46+ Accountant Job Description Templates

What is a Job Description?

A job description is a document that specifies the role of a position including duties, responsibilities, and qualifications that a candidate needs to have to accomplish the job. Unlike a resume, a job description is based on an employer’s perspective. 

How to Write an Accountant Job Description

You could be sitting in your office cubicle and suddenly your manager called you. He assigned you to do something beyond your responsibilities as an administrative assistant. How would you react? You might probably not say anything at all; but in your mind, you’re definitely be shouting, “This is not in my job description!” 

According to Workplace Insight, the majority of American workers are unhappy with their jobs. This goes to show that most workers have low job satisfaction. If you don’t set a concrete job description, then it’s not possible that you also have unhappy workers at your company. Here are the most essential parts you need to consider in writing an effective job description for an accountant position.

1. Job Identification

So, what role is vacant in your company? Under what department you need them to work with? Where’s the specific location? These are just a few questions you need to answer before you start writing a job description. Is it for a nurse, teacher, marketing supervisor, accountant? You decide. And start to format a job description specific for the role. 

2. Summary of the Job Position

Job descriptions should never be too long or expect your reader to yawn and lose interest. They’ll probably go straight to the compensation part without reading the whole document. As a result, you’ll be receiving applications from unqualified individuals. It’s important to list down the specific duties and responsibilities of the vacant accounting position. This will help candidates assess if they’re fit for the job. 

3. Competencies

This is the core of your job description document. It outlines the specific skills, knowledge, training, or capabilities that an applicant needs to possess to be considered in the accounting position. Education and work experience are what this part should contain in order to attract a qualified candidate. 

4. Work Environment

Do you want to work in an environment where you can’t be yourself? If you’re desperate for a job, it doesn’t matter. However, your job satisfaction will be at risk. Offer the candidates a working environment that will help them decide if they fit for that accounting role. Work culture is an important part of the decision-making process of job seekers. 

5. Benefits and Compensation

For a job seeker, this is probably the most essential element when considering to apply for a job. It’s understandable. You want to work because you want to earn money and buy your needs. When writing this part, be straightforward. Avoid giving false hope. However, if you don’t want to disappoint the readers, you can pair the salary with the benefits of working in your accounting firm. These can include health insurance, dental insurance, or maybe flexible working hours. Write whatever perks your company has.