How To Get an Entry-Level Accounting Job

In this blog, you will learn: 

• An introduction to entry level accounting jobs.
• What entry-level accounting jobs are out there.
• How to find and apply for the best accountancy jobs.

If you have just finished your accountancy degree, you will most likely be considering starting your career path as an accountant or within a related position. Without prior experience, you will likely have the most success with your job search by applying for entry-level jobs. 

In our latest blog, we delve into how to get an entry-level job in accounting and what you can expect from these positions.

Entry-level accounting jobs - an introduction

When it comes to starting your career path as an accountant, it’s likely that you will have to start at the bottom and work your way up the ranks. Once you have spent some time working in a junior position (building on your skills and experience), you will be on the road to a more senior position. 

Entry-level accounting jobs are positions that require little or no prior work experience. These positions are typically designed for recent graduates or individuals who are new to the field of accounting and are looking to gain experience and develop their skills.

What entry-level accounting jobs are there?

Entry-level accounting jobs typically involve working alongside someone who is more experienced in the role you are aspiring to be proficient in. Below are some examples of the sort of roles you most commonly come across:

• Audits Assistant - Audit Assistants commonly work alongside auditors to ensure any documents are properly coded and mathematically correct. Your duties will consist of comparing real-world documents with figures and postings, checking for transcription errors and ensuring larger discrepancies are made aware to a company’s executives. 
• Accounts Assistant - Accounts Assistants work under the supervision of a senior accountant. The position often involves administrative tasks such as calculating deposits, preparing ledgers and filing records.
• Bookkeeping Clerk - As a Bookkeeping Clerk, you will make entries in a company’s general ledger and work closely with their transactions, credits, and debits. You will create financial statements and cover business transactions such as handling bank deposits and payroll.

How to get an entry-level job in accounting

The unfortunate thing is that even with an accountancy degree behind your back, this may not always be enough to secure you a position. As there will be many other people applying for the same role, you will need to stand out from the crowd to achieve the position.

If you want to know how to get an entry-level job in accounting, there are some things you can do to prepare yourself a little further in the accounting field and make your CV look significantly more impressive. Getting some unpaid experience is one way of proving that you are capable of accountancy practically. You will be able to develop your expertise and get a sense of what working in the accounting field is really like.

Additionally, you can complete another stage of education in the form of a master's degree. This will prove your dedication to a potential employer and evidence to them that you are both eager and knowledgeable enough as a good choice of candidate.

Earning accounting certifications can also help demonstrate your knowledge and skills to potential employers. Consider earning certifications such as Certified Public Accountant (CPA), Certified Management Accountant (CMA), or Certified Internal Auditor (CIA).

The field of accounting is constantly evolving, so it's important to stay up-to-date with the latest developments. Consider taking continuing education courses, attending conferences and workshops, and reading industry publications to stay informed.

Networking is essential in any field, and accounting is no exception. Attend networking events, join professional organisations, and connect with other accounting professionals on social media platforms such as LinkedIn. Networking can help you learn about job opportunities, gain insight into the field, and make valuable connections.

If you are looking for an alternative to an entry-level accounting job, there are also accountancy internships which can introduce you to accountancy with both practical and theoretical experience. 

The convenient thing about internships is that they can potentially lead to a full-time position in the same firm or employment from another firm looking for someone with a good amount of experience and knowledge.

Accountancy jobs

If you’re searching for your next accountancy job, why not take a look at the latest vacancies, or simply upload your CV to be notified when a relevant position becomes available. 

Accountancy recruitment services

As specialist accountancy recruiters, we support practices nationwide with their permanent recruitment needs. 

Whether you’re searching for a tax, audit or payroll specialist, we will help you to find whoever you need to make your practice thrive.

If you’re struggling to fill a vacancy, why not get in touch with Senior Consultant Lauren Fisher on 01772 954200 to see how we can help?

Meet Lauren Bailey

Who is Spencer Clarke Group? 

Established in 2017, we’re an award winning and progressive recruitment agency based in the heart of the North West. Our reputation is built on trust, expertise and an unwavering commitment to exceed expectations. 

In 2025, Spencer Clarke Group was awarded Best Public/Third Sector Recruitment Agency and Best Temporary Recruitment Agency at the Recruiter Awards. In 2024, Spencer Clarke Group was also named Recruitment Agency of the Year.