Accountant Resume Example & Writing Guide

Professional Summary Example

Detail-oriented Accountant with 7+ years of experience in financial reporting, tax preparation, and audit compliance across multiple industries. Proven track record of reducing month-end close time by 40% and identifying cost-saving opportunities that resulted in $350,000 annual savings. Expertise in GAAP compliance, financial analysis, and implementing automated accounting processes that improve accuracy and efficiency. Advanced proficiency in QuickBooks, SAP, and Excel with strong analytical and problem-solving skills. CPA certified with commitment to maintaining integrity in financial reporting while supporting strategic business objectives.

Professional Summary Example

Detail-oriented Accountant with 7+ years of experience in financial reporting, tax preparation, and audit compliance across multiple industries. Proven track record of reducing month-end close time by 40% and identifying cost-saving opportunities that resulted in $350,000 annual savings. Expertise in GAAP compliance, financial analysis, and implementing automated accounting processes that improve accuracy and efficiency. Advanced proficiency in QuickBooks, SAP, and Excel with strong analytical and problem-solving skills. CPA certified with commitment to maintaining integrity in financial reporting while supporting strategic business objectives.

Professional Summary Example

Detail-oriented Accountant with 7+ years of experience in financial reporting, tax preparation, and audit compliance across multiple industries. Proven track record of reducing month-end close time by 40% and identifying cost-saving opportunities that resulted in $350,000 annual savings. Expertise in GAAP compliance, financial analysis, and implementing automated accounting processes that improve accuracy and efficiency. Advanced proficiency in QuickBooks, SAP, and Excel with strong analytical and problem-solving skills. CPA certified with commitment to maintaining integrity in financial reporting while supporting strategic business objectives.

Key Skills Example

Technical Accounting Skills

Financial Statement Preparation
Month/Year-End Close Procedures
General Ledger Management
Accounts Payable/Receivable
Fixed Asset Accounting
Cash Flow Management
Tax Preparation and Planning
Audit Preparation/Support
Budget Development and Analysis
Variance Analysis
Revenue Recognition
Reconciliation Procedures

Compliance & Regulatory Knowledge

Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP)
International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS)
Sarbanes-Oxley (SOX) Compliance
Internal Controls Implementation
Tax Code Compliance (Federal/State)
Regulatory Reporting
Audit Procedures
Risk Assessment
Corporate Governance
Documentation Standards

Accounting Software & Tools

QuickBooks (Desktop/Online)
SAP/Oracle Financials
Microsoft Dynamics
NetSuite
Advanced Excel (Pivot Tables, VLOOKUP, Macros)
Hyperion
Sage Intacct
Microsoft Power BI
Tableau
ADP/Payroll Systems
Tax Software (UltraTax, Lacerte)
BlackLine

Soft Skills

Analytical Thinking
Attention to Detail
Problem Solving
Critical Thinking
Time Management
Communication Skills
Team Collaboration
Process Improvement
Ethical Decision Making
Client Relationship Management
Deadline Management
Training and Mentoring

Certifications

Certified Public Accountant (CPA)
Certified Management Accountant (CMA)
Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA)
Enrolled Agent (EA)
Certified Internal Auditor (CIA)
Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE)
QuickBooks ProAdvisor Certification

Key Skills Example

Technical Accounting Skills

Financial Statement Preparation
Month/Year-End Close Procedures
General Ledger Management
Accounts Payable/Receivable
Fixed Asset Accounting
Cash Flow Management
Tax Preparation and Planning
Audit Preparation/Support
Budget Development and Analysis
Variance Analysis
Revenue Recognition
Reconciliation Procedures

Compliance & Regulatory Knowledge

Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP)
International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS)
Sarbanes-Oxley (SOX) Compliance
Internal Controls Implementation
Tax Code Compliance (Federal/State)
Regulatory Reporting
Audit Procedures
Risk Assessment
Corporate Governance
Documentation Standards

Accounting Software & Tools

QuickBooks (Desktop/Online)
SAP/Oracle Financials
Microsoft Dynamics
NetSuite
Advanced Excel (Pivot Tables, VLOOKUP, Macros)
Hyperion
Sage Intacct
Microsoft Power BI
Tableau
ADP/Payroll Systems
Tax Software (UltraTax, Lacerte)
BlackLine

Soft Skills

Analytical Thinking
Attention to Detail
Problem Solving
Critical Thinking
Time Management
Communication Skills
Team Collaboration
Process Improvement
Ethical Decision Making
Client Relationship Management
Deadline Management
Training and Mentoring

Certifications

Certified Public Accountant (CPA)
Certified Management Accountant (CMA)
Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA)
Enrolled Agent (EA)
Certified Internal Auditor (CIA)
Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE)
QuickBooks ProAdvisor Certification

Key Skills Example

Technical Accounting Skills

Financial Statement Preparation
Month/Year-End Close Procedures
General Ledger Management
Accounts Payable/Receivable
Fixed Asset Accounting
Cash Flow Management
Tax Preparation and Planning
Audit Preparation/Support
Budget Development and Analysis
Variance Analysis
Revenue Recognition
Reconciliation Procedures

Compliance & Regulatory Knowledge

Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP)
International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS)
Sarbanes-Oxley (SOX) Compliance
Internal Controls Implementation
Tax Code Compliance (Federal/State)
Regulatory Reporting
Audit Procedures
Risk Assessment
Corporate Governance
Documentation Standards

Accounting Software & Tools

QuickBooks (Desktop/Online)
SAP/Oracle Financials
Microsoft Dynamics
NetSuite
Advanced Excel (Pivot Tables, VLOOKUP, Macros)
Hyperion
Sage Intacct
Microsoft Power BI
Tableau
ADP/Payroll Systems
Tax Software (UltraTax, Lacerte)
BlackLine

Soft Skills

Analytical Thinking
Attention to Detail
Problem Solving
Critical Thinking
Time Management
Communication Skills
Team Collaboration
Process Improvement
Ethical Decision Making
Client Relationship Management
Deadline Management
Training and Mentoring

Certifications

Certified Public Accountant (CPA)
Certified Management Accountant (CMA)
Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA)
Enrolled Agent (EA)
Certified Internal Auditor (CIA)
Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE)
QuickBooks ProAdvisor Certification

Work Experience Example

Senior Accountant | Global Manufacturing Inc. | 2019-Present

Led month-end and year-end close processes for $75M division, reducing close time from 12 to 7 days through process optimization and automation
Implemented standardized reconciliation procedures that improved accuracy by 35% and identified $120,000 in accounting discrepancies
Managed preparation of financial statements and regulatory filings in compliance with GAAP and SEC requirements
Developed automated Excel reporting tools that reduced manual data entry by 65% and improved data integrity
Collaborated with cross-functional teams to implement new ERP system, streamlining financial operations and generating $215,000 in annual efficiencies
Supervised team of 3 staff accountants, providing mentorship and developing standardized training protocols that reduced onboarding time by 40%

Staff Accountant | Regional CPA Firm | 2016-2019

Prepared and reviewed tax returns for 120+ individual and 45+ business clients annually, ensuring compliance with federal and state tax regulations
Conducted monthly reconciliations for accounts payable, accounts receivable, and general ledger accounts with 99.8% accuracy
Performed audit procedures for clients across various industries, identifying internal control weaknesses and recommending improvements
Created standardized audit documentation templates that reduced audit preparation time by 30%
Developed client-facing financial reports and dashboards that improved financial transparency and decision-making
Implemented paperless documentation system that reduced storage costs by $25,000 annually and improved document retrieval efficiency

Junior Accountant | Small Business Services LLC | 2014-2016

Managed accounts payable and receivable functions for 35+ small business clients, ensuring timely processing of transactions and collections
Prepared monthly financial statements, including income statements, balance sheets, and cash flow statements
Assisted with quarterly tax preparation and filing, ensuring compliance with reporting deadlines
Reconciled bank statements and credit card accounts with 100% accuracy
Implemented QuickBooks for 12 new clients, providing training and ongoing support
Created Excel-based budget tracking tools that improved client financial planning capabilities

Work Experience Example

Senior Accountant | Global Manufacturing Inc. | 2019-Present

Led month-end and year-end close processes for $75M division, reducing close time from 12 to 7 days through process optimization and automation
Implemented standardized reconciliation procedures that improved accuracy by 35% and identified $120,000 in accounting discrepancies
Managed preparation of financial statements and regulatory filings in compliance with GAAP and SEC requirements
Developed automated Excel reporting tools that reduced manual data entry by 65% and improved data integrity
Collaborated with cross-functional teams to implement new ERP system, streamlining financial operations and generating $215,000 in annual efficiencies
Supervised team of 3 staff accountants, providing mentorship and developing standardized training protocols that reduced onboarding time by 40%

Staff Accountant | Regional CPA Firm | 2016-2019

Prepared and reviewed tax returns for 120+ individual and 45+ business clients annually, ensuring compliance with federal and state tax regulations
Conducted monthly reconciliations for accounts payable, accounts receivable, and general ledger accounts with 99.8% accuracy
Performed audit procedures for clients across various industries, identifying internal control weaknesses and recommending improvements
Created standardized audit documentation templates that reduced audit preparation time by 30%
Developed client-facing financial reports and dashboards that improved financial transparency and decision-making
Implemented paperless documentation system that reduced storage costs by $25,000 annually and improved document retrieval efficiency

Junior Accountant | Small Business Services LLC | 2014-2016

Managed accounts payable and receivable functions for 35+ small business clients, ensuring timely processing of transactions and collections
Prepared monthly financial statements, including income statements, balance sheets, and cash flow statements
Assisted with quarterly tax preparation and filing, ensuring compliance with reporting deadlines
Reconciled bank statements and credit card accounts with 100% accuracy
Implemented QuickBooks for 12 new clients, providing training and ongoing support
Created Excel-based budget tracking tools that improved client financial planning capabilities

Work Experience Example

Senior Accountant | Global Manufacturing Inc. | 2019-Present

Led month-end and year-end close processes for $75M division, reducing close time from 12 to 7 days through process optimization and automation
Implemented standardized reconciliation procedures that improved accuracy by 35% and identified $120,000 in accounting discrepancies
Managed preparation of financial statements and regulatory filings in compliance with GAAP and SEC requirements
Developed automated Excel reporting tools that reduced manual data entry by 65% and improved data integrity
Collaborated with cross-functional teams to implement new ERP system, streamlining financial operations and generating $215,000 in annual efficiencies
Supervised team of 3 staff accountants, providing mentorship and developing standardized training protocols that reduced onboarding time by 40%

Staff Accountant | Regional CPA Firm | 2016-2019

Prepared and reviewed tax returns for 120+ individual and 45+ business clients annually, ensuring compliance with federal and state tax regulations
Conducted monthly reconciliations for accounts payable, accounts receivable, and general ledger accounts with 99.8% accuracy
Performed audit procedures for clients across various industries, identifying internal control weaknesses and recommending improvements
Created standardized audit documentation templates that reduced audit preparation time by 30%
Developed client-facing financial reports and dashboards that improved financial transparency and decision-making
Implemented paperless documentation system that reduced storage costs by $25,000 annually and improved document retrieval efficiency

Junior Accountant | Small Business Services LLC | 2014-2016

Managed accounts payable and receivable functions for 35+ small business clients, ensuring timely processing of transactions and collections
Prepared monthly financial statements, including income statements, balance sheets, and cash flow statements
Assisted with quarterly tax preparation and filing, ensuring compliance with reporting deadlines
Reconciled bank statements and credit card accounts with 100% accuracy
Implemented QuickBooks for 12 new clients, providing training and ongoing support
Created Excel-based budget tracking tools that improved client financial planning capabilities

Education Example

Master of Accounting

University of Illinois | 2014

GPA: 3.85/4.0
Concentration: Tax Accounting
Relevant Coursework: Advanced Financial Accounting, Tax Research and Planning, Audit Theory and Practice, Accounting Information Systems, Financial Statement Analysis
Graduate Research Project: "Impact of Tax Reform on Small Business Compliance Costs"

Bachelor of Science in Business Administration

Michigan State University | 2012

Major: Accounting
Minor: Economics
Dean's List: All Semesters
Accounting Student Association, Treasurer
Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) Program Participant

Education Example

Master of Accounting

University of Illinois | 2014

GPA: 3.85/4.0
Concentration: Tax Accounting
Relevant Coursework: Advanced Financial Accounting, Tax Research and Planning, Audit Theory and Practice, Accounting Information Systems, Financial Statement Analysis
Graduate Research Project: "Impact of Tax Reform on Small Business Compliance Costs"

Bachelor of Science in Business Administration

Michigan State University | 2012

Major: Accounting
Minor: Economics
Dean's List: All Semesters
Accounting Student Association, Treasurer
Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) Program Participant

Education Example

Master of Accounting

University of Illinois | 2014

GPA: 3.85/4.0
Concentration: Tax Accounting
Relevant Coursework: Advanced Financial Accounting, Tax Research and Planning, Audit Theory and Practice, Accounting Information Systems, Financial Statement Analysis
Graduate Research Project: "Impact of Tax Reform on Small Business Compliance Costs"

Bachelor of Science in Business Administration

Michigan State University | 2012

Major: Accounting
Minor: Economics
Dean's List: All Semesters
Accounting Student Association, Treasurer
Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) Program Participant

Resume Writing Tips

Industry-Specific Advice

Showcase Technical Proficiency
- Detail specific accounting software mastery
- Highlight advanced Excel functions you've utilized
- Specify tax preparation experience and software
- Include experience with specific ERP systems
- Note expertise in specialized accounting areas
Quantify Your Impact
- Include percentage improvements in efficiency
- Detail cost savings identified or implemented
- Specify error reduction rates
- Note improvements in close times or processing speeds
- Include numbers of accounts or dollar values managed
Demonstrate Compliance Knowledge
- Show specific regulatory expertise (GAAP, IFRS, SOX)
- Highlight audit support or preparation experience
- Detail internal controls implementation
- Include risk assessment and mitigation experience
- Note industry-specific compliance knowledge

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Using vague descriptions without specific metrics
Focusing on routine duties rather than achievements
Neglecting to showcase software proficiency
Omitting compliance and regulatory knowledge
Using accounting jargon without demonstrating application
Failing to demonstrate attention to detail (errors in resume)
Underemphasizing communication and collaboration skills

Keywords for ATS Optimization

Financial Reporting
GAAP Compliance
General Ledger
Month-End Close
Reconciliation
Accounts Payable/Receivable
Financial Analysis
Audit Preparation
Tax Compliance
Fixed Assets
Financial Statements
Internal Controls
QuickBooks/SAP/Excel
Cost Accounting
Cash Flow Management

Resume Writing Tips

Industry-Specific Advice

Showcase Technical Proficiency
- Detail specific accounting software mastery
- Highlight advanced Excel functions you've utilized
- Specify tax preparation experience and software
- Include experience with specific ERP systems
- Note expertise in specialized accounting areas
Quantify Your Impact
- Include percentage improvements in efficiency
- Detail cost savings identified or implemented
- Specify error reduction rates
- Note improvements in close times or processing speeds
- Include numbers of accounts or dollar values managed
Demonstrate Compliance Knowledge
- Show specific regulatory expertise (GAAP, IFRS, SOX)
- Highlight audit support or preparation experience
- Detail internal controls implementation
- Include risk assessment and mitigation experience
- Note industry-specific compliance knowledge

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Using vague descriptions without specific metrics
Focusing on routine duties rather than achievements
Neglecting to showcase software proficiency
Omitting compliance and regulatory knowledge
Using accounting jargon without demonstrating application
Failing to demonstrate attention to detail (errors in resume)
Underemphasizing communication and collaboration skills

Keywords for ATS Optimization

Financial Reporting
GAAP Compliance
General Ledger
Month-End Close
Reconciliation
Accounts Payable/Receivable
Financial Analysis
Audit Preparation
Tax Compliance
Fixed Assets
Financial Statements
Internal Controls
QuickBooks/SAP/Excel
Cost Accounting
Cash Flow Management

Resume Writing Tips

Industry-Specific Advice

Showcase Technical Proficiency
- Detail specific accounting software mastery
- Highlight advanced Excel functions you've utilized
- Specify tax preparation experience and software
- Include experience with specific ERP systems
- Note expertise in specialized accounting areas
Quantify Your Impact
- Include percentage improvements in efficiency
- Detail cost savings identified or implemented
- Specify error reduction rates
- Note improvements in close times or processing speeds
- Include numbers of accounts or dollar values managed
Demonstrate Compliance Knowledge
- Show specific regulatory expertise (GAAP, IFRS, SOX)
- Highlight audit support or preparation experience
- Detail internal controls implementation
- Include risk assessment and mitigation experience
- Note industry-specific compliance knowledge

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Using vague descriptions without specific metrics
Focusing on routine duties rather than achievements
Neglecting to showcase software proficiency
Omitting compliance and regulatory knowledge
Using accounting jargon without demonstrating application
Failing to demonstrate attention to detail (errors in resume)
Underemphasizing communication and collaboration skills

Keywords for ATS Optimization

Financial Reporting
GAAP Compliance
General Ledger
Month-End Close
Reconciliation
Accounts Payable/Receivable
Financial Analysis
Audit Preparation
Tax Compliance
Fixed Assets
Financial Statements
Internal Controls
QuickBooks/SAP/Excel
Cost Accounting
Cash Flow Management

FAQ

Should I include every accounting software I've used?

Focus on the most relevant software for the position you're applying for. Highlight advanced proficiency in widely-used programs like QuickBooks, SAP, or Excel, and mention specialized software that demonstrates breadth of knowledge. Group less relevant software under a general "Additional Software Experience" bullet point.

How should I showcase my CPA or other certifications?

List your CPA and other accounting certifications prominently near the top of your resume, either in your header or in a dedicated "Certifications" section. Include license numbers and state of certification if applicable, and mention if you're in good standing with continuing education requirements.

Should I include accounting projects I've worked on?

Yes, especially if they demonstrate specialized expertise, leadership, or significant impact. For example, highlight system implementations, audit leadership, or process improvement initiatives with quantifiable results.

How can I demonstrate attention to detail on my resume?

Ensure your resume is error-free, consistently formatted, and precisely aligned. Beyond presentation, include achievement bullets that highlight accuracy rates, error reduction, or reconciliation expertise. Quantify your precision with specific metrics.

How technical should my accounting resume be?

Balance technical accounting terminology with clear demonstrations of business impact. Use industry terminology to demonstrate expertise and pass ATS screening, but make sure achievements are framed in terms of business value (cost savings, efficiency improvements, risk reduction).

How should I address experience with different accounting standards?

Create a dedicated "Standards and Compliance" subsection in your skills area that lists specific standards you're familiar with (GAAP, IFRS, etc.). In your experience bullets, mention specific projects or roles where you applied these standards.

Should I include temporary or contract accounting roles?

Yes, especially if they exposed you to different industries or accounting systems. Group shorter contract roles under a single "Contract Accounting Professional" heading if needed, highlighting diverse industry experience and adaptability.

FAQ

Should I include every accounting software I've used?

Focus on the most relevant software for the position you're applying for. Highlight advanced proficiency in widely-used programs like QuickBooks, SAP, or Excel, and mention specialized software that demonstrates breadth of knowledge. Group less relevant software under a general "Additional Software Experience" bullet point.

How should I showcase my CPA or other certifications?

List your CPA and other accounting certifications prominently near the top of your resume, either in your header or in a dedicated "Certifications" section. Include license numbers and state of certification if applicable, and mention if you're in good standing with continuing education requirements.

Should I include accounting projects I've worked on?

Yes, especially if they demonstrate specialized expertise, leadership, or significant impact. For example, highlight system implementations, audit leadership, or process improvement initiatives with quantifiable results.

How can I demonstrate attention to detail on my resume?

Ensure your resume is error-free, consistently formatted, and precisely aligned. Beyond presentation, include achievement bullets that highlight accuracy rates, error reduction, or reconciliation expertise. Quantify your precision with specific metrics.

How technical should my accounting resume be?

Balance technical accounting terminology with clear demonstrations of business impact. Use industry terminology to demonstrate expertise and pass ATS screening, but make sure achievements are framed in terms of business value (cost savings, efficiency improvements, risk reduction).

How should I address experience with different accounting standards?

Create a dedicated "Standards and Compliance" subsection in your skills area that lists specific standards you're familiar with (GAAP, IFRS, etc.). In your experience bullets, mention specific projects or roles where you applied these standards.

Should I include temporary or contract accounting roles?

Yes, especially if they exposed you to different industries or accounting systems. Group shorter contract roles under a single "Contract Accounting Professional" heading if needed, highlighting diverse industry experience and adaptability.

FAQ

Should I include every accounting software I've used?

Focus on the most relevant software for the position you're applying for. Highlight advanced proficiency in widely-used programs like QuickBooks, SAP, or Excel, and mention specialized software that demonstrates breadth of knowledge. Group less relevant software under a general "Additional Software Experience" bullet point.

How should I showcase my CPA or other certifications?

List your CPA and other accounting certifications prominently near the top of your resume, either in your header or in a dedicated "Certifications" section. Include license numbers and state of certification if applicable, and mention if you're in good standing with continuing education requirements.

Should I include accounting projects I've worked on?

Yes, especially if they demonstrate specialized expertise, leadership, or significant impact. For example, highlight system implementations, audit leadership, or process improvement initiatives with quantifiable results.

How can I demonstrate attention to detail on my resume?

Ensure your resume is error-free, consistently formatted, and precisely aligned. Beyond presentation, include achievement bullets that highlight accuracy rates, error reduction, or reconciliation expertise. Quantify your precision with specific metrics.

How technical should my accounting resume be?

Balance technical accounting terminology with clear demonstrations of business impact. Use industry terminology to demonstrate expertise and pass ATS screening, but make sure achievements are framed in terms of business value (cost savings, efficiency improvements, risk reduction).

How should I address experience with different accounting standards?

Create a dedicated "Standards and Compliance" subsection in your skills area that lists specific standards you're familiar with (GAAP, IFRS, etc.). In your experience bullets, mention specific projects or roles where you applied these standards.

Should I include temporary or contract accounting roles?

Yes, especially if they exposed you to different industries or accounting systems. Group shorter contract roles under a single "Contract Accounting Professional" heading if needed, highlighting diverse industry experience and adaptability.

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