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Reit Accounting Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Master's Degree in Business Taxation preferred. • JD and/or CPA preferred. • Eight years of related experience with at least 5 years in a public accounting firm. • Thorough knowledge of REIT ...

... to perform fund accounting for a variety of real estate funds for commercial real estate ... Performing REIT testing and managing distributions * Maintaining capital accounts * Preparing ...

Senior Accountant

Irvine, CA

$79K - $99K/yr

The Company has elected to be taxed as a real estate investment trust, or REIT, for U.S. federal income tax purposes Senior Accountant - Irvine, CA Seeking a Senior Accountant who will be responsible ...

Showing results 21-40

Reit Accounting information

See California salary details

$10

$35

$94

How much do reit accounting jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for reit accounting in California is $35.61, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.87 and $36.06 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Reit Accounting vs Real Estate Analyst?

AspectReit AccountingReal Estate Analyst
Required CredentialsAccounting degree, CPA often preferredFinance, real estate, or related degree; certifications like CFA beneficial
Work EnvironmentAccounting departments, corporate officesInvestment firms, real estate companies, financial institutions
Employer & Industry UsageReal estate investment trusts, property management firmsReal estate investment firms, development companies
Primary FocusFinancial reporting, compliance, and accounting for REITsMarket analysis, property valuation, investment assessment

Reit Accounting professionals focus on financial reporting and compliance within REITs, requiring accounting credentials. In contrast, Real Estate Analysts analyze market trends and property values, often with finance backgrounds. Both roles are vital in the real estate industry but serve different functions.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in REIT accounting, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in REIT accounting often navigate complex regulatory requirements and frequent changes in tax laws, which can be challenging to stay updated on. Additionally, tracking diverse property assets and managing detailed financial reporting for investors requires strong attention to detail and robust organizational skills. Working closely with property managers, legal teams, and auditors is essential to ensure compliance and accurate reporting. Leveraging specialized accounting software and participating in ongoing training can help address these challenges and maintain high standards of accuracy.

What is REIT accounting?

REIT accounting refers to the specialized accounting practices used by Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs). It involves managing financial records, preparing financial statements, and ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements specific to REITs, such as income and asset tests mandated by the IRS. REIT accountants track rental income, property expenses, acquisitions, and dispositions, and often handle complex transactions related to real estate investments. The goal is to maintain transparency for investors and adhere to tax rules that allow REITs to avoid corporate income tax if they meet certain qualifications.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a REIT accountant, and why are they important?

To thrive as a REIT Accountant, you need a strong background in accounting principles, financial reporting, and a bachelor's degree in accounting or finance, often accompanied by a CPA certification. Familiarity with property management software, real estate accounting systems like Yardi or MRI, and advanced Excel skills are typically required. Attention to detail, analytical thinking, and effective communication are soft skills that distinguish top performers in this role. These abilities ensure accurate financial management, regulatory compliance, and clear reporting essential for the success of real estate investment trusts.
Infographic showing various Reit Accounting job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 96% Full Time, and 4% Temporary. Highlights an 88% In-person, 8% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $74,079 per year, or $35.6 per hour.

Director of Accounting

SmartStop Self Storage

Mission Viejo, CA • On-site

$140K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 24 days ago


Job description

Think Outside the Box!

Join a Company That’s Changing the Game!
At SmartStop® Self Storage, we believe in embracing change, driving innovation, and elevating every team member’s journey.

About SmartStop Self Storage

SmartStop® Self Storage (NYSE: SMA) is one of the largest self-storage operators in North America and a publicly traded real estate investment trust. Headquartered in Ladera Ranch, California, SmartStop owns or manages more than 460 self-storage properties across 35 U.S. states, Washington, D.C., and Canada, comprising over 270,000 units and more than 35 million rentable square feet.

Our fully integrated team of more than 1,000 self-storage professionals is dedicated to delivering an exceptional customer experience and driving long-term value for our customers, investors, and communities.

SmartStop’s commitment to service excellence and workplace culture has been recognized with multiple industry honors, including being named to Newsweek’s Best Customer Service Award (2021, 2023 and 2024), earning the Reputation 800 Award (2022-2023), and being recognized as a Top Workplace in Orange County (2022-2024), an award based entirely on employee feedback regarding our culture, leadership, and values.

We’re growing fast — and we want you to grow with us.

Salary: starting at $140,000 depending on experience + annual discretionary bonus

*The above represents the expected starting salary for this position. Ultimately, in determining your pay, we will consider your experience and other job-related factors.

Location: 100% on-site at our Ladera Ranch, CA headquarters.

Director of Accounting Job Summary

Reporting to the Controller, the Director of Accounting is responsible for overseeing all accounting operations, financial reporting, and internal controls across the real estate portfolio.

Essential Job Functions and Responsibilities

  • Leads, mentors, and develops accounting professionals, fostering a culture of accountability and growth
  • Optimizes and maintains accounting systems and software
  • Identifies and implements process improvements to increase efficiency and scalability
  • Oversees the month-end, quarter-end, and year-end close processes to ensure timely and accurate financial statements
  • Prepares and reviews consolidated financial reports across multiple self-storage properties and entities
  • Maintains compliance with GAAP and applicable real estate accounting standards
  • Manages and reviews balance sheet reconciliations, journal entries, and intercompany transactions
  • Monitors tenant billing, collections, and delinquency processes
  • Reviews and approves vendor payments, property-level expenses, and capital expenditures
  • Assists with the budgeting process in collaboration with Operations, Acquisitions, and Property Management teams
  • Assists with variance analyses, and KPI reporting for portfolio performance
  • Designs, implements, and monitors internal controls to safeguard company assets and ensure financial integrity
  • Performs other related duties as assigned.

Qualifications Needed

  • Bachelor's degree in accounting, finance, or related field required
  • 5+ years of progressive accounting experience, with at least 2 years in a leadership role
  • Experience in real estate/REIT, self-storage, or property management accounting strongly preferred
  • Proficiency in property management or accounting software
  • Advanced Excel skills; ability to build and maintain complex financial models
  • In-depth knowledge of accounting principles and standards, corporate taxation, internal controls and cash management
  • Exceptional math and analytical skills
  • Excellent communication skills, with the ability to discuss accounting concepts to all levels within the organization
  • Attentiveness to details
  • Excellent leadership skills
  • Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment
  • High level of integrity and professional ethics

Benefits

  • Competitive Salary
  • Health insurance including medical, dental and vision
  • Life and Disability Insurances
  • Paid Time Off
  • Generous Holiday Schedule
  • 401(k) matching with no waiting period
  • Employee assistance program
  • Referral program
  • Great growth potential

Diversity

SmartStop® Self Storage, is committed to diversity, equity and inclusion. We believe in fostering an environment of inclusion and seek contributors from all backgrounds to join our dynamic team.

Lead Together!