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Operational Accountant Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Senior Accountant 16819263

Washington, DC · On-site

$83K - $105K/yr

This role will focus on core operational accounting functions and will support the monthly close, account reconciliations, financial reporting, and continuous process improvement efforts. This ...

Senior Accountant 16819261

Arlington, VA · On-site

$85K - $107K/yr

This role will focus on core operational accounting functions and will support the monthly close, account reconciliations, financial reporting, and continuous process improvement efforts. This ...

Senior Accountant 16819262

Fairfax, VA · On-site

$75K - $95K/yr

This role will focus on core operational accounting functions and will support the monthly close, account reconciliations, financial reporting, and continuous process improvement efforts. This ...

Senior Accountant 16819264

Bethesda, MD · On-site

$79K - $99K/yr

This role will focus on core operational accounting functions and will support the monthly close, account reconciliations, financial reporting, and continuous process improvement efforts. This ...

Senior Accountant

MD · On-site

$80K - $100K/yr

The Senior Accountant will also support month-end and year-end close activities, operational ... accounting processes, and special accounting projects. Over the next year, this person will have ...

Staff Accountant 16819271

Arlington, VA · On-site

$63K - $83K/yr

This role will focus on core operational accounting functions and provide exposure to general ledger activity, reconciliations, close support, and financial reporting processes. This is an excellent ...

Staff Accountant 16819276

Bethesda, MD · On-site

$58K - $77K/yr

This role will focus on core operational accounting functions and provide exposure to general ledger activity, reconciliations, close support, and financial reporting processes. This is an excellent ...

Staff Accountant 16819275

Washington, DC · On-site

$62K - $82K/yr

This role will focus on core operational accounting functions and provide exposure to general ledger activity, reconciliations, close support, and financial reporting processes. This is an excellent ...

Staff Accountant 16819274

Fairfax, VA · On-site

$56K - $74K/yr

This role will focus on core operational accounting functions and provide exposure to general ledger activity, reconciliations, close support, and financial reporting processes. This is an excellent ...

Senior Accountant - Nonprofit

Washington, DC · Hybrid

$83K - $105K/yr

Senior Accountant - Finance Operations Salary: $70,000 - $90,000 + Bonus Location: Washington, DC area preferred Office Situation: Primarily Remote Why This Opportunity Stands Out: This is one of ...

Manage day-to-day accounting operations including Accounts Payable and Accounts Receivable * Maintain proper reconciliation of all G/L accounts (prepaid expenses, fixed assets, depreciation records ...

Staff Accountant

Ashburn, VA · On-site

$70K - $90K/yr

Manage day-to-day accounting operations including Accounts Payable and Accounts Receivable * Maintain proper reconciliation of all G/L accounts (prepaid expenses, fixed assets, depreciation records ...

Staff Accountant

Ashburn, VA · Remote

$70K - $90K/yr

Manage day-to-day accounting operations including Accounts Payable and Accounts Receivable * Maintain proper reconciliation of all G/L accounts (prepaid expenses, fixed assets, depreciation records ...

Property Accountant

Gaithersburg, MD · On-site +1

$66K - $87K/yr

This role offers a mix of month-end close, financial reporting, and operational accounting, with visibility into property performance and business decision-making. Key Responsibilities * Manage full ...

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Senior Accountant

Leesburg, VA · On-site

$90K - $95K/yr

Key Responsibilities Internal & Corporate Accounting (LBO / Operational) * Manage internal corporate accounting activities, including LBO-related accounting support * Process vendor invoices ...

Staff Accountant

Fairfax, VA · On-site

$28 - $29/hr

This individual will support core accounting functions, financial reporting activities, and operational accounting processes while collaborating closely with internal departments to ensure accuracy ...

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Showing results 1-20

Operational Accountant information

See Washington salary details

$37.9K

$79K

$109.9K

How much do operational accountant jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for operational accountant in Washington is $78,972.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $68,000.00 and $90,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by operational accountants and how can they be addressed?

Operational accountants often face challenges such as managing tight month-end deadlines, reconciling large volumes of transactional data, and coordinating with multiple departments to ensure accuracy. Proactive communication and strong organizational skills are vital for overcoming these challenges. Leveraging accounting software to automate routine tasks and developing standardized processes can also help streamline workflows, reduce errors, and improve efficiency.

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

To thrive as an Operational Accountant, you need a solid understanding of accounting principles, financial analysis, and a relevant degree such as a bachelor's in accounting or finance. Familiarity with enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems like SAP or Oracle, and relevant certifications such as CPA or ACCA, are often required. Strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and effective communication help you collaborate with cross-functional teams and ensure financial accuracy. These skills and qualifications are crucial for maintaining compliance, optimizing business processes, and supporting effective financial decision-making.

Can you make $100,000 as an accountant?

Operational accountants can earn $100,000 or more annually, especially with experience, advanced certifications like CPA, and working in high-demand industries or senior roles. Salaries vary based on location, company size, and individual skills, with some accountants reaching six-figure incomes through specialization and career advancement.

What does an operational accountant do?

An operational accountant manages financial processes related to daily business operations, including budgeting, financial reporting, and internal controls. They analyze financial data, ensure compliance with regulations, and often use accounting software like QuickBooks or SAP to support decision-making and operational efficiency.

What is the difference between Operational Accountant vs Bookkeeper?

AspectOperational AccountantBookkeeper
CredentialsTypically requires a degree in accounting or finance; certifications like CPA are commonOften requires a high school diploma; some may have bookkeeping certifications
Work EnvironmentWorks in corporate finance departments, handling complex financial dataWorks in small businesses or accounting firms, focusing on recording transactions
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in larger organizations across various industriesCommon in small businesses, retail, and service industries
Primary ResponsibilitiesFinancial analysis, reporting, and ensuring complianceRecording daily transactions, maintaining ledgers

The main difference between an Operational Accountant and a Bookkeeper lies in their responsibilities and required qualifications. Operational Accountants handle complex financial analysis and reporting, often requiring a degree and certifications, while Bookkeepers focus on recording daily transactions, typically with less formal education. Both roles are essential in managing a company's finances but serve different functions within the financial department.

What is the highest paid type of accountant?

Financial managers and controllers, who often hold advanced certifications like CPA or CMA, tend to be the highest paid accountants. Specialized roles such as forensic accountants or tax directors also command higher salaries due to their expertise and responsibilities.

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

Operational accountants typically earn salaries well below $500,000 annually, with top executives or specialized roles in large corporations reaching higher compensation levels. Achieving a $500,000 salary usually requires advanced positions such as CFO or senior financial executive, significant experience, and often additional certifications like CPA or CMA. Entry- and mid-level operational accountants generally do not reach this income level.
What cities in Washington are hiring for Operational Accountant jobs? Cities in Washington with the most Operational Accountant job openings:
Infographic showing various Operational Accountant job openings in Washington as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 8% Nights. Highlights an 88% Physical, 7% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $78,972 per year, or $38 per hour.
Senior Accountant 16819263

Senior Accountant 16819263

Cherry Bekaert

Washington, DC • On-site

$83K - $105K/yr

Full-time

Posted 25 days ago


Cherry Bekaert rating

8.7

Company rating: 8.7 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

4th of 22 rated bookkeepers and accountants


Job description

Senior Accountant
Location: Hybrid - Washington, DC
Employment Type: Full-Time
Overview
Cherry Bekaert Recruiting & Staffing is partnered with a well-established organization in the Washington, DC area seeking a Senior Accountant to join its accounting team. This role will focus on core operational accounting functions and will support the monthly close, account reconciliations, financial reporting, and continuous process improvement efforts.
This position is ideal for an experienced accounting professional who enjoys hands-on ownership, strong team collaboration, and a stable environment with growth potential.
Key Responsibilities
  • Prepare and review journal entries, reconciliations, and supporting schedules
  • Support month-end and year-end close processes
  • Maintain general ledger accuracy and assist with financial statement preparation
  • Analyze balance sheet and income statement activity and investigate variances
  • Assist with audit support, internal controls, and process improvements
  • Partner with cross-functional teams to ensure accurate financial reporting
  • Support operational accounting activities and special projects as needed
Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in Accounting or Finance
  • 3+ years of progressive accounting experience
  • Strong understanding of core operational accounting functions required
  • CPA preferred
  • Experience with large ERP systems strongly preferred, including NetSuite, Sage Intacct, Unanet, Costpoint, or similar platforms
  • Strong Excel skills and attention to detail required
  • Ability to work independently and in a collaborative team setting
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