What Is an Account Clerk and How to Become One

An account clerk performs basic accounting tasks such as invoice creation and daily financial reports. In this career, you may perform other accounting tasks in support of accounting department supervisors. Your responsibilities may extend to handling accounts payable duties and recording transactions, sales, and returns. Your duties may also involve data entry and record creation for financial information in a company computer system. As an accounting clerk, you work under the supervision of a head accountant in an accounting department.

Qualifications for an accounting clerk vary depending on the job requirements. In some companies, the primary qualification is the ability to use bookkeeping software. Other companies may seek applicants with an aptitude for math and an associate’s degree in accounting or bookkeeping. Companies with large accounting departments may look for job applicants who have previous accounting experience in a smaller company. As an accounting clerk, you handle sensitive financial information, so attention to detail is vital.

Accounting clerks need an understanding of accounting principles and the ability to use accounting software. Some companies provide on-the-job training, but a certificate or degree can help you qualify for promotions or capitalize on work experience to get a better-paying position with a different company. You might also consider improving your career prospects by getting certified in a specific type of accounting software. You may be able to progress to the position of an accountant if you obtain an accounting degree and pass requisite certification exams.

An accounting clerk needs to excel at organization and pay attention to detail. Skills with math and numbers also prove beneficial as you travel on this career path. Educational qualifications vary, but every company seeks applicants who are familiar with accounting and bookkeeping software. If you lack a postsecondary degree, you can demonstrate your skills by getting certified in QuickBooks or a similar accounting software suite. Accuracy in accounting computations and data entry are also critical to your success in this career.

Job Summary

We are currently seeking an experienced Account Clerk to join our busy department. This role is responsible for providing bookkeeping support to accounting supervisors and other managers within the department. Daily tasks including entering data into daily worksheets to the general ledger system and ensuring files are complete and maintained as needed. The Account Clerk also handles accounts payable duties, and assists accounting personnel. The ideal candidate will have a proven track record of attention to detail, comfort with numbers, and a passion for strict adherence to process.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Perform bookkeeping and clerical functions
• Research, track, and resolve accounting problems
• Issue checks for accounts payable, and place checks in envelopes and mail out
• Record charges and refunds in the accounting software
• Support accounting personnel as necessary
• Record business transactions, input type vouchers, invoices, checks, account statements, reports, and other records
• Provide front desk customer service to customers who visit or call into the office
• Utilize computer systems to run databases, pay bills and order supplies
• Work with adding machines, calculators, databases and bank accounts
• Match invoices to work orders; reconcile and document
• Compile and sort invoices and checks, file and tally deposits, process bills for payment, and arrange and organize deposits
• Contact individuals with delinquent accounts and negotiate timely repayment or termination of services
• Ensure customers accept payments or refunds

Requirements and Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED Certificate
• Accounting coursework and two years of responsible office experience
• Experience in Accounts Payable, Accounts Receivable a plus
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Knowledge of the principles of bookkeeping and accounting procedures
• Good knowledge of the English language, spelling, and mathematics
• Familiarity with AS/400 computer entry and of computer programs such as Microsoft Access, Excel, and Exchange