# Junior Accountant Role: Duties, Requirements, and Career Outlook

## What Is a Junior Accountant?

A Junior Accountant maintains and compiles financial reports to comply with regulations. Responsibilities include managing general ledger accounts, updating financial statements, and preparing reports. Junior Accountants work under supervision, which aids in developing their industry skills and expertise. This entry-level role offers a pathway to senior accounting positions.

### Key Takeaways

*   A junior accountant is an entry-level role responsible for maintaining financial reports, managing accounts, and preparing payroll under supervision.
*   A bachelor's degree in accounting, attention to detail, and proficiency with accounting software are essential prerequisites for becoming a junior accountant.
*   The demand for junior accountants is steady due to the continuous need for accounting services in businesses and government.
*   Junior accountants have the potential to advance their careers by becoming certified public, management, or internal auditors.
*   Employment growth in accounting is projected to grow at a modest rate of 5% annually through 2032.

## Key Responsibilities of a Junior Accountant

A junior accountant's duties and career prospects depend on the candidate's abilities and circumstances.

A junior accountant holds an entry-level position in the accounting department of an [accounting](https://www.investopedia.com/terms/a/accounting.asp) or [auditing](https://www.investopedia.com/terms/a/audit.asp) firm or the government. Junior accountants have an interest in finance. Accountants learn the ins and outs of the industry in which they work because they are privy to all the expenses, revenues, and investments that are involved in a business entity.

The duties and responsibilities of a junior accountant would vary within the organization but would include accounting for all business transactions with journal entries, updating financial statements, preparing monthly financial reports, calculating payroll taxes, and auditing and maintaining [accounts receivable](https://www.investopedia.com/terms/a/accountsreceivable.asp) and [accounts payable](https://www.investopedia.com/terms/a/accountspayable.asp). All of this would be performed under the supervision of the manager, as the junior accountant learns the business of accounting and the intricacies of different client situations.

The median pay for a qualified accountant in 2023 was $79,880, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).  

## Essential Qualifications for a Junior Accountant Role

A bachelor's degree in accounting and attention to detail are prerequisites. Other desirable qualities include math skills, analytical ability, organizational skills, and an interest in finance. A junior accountant uses accounting software, so the ability to use and learn new computer systems is essential.

## Career Prospects and Industry Growth for Junior Accountants

This position suits those who enjoy math and are interested in finance. Junior accountants have above-average earnings potential and access to a wide-ranging clientèle.

The accounting profession is likely to see sustained demand because corporations and small businesses require accounting services on an ongoing basis. If a junior accountant wishes to climb the career ladder, they could become a [certified public accountant (CPA)](https://www.investopedia.com/terms/c/cpa.asp), a [certified management accountant (CMA)](https://www.investopedia.com/terms/c/cma.asp), or a [certified internal auditor (CIA)](https://www.investopedia.com/terms/c/certified-internal-auditor.asp) by undertaking and passing the exam series.

The accounting profession is expected to grow about 5% annually through 2032, per the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Accounting job growth is tied to the overall economy; more accountants are needed in a growing economy. Employment growth in the accounting field is linked to the overall economy. In a growing [economy](https://www.investopedia.com/terms/e/economy.asp), more accountants are required.

## Where Does a Junior Accountant Work?

A junior accountant works at entry level in the accounting department of an accounting or auditing firm or the government.

## What Are the Prerequisites to Become a Junior Accountant?

Someone who wants to be a junior accountant should have:

*   An ability to keep documents well organized
*   An ability to use and learn new computer systems
*   Analytical ability
*   A bachelor’s degree in accounting
*   A high level of attention to detail
*   An interest in finance
*   Mathematical aptitude

## How Much Does an Accountant Make?

According to U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics statistics for 2023, the median pay for a qualified accountant was $79,880.

## The Bottom Line

A junior accountant is an entry-level role in an accounting department, responsible for compiling financial reports and statements while ensuring compliance with government regulations. This position requires a bachelor's degree in accounting, attention to detail, and an affinity for finance and mathematics. Junior accountants are supervised by senior accountants and may advance by obtaining credentials like CPA or CMA.  

> **Article Sources**
>
> 1.  U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. “[Occupational Outlook Handbook: Accountants and Auditors: Summary](https://www.bls.gov/ooh/business-and-financial/accountants-and-auditors.htm).”