We used the latest data and insights to identify the highest paying accounting jobs so that you can learn and earn more.
Are you curious to know what the highest-paying accounting jobs are? This page is devoted to helping you find the best job for your career and lifestyle.
Accounting has tons of different jobs and careers. You can work as an auditor or accountant at a large corporation or start your own tax preparation business. No matter what side of the industry you end up on, it will be lucrative with the right education and experience.
In this article, we’re going to talk about some of the highest-paying accounting jobs available today.
Table of Contents
#10. Staff Accountant
How much do they get paid?
- Source: Payscale
- Low Range: $42,000 per year
- High Range: $66,000 per year
- Median Pay: $53,280 per year
What do they do?
Staff accountants are responsible for maintaining and analyzing financial records. They ensure that the company’s books are accurate, which is an important part of ensuring that a business can operate smoothly.Â
These accountants also track employee performance to ensure they do their jobs well and maximize profits.
What degrees and skills are usually required?
Staff accountants typically need a bachelor’s degree in accounting and some experience working in a similar position. Some employers may also accept candidates with degrees in economics or finance, but they should have strong analytical and organizational skills.
Who’s hiring for this job?
A wide range of companies employs staff accountants. The best places to find jobs include accounting firms, government agencies, and nonprofit organizations.
What is the best way to get this job?
Like all accounting jobs, staff accountants usually need a bachelor’s degree in accounting. One of the best ways to get this job is by earning an accounting degree from a reputable university and then gaining experience working in an accounting office.
Some companies may hire entry-level candidates without experience, but they will expect them to complete training programs before being allowed to do any actual work.
What should you expect as a staff accountant?
#9. Credit Supervisor
How much do they get paid?
- Source: ZipRecruiter
- Low Range: $36,500 per year
- High Range: $80,500 per year
- Median Pay: $60,310 per year
What do they do?
Credit supervisors are responsible for managing the credit operations of their organization. They ensure that all loans and other financial transactions are processed on time, in accordance with company policy.Â
These professionals also manage an organization’s relationship with lenders and investors to ensure compliance with regulations.
What degrees and skills are usually required?
A bachelor’s degree in accounting or business is usually a prerequisite for this position. Depending on the organization and size, a master’s degree may also be required. You also need experience in accounting and financial management. A CPA certification is a plus but not required.
Who’s hiring for this job?
Large companies and financial institutions are the most likely to have this position. The job is also available in government agencies and nonprofit organizations.
What is the best way to get this job?
As this is not entry-level, you should have experience before applying. You can get that experience by working as a credit analyst. Once you have the necessary qualifications, look for jobs with large companies and financial institutions in your area.
You can find job openings on websites that list accounting jobs. You should highlight relevant experience, skills, and education on your resume. You can also improve your chances of getting hired by networking with others in the industry.
Should you become a credit supervisor?
#8. Financial Analyst
How much do they get paid?
- Source: Payscale
- Low Range: $49,000 per year
- High Range: $84,000 per year
- Median Pay: $63,437 per year
What do they do?
A financial analyst is a person who analyzes and interprets financial data. They are responsible for helping organizations determine the best course of action to take to maximize profits, minimize losses, and protect their assets.
What degrees and skills are usually required?
Most financial analysts have a finance or accounting degree, but some positions may require a master’s degree. You should also understand business principles and have strong analytical skills.
Who’s hiring for this job?
The most common employers are investment firms, financial services businesses, accounting, and insurance companies. Government agencies also employ financial analysts, as do large corporations.
What is the best way to get this job?
If you want a job as a financial analyst, it’s best to start with an accounting or finance degree. This will give you a solid foundation in finance and accounting principles.Â
You can also gain experience by volunteering in the field of accounting. This will help you land an entry-level position in financial analysis.
Should you become a financial analyst?
#7. Certified Management Accountant
How much do they get paid?
- Source: Comparably
- Low Range: $13,979 per year
- High Range: $379, 665 per year
- Median Pay: $68,284 per year
What do they do?
In the accounting world, there are many job titles for those with a certain education and experience.Â
While some may find this overwhelming, it can also be rewarding to know that many career paths exist. The Certified Management Accountant (CMA) designation is one such title.
A CMA has broad financial and management accounting skills, making them excellent candidates for leadership positions in organizations where they will oversee the financial and operational aspects of an organization’s activities.Â
Because they possess such a diverse set of skills, CMAs are able to work across industries ranging from healthcare to manufacturing to professional services firms.
What degrees and skills are usually required?
CMA candidates must have at least a bachelor’s degree in accounting or a related field. Most people who work in this field have experience in financial or management accounting.Â
Other than their education, CMAs must have strong interpersonal skills and be able to communicate clearly with others.
Who’s hiring for this job?
Certified management accountants work in the finance department of an accounting firm, or a bank. They may also work in an accounting department of a government agency or a non-profit organization.
What is the best way to get this job?
One of the best ways to get any job is to build your skills and network. You can get started by getting an accounting degree, which will give you a solid foundation in the field.Â
After that, consider taking the CMA exam. This will show prospective employers you have the knowledge and experience they’re looking for in a candidate.
How do you become a certified management accountant?
#6. Tax Accountant
How much do they get paid?
- Source: Glassdoor
- Low Range: $52,000 per year
- High Range: $98,000 per year
- Median Pay: $70,748 per year
What do they do?
Tax accountants prepare and analyze tax returns, ensuring their clients pay the right taxes. They may also help clients file for deductions, claim credits, and find ways to reduce their tax bills.
What degrees and skills are usually required?
These professionals must have an in-depth understanding of tax laws and regulations. Therefore, tax accountants typically need a bachelor’s degree in accounting and several years of professional experience.Â
Some employers may also require candidates to have a CPA (certified public accountant) license.
Who’s hiring for this job?
Tax accountants work in accounting firms, government agencies, and corporations. They may also find positions with consulting firms or financial institutions.
What is the best way to get this job?
You should focus on earning a bachelor’s degree in accounting and getting professional experience in the field. You can also earn a master’s degree in accounting to increase your chances of getting hired.Â
As most positions require certified candidates, consider taking the CPA exam to get your license. Once you have a job, work towards becoming one of the international tax managers. This is a top position in the field of tax accounting.
What’s it like to be a tax accountant?
#5. Personal Financial Advisor
How much do they get paid?
- Source: Payscale
- Low Range: $44,000 per year
- High Range: $157,000 per year
- Median Pay: $75,234 per year
What do they do?
Personal financial advisors help clients manage their finances by providing advice on investments, savings plans, retirement planning, and insurance.Â
They may offer tax preparation services, estate planning advice, and help with financial planning during life events like marriage or divorce.
What degrees and skills are usually required?
Since this field doesn’t require a specific degree, you can choose a degree program that interests you. The most common degrees are in accounting or finance. You may also consider education courses in personal finance, investing, financial health, and business management skills.
Who’s hiring for this job?
Many companies need financial advisors, including banks, insurance companies, mutual funds, and investment firms. You might find employment with a financial planning firm, an accounting firm, or a brokerage house.
What is the best way to get this job?
Once you have earned a degree in a related field, you can become certified as a financial planner. This will help you find employment and build your client base. You can also work as an accountant or financial analyst before branching out into financial planning.
What’s it like to be a personal financial advisor?
#4. Chartered Accountant
How much do they get paid?
- Source: Payscale
- Low Range: $45,000 per year
- High Range: $111,000 per year
- Median Pay: $82,424 per year
What do they do?
A chartered accountant (CA) is a professional who has met the education and experience requirements set by an institute of chartered accountants.Â
These professionals provide audit services to businesses, including financial reports, taxation advice, and consulting services.
What degrees and skills are usually required?
Most chartered accountants have a bachelor’s degree in business, accounting, or finance. Some employers also prefer candidates with additional education, such as an MBA or CPA certification.Â
Chartered accountants must pass several exams to earn their credentials and maintain them by continuing their education.
Who’s hiring for this job?
Chartered accountants work in a variety of industries, including accounting firms, banks, and government agencies.Â
Large companies often hire them to perform audits or offer consulting services. Candidates with experience in business management or leadership roles are desirable for these positions.
What is the best way to get this job?
A bachelor’s degree in accounting is the starting point for most jobs in this field. A CPA designation, which requires a certain number of years of experience and additional exams, will also help you advance your career.Â
You’ll need strong communication skills and attention to detail to succeed as an accountant.
Once you’ve established your career and gained experience, you can look for opportunities to advance and become a manager or even a chief financial officer.
Should you become a chartered accountant?
#3. Bank Branch Manager
How much do they get paid?
- Source: Glassdoor
- Low Range: $58,000 per year
- High Range: $143,000 per year
- Median Pay: $90,250 per year
What do they do?
A bank branch manager is responsible for managing an entire branch of a bank. They oversee the day-to-day operations of the branch and ensure it is profitable. This includes hiring employees, providing them with training, and handling customer complaints.
In addition to the tasks mentioned above, a bank branch manager will also handle any problems that arise during business hours. If there is an issue with customers or staff, they’ll step in to resolve the problem.
What degrees and skills are usually required?
Bank branch managers typically have a bachelor’s degree in accounting, business administration, or finance. They also often receive on-the-job training to run a bank branch.Â
These accountants are expected to possess strong communication and leadership skills, as well as a knowledge of accounting and banking procedures.
Who’s hiring for this job?
Banks and credit unions are the most common employers of bank branch managers. They hire managers to oversee all aspects of their operations, from hiring and training staff to monitoring inventory levels.
The national average salary for these accounting experts depends largely on your employer, expertise, and experience.
What is the best way to get this job?
The first step is to get a bachelor’s degree in accounting or finance, which will provide you with the knowledge needed to work as a bank branch manager. Next, gain some experience by working in the finance industry as an accountant or within a bank branch.
You can also earn a master’s degree in management accounting or a related field. This will give you more opportunities for advancement. Once you have some experience and education under your belt, apply for bank manager positions at local banks or credit unions.
What’s it like to be a bank Branch manager?
#2. Investment Banker
How much do they get paid?
- Source: Payscale
- Low Range: $54,000 per year
- High Range: $209,000 per year
- Median Pay: $102,253 per year
What do they do?
Investment bankers help companies raise capital by selling their stock to the public and other investors. They also advise companies on mergers, acquisitions, and strategic alliances. These bankers evaluate the financial risks before settling on an investment opportunity.
What degrees and skills are usually required?
Investment bankers need at least a bachelor’s degree, although many have an MBA. The most common degrees are in accounting, finance, economics, and business administration. They also need experience in financial analysis and management skills.
Who’s hiring for this job?
Investment banks are the largest employers of investment bankers. Other companies can also hire investment bankers, such as venture capital firms and private equity firms.
What is the best way to get this job?
You can get this job by pursuing an undergraduate or postgraduate degree in finance, accounting, or business administration. You should also gain experience working for a financial institution like a bank or insurance company.
What’s it like to be an investment banker?
#1. Financial Controller
How much do they get paid?
- Source: Glassdoor
- Low Range: $87,000 per year
- High Range: $222,000 per year
- Median Pay: $137,647 per year
What do they do?
A financial controller is a type of accountant who oversees an organization’s finances. They are responsible for managing budgets, forecasting revenue, and managing risk. These accounting professionals also provide accounting advice to those in senior management positions.
What degrees and skills are usually required?
Most financial controllers have a bachelor’s degree in accounting or finance. However, some organizations may require a master’s degree in these areas.Â
In addition, financial controllers should have experience in the accounting field and a strong knowledge of financial principles. They should also have strong communication skills and be able to work well in a team environment.
Who’s hiring for this job?
The following industries and organizations hire financial controllers:
- Accounting firms
- Financial institutions, such as banks and credit unions
- Retail businesses
What is the best way to get this job?
After finishing your degree, you should begin applying for jobs. You can find job postings on websites like Monster and LinkedIn or through the company’s website. You may also want to network with others in your field so they can refer you when positions open up at their companies.
If you have enough experience in accounting, it may be possible to land a well-paying position at an organization that hires financial controllers.
Should you become a financial controller?
Conclusion
Accounting is one of those careers that everyone seems to have an opinion on. Some people think it’s the best job ever, while others are convinced that accounting is the most boring career possible.
However, no matter what your stance on accounting may be, one thing is for sure: there are plenty of jobs available in this field—and they pay well!
Accounting jobs can vary from entry-level to high-paying positions requiring a master’s degree and years of experience in the field. But whatever job you’re looking for, you’ll find it in accounting.
