Employment prospects in this occupational group are not much affected by short-term changes in economic conditions, as many accounting functions, such as preparing tax returns and financial reports, must be done in any event. A total of 4,670 new opportunities are projected to become available for financial auditors and accountants from 1998 to 2008. An additional 3,190 openings will result from the replacement of retired workers. Competition for these openings will be strong because of the number of qualified post secondary graduates looking for training positions in this field. Additional competition will come from those moving to the province from other provinces or countries who possess the relevant qualifications.
Accountants are either self-employed or employed in accounting firms or other large companies.
Opinions differ within the financial profession as to the relative size of these proportions. Some believe that a growing proportion of accountants work in accounting departments of firms in various industries. These sources indicate that a growing number of companies are finding it more cost effective to conduct audits internally rather than contracting the services of an independent accounting firm. Other sources believe that a growing proportion of accountants are self-employed. Many of the new opportunities will be for those who can operate their own individual or small accounting practice.