An entry-level accountant is responsible for maintaining financial records. He works an office position with typical office hours. Every industry has a need for accountants and as such, the industry is expected to grow by up to 10 percent over the next decade.

Job Duties

Accountants are financial record-keepers. Entry-level accountants are responsible for updating and maintaining financial records, Entry-evel accountants analyze financial information and use that information to prepare reports. They maintain and determine records of assets, liabilities, profits and loss and tax liabilities. Accountants make numerous computations each day and must be comfortable using computers to calculate and record data.

Education

An entry-level accountant must have completed high school or the equivalent. However, having some college education or vocational schooling is becoming increasingly important and an associate degree in business or accounting is required for some positions. Rarely, a bachelor's degree is required to obtain an entry-level accounting position. An entry-level accountant must also possess a working knowledge of QuickBooks.

Earnings

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, in May 2008, the median annual wages of entry level accountants was $32,510. According to Payscale.com, the salary range for entry level accountants is $31,461 - $44,540.

Work Environment

Entry-level accountants work in an office environment. They primarily sit at a desk in front of a computer for extended periods of time while reviewing and inputting data. Entry-level accountants typically work Monday through Friday, 9-to-5 type hours, however, especially during tax time, they may be required to work longer hours or weekends. Entry-level accountants can experience eye and muscle strain, backaches, headaches and repetitive motion injuries from using computers on a daily basis.

Job Outlook

Employment of entry level accountants is projected, by the Bureau of Labor Statistics, to grow by 10 percent during the 2008–18 decade, which is average growth for all occupations. The demand and need for entry level accountants is expected to increase due to a growing population and economy resulting in more financial transactions. However, the need will be limited based on technological improvements in software, making it easier to record and track financial information.