Side Accounting jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Side Accounting jobs in Virginia are:

$15 - $28/hr

Internship

Re-posted 6 days ago


Job description

Description
A Top 100 Firm, Brown Edwards provides assurance, tax and business advisory services to a diverse clientele. With a firm-wide staff of approximately 450 professionals, our accounting firm is one of the largest independent CPA firms in the Virginia / West Virginia / Tennessee region. We support individuals and businesses ranging from small companies to large corporations. Our success is directly attributable to an unyielding commitment to excellence in every aspect of our work.
Core Values: Integrity : Community : Respect : Excellence : Transformative
Our internship program allows you to experience real tax and audit engagements while developing firm and industry relationships. This is an opportunity to utilize one's educational background and organizational skills as one serves the firm's dynamic client base. A Tax Intern will assist in the preparation of returns and extensions under the supervision of more experienced Tax professionals. An Audit Intern will assist in problem solving and fact-finding while working side-by-side with more experienced Audit professionals who can provide direction, coaching and learning opportunities during engagements.
What your day looks like:
Tax
  • Scans tax documents into Autoflow.
  • Reviews and validates scanned documents.
  • Prepares basic tax returns.
  • Reconciles general ledger tax accounts.
  • Imports data from client's files to our workpaper files.

Audit
  • Becomes familiar with Brown Edwards' specific audit methodology to assist with various stages of the audit process.
  • Prepares and documents workpapers using firm-specific tools and templates.
  • Reviews the adequacy of client's internal control systems, may document the system for our files, and may perform testing to verify the accuracy of data provided.
  • Imports data such as working trial balance from client's files to our workpaper files.
  • Learns to prepare drafts of client's financial statements.

General
  • Learns to use accounting and tax software.
  • Participates in structured on-the-job training program.
  • Provides assistance to all levels of Associates and Partners.
  • Develops an understanding of internal CPA practices.
  • Develops an understanding of teamwork within a work environment.

What you need for this role:
  • Accounting Major's who intend to begin their careers in public accounting.
  • Sophomore, Junior, or Senior, with at least one section of Intermediate Account completed successfully.
  • 3.0 or higher GPA.
  • Aspiring to obtain the CPA certification.
  • Availability of 15-20 hours per week during Tax season (January- April), 20-40 hours per week during Audit season (May- August).
  • Strong communication, organizational, and critical thinking skills.
  • Intermediate to Advanced Microsoft Office skills.
  • Positive attitude and willingness to learn.
  • Ability to multi-task and work in a fast-paced environment with deadlines.
  • Willingness to travel on occasion, as necessary, especially during Audit season.

Pay Rate:
$15.00-$28.00
Intern Compensation will depend on office location, academic standing, prior internship experience, and other relevant factors.
Brown Edwards provides equal employment to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training.