Accountant

A Certified Public Accountant, or CPA, is responsible for assisting business owners and individuals in maintaining and improving their financial health and reporting procedures. Their duties include meeting with clients to discuss their current business and financial needs, preparing financial statements and tax forms.

CPAs perform a variety of accounting duties, including:

• Balance financial records and check for inaccuracies

• Audit individual accounts on a random or scheduled basis, as needed

• Check for major financial issues

• Ensure projects stay on budget

• Publish audited financial statements

• Work with executives and CEOs to establish budgets

• Make suggestions regarding budgets and other financial decisions

• Assist or prepare external company audits

CPAs need a high degree of technical skill in accounting. Other important skills and qualifications for CPAs include:

• Ability to work independently and as part of a team

• Ability to explain complex accounting data in a simple way

• Ability to analyze complex systems

• Problem-solving skills

• Verbal and written communication skills

• Ability to work under pressure and meet tight deadlines

• Knowledge of accounting and financial software

• Willingness to stay up to date with latest accounting methods and technology

• Excellent attention to detail