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Public Accounting Entry Level Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The LaSalle Group

Accounting Manager

Rolling Meadows, IL · On-site

$100K - $120K/yr

Bachelor's degree in Accounting or Finance; CPA preferred * 5 or more years in public accounting or ... entry-level positions to the C-suite. With units specializing in Accounting and Finance ...

Frost PLLC

Tax Staff

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$65K/yr

Frost, PLLC is the largest CPA firm based in Arkansas, and we have been in business for 50 years ... Accounting career, accounting entry level, entry level accounting, Tax, Tax Staff, Tax Associate ...

Robert Half

Audit Sr. - Public

Columbia, SC · On-site

$70K - $100K/yr

We are looking for an accomplished Audit Senior to join a public accounting team in South Carolina ... Oversee entry-level team members by assigning work, reviewing output, and providing ongoing ...

Frost PLLC

Tax Staff

Raleigh, NC · Hybrid

$56K - $75K/yr

Frost, PLLC is the largest CPA firm based in Arkansas, and we have been in business for 50 years ... Accounting career, accounting entry level, entry level accounting, Tax, Tax Staff, Tax Associate ...

W3Global Inc.

Staff Accountant

Richmond, KY

$53K - $60K/yr

This role is ideal for an entry-level accounting professional or recent graduate looking to build a career in public accounting while working closely with senior accountants and partners. Key ...

Ascend Partner Firms

CAAS Staff Accountant

Tyler, TX

... large CPA firm to help them grow. Ascend provides access to growth capital, robust talent ... This is an entry-level position designed for accounting professionals who are eager to learn, build ...

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Public Accounting Entry Level information

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How much do public accounting entry level jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for public accounting entry level in the United States is $20.32, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.31 and $22.12 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are public accounting entry level jobs?

Public accounting entry level jobs are positions for recent graduates or individuals new to the accounting profession, typically at firms that provide audit, tax, and consulting services to a variety of clients. These roles often include titles such as staff accountant, audit associate, or tax associate. Entry level employees in public accounting are responsible for tasks like preparing financial statements, assisting with audits, and completing tax returns under the supervision of senior staff. These positions provide valuable on-the-job training and are often the first step toward earning a CPA license.

What is the difference between Public Accounting Entry Level vs Bookkeeper?

AspectPublic Accounting Entry LevelBookkeeper
Required CredentialsTypically a bachelor's degree in accounting or related field; CPA eligibility often beneficialHigh school diploma or associate's degree; certifications like QuickBooks ProAdvisor are common
Work EnvironmentPublic accounting firms, audit and tax departmentsSmall to medium-sized businesses, accounting firms, or freelance
Employer & Industry UsageUsed by accounting firms, corporations, and government agenciesUsed by small businesses, non-profits, and freelance clients

Public Accounting Entry Level roles focus on auditing, tax preparation, and financial consulting within firms, often requiring a degree and CPA path. Bookkeepers handle day-to-day financial record-keeping, usually with less formal education and certifications. While both roles involve financial data, Public Accounting Entry Level positions are more analytical and client-facing, whereas Bookkeeping is more administrative and transactional.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Public Accounting Entry Level professional, and why are they important?

To thrive in an entry-level public accounting role, you need a bachelor’s degree in accounting or finance, strong analytical abilities, and a solid understanding of GAAP. Familiarity with accounting software such as QuickBooks or Excel, and progress toward or completion of the CPA exam, are typically expected. Attention to detail, effective communication, and time management are valuable soft skills for collaborating with clients and managing multiple deadlines. These skills and qualifications are essential to ensure accurate financial reporting, compliance with regulations, and effective client service in a demanding environment.

What are some common challenges faced by entry-level professionals in public accounting, and how can they be overcome?

Entry-level professionals in public accounting often face challenges such as managing multiple client deadlines, adapting to rapidly changing workloads during busy seasons, and mastering complex accounting software. Building strong organizational skills and seeking guidance from experienced team members can help address these hurdles. Additionally, taking the initiative to ask questions and participate in team meetings fosters learning and supports smoother integration into the firm’s workflow.
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What job categories do people searching Public Accounting Entry Level jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Public Accounting Entry Level jobs are:
Public Accounting Entry Level jobs near you
Infographic showing various Public Accounting Entry Level job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 8% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,262 per year, or $20.3 per hour.

2027 Entry Level Staff Accountant (Upstate New York)

Bonadio

Buffalo, NY

$60K/yr

Full-time

Posted 18 days ago

Job description

2027 Entry Level Staff Accountant (Upstate New York)

Ready to Launch Your Public Accounting Career in 2027?

You've put in the work, CPA eligibility is on the horizon, and now you're looking for the right place to start strong. At The Bonadio Group we don't just hire entrylevel accountants. We develop future leaders in public accounting.

Why Start Your Career at TBG?

Because we understand what it takes to help top talent thrive. From day one, you'll have mentorship, support, and meaningful opportunities to make an impact. And once you're here, you'll see why people stay. Our peoplefirst culture, awardwinning training, and exceptional benefits speak for themselves.

Assurance Opportunities

(To start June or October 2027, or January 2028 based on graduation with CPA eligibility)

Work on audits across industries including notforprofit, government, construction, healthcare, real estate, education, and more. You'll gain the handson experience you've been waiting for.

What You'll Be Doing

  • Preparing financial statements based on your team's needs
  • Using modern accounting technology to deliver highquality results
  • Communicating proactively with team members and managers
  • Managing timelines and budgets while meeting client expectations
  • Collaborating in a learningfocused environment
  • Staying current on professional standards and firm policies
  • Building strong client relationships from the start

Tax Opportunities

(To Start October 2027 or January 2028 based on graduation with CPA eligibility)

What You'll Be Doing

  • Developing familiarity with professional standards by learning key pronouncements issued by the FASB, AICPA, GAO, and GASB.
  • Assisting with tax return preparation by supporting the preparation of federal, state, and local tax returns.
  • Identifying accounting issues and applying appropriate accounting principles.
  • Building strong, professional client relationships
  • Communicating effectively by responding to supervisor and client questions and keeping team leaders informed of project status.
  • Following qualitycontrol procedures by adhering to firm practicemanagement guidelines, technology tools, and qualitycontrol systems.

Small Business Advisory (SBA) Opportunities

(To Start August or October 2027, or January 2028 based on graduation with CPA eligibility)

What You'll Be Doing

  • Preparing and/or reviewing complex business and individual tax returns and perform financial statement compilations and reviews
  • Handling client special projects by preparing and/or reviewing budget analyses, cashflow projections, and other clientspecific advisory projects
  • Developing strong client relationships by building effective working relationships to deliver innovative accounting, tax planning, consulting, and compliance solutions.
  • Identifying and researching tax and accounting issues, develop practical resolutions, and prepare clear written conclusions
  • Managing schedules and deadlines
  • Supporting staff development by assisting in training, developing, and mentoring staff and interns

What You Bring To TBG

  • Minimum of a bachelor's or master's degree in accounting and CPA eligibility
  • Less than one year of experience - perfect for new or soontobe grads
  • Progress toward CPA certification
  • A techsavvy mindset with confidence using Microsoft Office and accounting software
  • Strong communication skills and professional presence
  • A passion for delivering exceptional client service

What's In It For You

  • Accelerated growth and a clear path forward
  • A firm where your ideas matter and your potential is recognized
  • A peoplefirst culture that supports your wellbeing
  • Training, mentorship, and development programs designed for your success
  • The chance to do meaningful work from day one

Locations: Albany, Buffalo, Rochester, Syracuse

Compensation: The salary for this role is $60,500 a year.

Hours of Operation:

  • Our office hours are Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m.
  • Our summer hours are Monday through Thursday from 8:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m. and on Friday from 8:00 a.m. until 12:00 p.m.

At The Bonadio Group, we believe that an inclusive work environment allows all of our people to achieve their greatest potential and the greatest results for our clients and communities. Bonadio is committed to the principle of equal treatment and opportunity for all people. The Firm is committed to fostering and managing diversity in the workplace as an integral part of its practice and service to clients. The Firm values the rich variety of perspectives and experiences offered by those of different backgrounds. This diversity strengthens our institution and enables it to better respond to our clients' needs in an increasingly global profession.

In the fast-changing accounting industry, The Bonadio Group is always on the cutting edge of growth and innovation. With our great mentoring and training programs, you'll be exposed to diversity of work, and the ability to tackle more interesting issues. You'll be working with great people and great clients where you can truly make a difference. Apply online, get on board, and grow with us. You'll be glad you did!

All communications from The Bonadio Group regarding recruitment and hiring will come from an @bonadio.com email address and our process includes a discussion with our Talent Management team. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact us immediately at (800) 487-7624 or careers@bonadio.com.

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