Accountant
Examine, analyze, and interpret accounting records to prepare financial statements, give advice, or audit and evaluate statements prepared by others. Install or advise on systems of recording costs or other financial and budgetary data.
Educational Requirements
for Accountants and Auditors
The typical entry level education for this occupation is a bachelor’s degree.
Knowledge
Examples of the knowledge needed for success in this occupation is listed below, in order of importance.
- Economics and Accounting: Knowledge of economic and accounting principles and practices, the financial markets, banking and the analysis and reporting of financial data.
- Mathematics: Knowledge of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, statistics, and their applications.
- English Language: Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition, and grammar.
- Clerical: Knowledge of administrative and clerical procedures and systems such as word processing, managing files and records, stenography and transcription, designing forms, and other office procedures and terminology.
- Computers and Electronics: Knowledge of circuit boards, processors, chips, electronic equipment, and computer hardware and software, including applications and programming.
Skills
Examples of the skills needed for success in this occupation are listed below, in order of importance.
- Mathematics: Using math to solve problems.
- Active Listening: Listening to others, not interrupting, and asking good questions.
- Reading Comprehension: Reading work-related information.
- Writing: Writing things for co-workers or customers.
- Critical Thinking: Thinking about the pros and cons of different ways to solve a problem.
Abilities
Examples of the abilities needed for success in this occupation are listed below, in order of importance.
- Mathematical Reasoning: Choosing the right type of math to solve a problem.
- Written Comprehension: Reading and understanding what is written.
- Oral Comprehension: Listening and understanding what people say.
- Number Facility: Adding, subtracting, multiplying, or dividing.
- Near Vision: Seeing details up close.
Detailed Work Activities
Examples of the detailed work activities involved with this occupation are listed below, in order of importance.
- Advise others on business or operational matters.
- Collect evidence for legal proceedings.
- Oversee business processes.
- Investigate legal issues.
- Examine financial records or processes.