Accounting Clerk Job Description Summary
An Accounting Clerk is an entry-level finance professional responsible for performing basic accounting tasks, processing financial data, and maintaining accurate records within an organization's accounting department.
Accounting clerks work in various office settings including corporate offices, small businesses, accounting firms, and government agencies. They support the accounting team by handling data entry, processing transactions, and organizing financial documentation under the supervision of senior accountants.
Data Entry
Financial data input
Record Keeping
Documentation
Transaction Processing
Invoices & payments
Accounting Clerk Duties and Responsibilities
Accounting clerks handle various financial tasks to support the accounting department:
Recording financial transactions and data entry
Enter financial data into accounting software and spreadsheets accurately and in a timely manner.
Processing invoices and payments
Handle accounts payable and receivable by processing invoices, verifying documentation, and processing payments.
Managing accounts payable and receivable
Track outstanding invoices, monitor payment due dates, and maintain records of all financial transactions.
Maintaining financial records and documentation
Organize and file financial documents, receipts, and reports for easy retrieval and audit purposes.
Assisting with basic accounting tasks and reports
Support senior accountants with basic reports, reconciliations, and other accounting tasks as assigned.
What Does an Accounting Clerk Do Daily
A typical day for an accounting clerk involves various data and documentation tasks:
Data Entry and Processing
- Entering financial data into accounting systems
- Processing invoices and expense reports
- Updating records and ledgers
Documentation and Review
- Reviewing invoices and receipts for accuracy
- Verifying supporting documentation
- Filing and organizing financial documents
Communication
- Communicating with team members and vendors
- Responding to routine accounting questions
- Coordinating with other departments
Accounting Clerk Job Requirements
Accounting clerk positions have basic education and skill requirements:
Education & Knowledge
- High school diploma or equivalent required
- Associate's degree in accounting or related field preferred
- Basic accounting principles: Understanding of bookkeeping concepts
- On-the-job training: Provided for software and procedures
Technical Requirements
- Familiarity with accounting software: QuickBooks, Sage, etc.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Excel: Spreadsheet skills essential
- Attention to accuracy: Precision in data entry
- Basic math skills: For calculations and verification
Accounting Clerk Skills
Successful accounting clerks combine numerical ability with organizational skills:
Numerical Skills
Strong mathematical ability and comfort with numbers and financial data.
Attention to Detail
Meticulous approach to ensure accuracy in all financial entries.
Organization
Ability to maintain orderly files and documentation systems.
Time Management
Meet deadlines and handle multiple tasks efficiently.
Communication Skills
Clear communication with colleagues and vendors.
Basic Computer Skills
Proficiency with accounting software and office applications.
Accounting Clerk Tools and Software
Accounting clerks work with various software and systems:
Accounting Software
Spreadsheet Tools
Data Entry Systems
Financial Record Management
Types of Accounting Clerk Roles
Accounting clerks can specialize in different areas of accounting:
Accounts Payable Clerk
Specializes in processing vendor invoices, scheduling payments, and maintaining accounts payable records.
Accounts Receivable Clerk
Handles customer invoicing, tracks payments received, and follows up on outstanding balances.
Payroll Clerk
Processes employee payroll, maintains attendance records, and handles payroll-related documentation.
General Accounting Clerk
Handles a variety of accounting tasks including data entry, reconciliation support, and general bookkeeping.
Accounting Clerk Salary
Accounting clerk compensation varies based on experience, location, and industry:
Entry-Level Hourly
$15-18/hr
Average Annual
$35,000-45,000
Experienced
$45,000-55,000
Factors Affecting Pay
Experience
Entry-level positions start lower, with increases as experience and skills grow.
Location
Urban areas with higher costs of living typically offer higher wages than rural locations.
Industry
Finance, healthcare, and technology sectors often pay higher than non-profit or government positions.
Accounting Clerk Job Description Template
Pick from 5 ready-to-use templates and swap instantly from top-right controls:
General Accounting Clerk Template
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Sample Accounting Clerk Job Description
Short, practical example in clear real-world format:
Accounting Clerk - Small Business
We are looking for an organized Accounting Clerk to join our small business team. You will be responsible for data entry, processing invoices, and maintaining financial records.
Key Responsibilities:
- Enter financial data into accounting software accurately
- Process vendor invoices and customer payments
- Reconcile bank statements monthly
- Maintain organized files of financial documents
- Assist with basic accounting reports as needed
- Communicate with vendors regarding payment questions
Requirements:
- High school diploma or equivalent required
- Basic understanding of accounting principles
- Proficiency in Microsoft Excel
- Experience with QuickBooks or similar software
- Strong attention to detail
What We Offer:
- $16-18 per hour depending on experience
- Monday-Friday business hours
- Paid time off after 90 days
- On-the-job training provided
Accounting Clerk Job Description for Resume
How to describe your accounting clerk experience effectively on a resume:
What to Include
- Specific duties: Data entry, AP/AR processing, reconciliation
- Software proficiency: QuickBooks, Excel, accounting systems
- Industries: Any previous finance or business experience
- Accuracy metrics: Error-free entries, clean audits
Achievements to Highlight
- Processed X invoices per week with 100% accuracy
- Implemented new filing system that improved efficiency
- Zero discrepancies in monthly reconciliations
- Promoted from data entry to accounting clerk role
How to Write an Accounting Clerk Job Description
For employers, here's how to create effective accounting clerk job descriptions:
Define tasks clearly
List specific duties like data entry, invoice processing, and record maintenance.
Include required skills and tools
Specify software proficiency, accuracy requirements, and any certifications needed.
Mention expectations and work setup
Clarify schedule, work environment, reporting structure, and growth opportunities.
How to Become an Accounting Clerk
Path to starting a career as an accounting clerk:
Complete Basic Education
Obtain a high school diploma or equivalent. Consider an associate's degree in accounting for better opportunities.
Learn Accounting Software
Become familiar with popular accounting software like QuickBooks through courses or self-study.
Gain Entry-Level Experience
Start in data entry or administrative roles to build foundational accounting experience.
Develop Skills and Advance
Build accuracy and efficiency to advance to senior clerk roles or pursue further certifications.
Where to Find Accounting Clerk Jobs
Multiple platforms and methods to find accounting clerk positions:
Corporate Offices
- • Small businesses
- • Large corporations
- • Healthcare facilities
- • Manufacturing companies
Accounting Firms
- • CPA firms
- • Bookkeeping services
- • Tax preparation firms
- • Financial services companies
Job Boards & Networks
- • Indeed and Glassdoor
- • LinkedIn Jobs
- • Local job postings
- • Company websites
Conclusion
Quick recap of accounting clerk duties: Accounting clerks are essential entry-level finance professionals who perform data entry, process invoices, maintain financial records, and support the accounting department with various tasks to ensure accurate financial operations.
Importance of clear job descriptions: A well-written job description should clearly define specific tasks and responsibilities, specify required education and software skills, mention accuracy expectations and work environment, outline schedule and compensation, and provide realistic expectations for this entry-level role.