Accountants and Auditors

O*NET 13-2011.00 · SOC 13-2011

Projected Growth
+6%
2024–2034
Median Salary
$84k
BLS OEWS, May 2025
Annual Openings
131k
positions/year
Education Level
Zone 4
Considerable preparation needed (bachelor's degree)

What You'd Actually Do

  • Prepare and review financial statements and reports
  • Conduct internal and external audits for compliance
  • Ensure accurate tax filing and regulatory compliance
  • Analyze financial data and identify discrepancies
  • Advise management on cost reduction and budgeting

Education & How to Get In

🎯
Job Zone 4
Considerable preparation needed (bachelor's degree)

A bachelor's degree is the standard entry point for Accountants and Auditors roles. Related majors and internship experience during college significantly improve your chances. Many employers also value relevant certifications or project portfolios alongside the degree.

Get Started Learning

Ready to start building skills for a career as a Accountants and Auditors? These platforms offer courses you can start today — many with free trials or financial aid.

Coursera
University-backed courses and certificates
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Udemy
Affordable self-paced courses from $12.99
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Skillshare
Creative and professional skill classes
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LinkedIn Learning
Professional development with certificates
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Work Environment

Primary Setting

Structured — offices, data centers, or remote

Work Style

Independent — focused deep work with periodic team check-ins

A Day in the Life

While every role varies by employer and specialization, a typical day as a Accountants and Auditors involves a mix of core responsibilities:

MorningPrepare and review financial statements and reports
MiddayConduct internal and external audits for compliance
AfternoonEnsure accurate tax filing and regulatory compliance

Personality Fit (RIASEC)

Conventional (Organizers)7.0
Enterprising (Persuaders)3.9
Investigative (Thinkers)3.6
Social (Helpers)2.1
Realistic (Doers)1.1
Artistic (Creators)1.1

Who Thrives as Accountant?

Based on the interests and work style this role actually demands, these personality types tend to fit it best. Salary and growth tell you if a career is worth entering — personality fit tells you whether you'll still want it in five years.

ISTJThe InspectorESTJThe ExecutiveENTJThe CommanderINTJThe Strategist

Not sure which you are? Take the free 5-minute quiz →

See Open Accountants and Auditors Roles

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Is Accountants and Auditors right for you?

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