Accountants

What do they do?

Accountants are experts in money matters and keeping accounts. They collect and analyze business records and prepare financial records used by administration to make decisions. They design accounting systems and procedures and help managers in program management. They may prepare income tax forms or advise clients on certain business or financial decisions. Also, they may develop estate plans, accounting systems, or budgets. Some teach or do consulting.

Work Activities

Design and use accounting systems and budgeting systems.
Prepare balance sheets and profit/loss statements.
May direct the work of others performing similar duties.
Prepare various reports and documents such as payroll and sales tax reports, income tax returns, and personal property schedules.
Examine and evaluate data relevant to the financial status of an organization.
Make recommendations to management about improving operations and the financial position of the company.

Skills & Abilities

Skills in using current office technology.
Skills in communication and public relations.
Skills in understanding and interpreting laws.
Skills in analyzing facts and information.
Be able to learn the complex system of bookkeeping used in business.
Knowledge of accounting principles and methods, and management procedures.

Have good numerical and verbal abilities.
Be able to work accurately with detail.
Be able to work within set standards and time limits.
Be able to plan and direct activities.
Be able to make decisions based on experience and data.
Have ability to work with a variety of people and supervise others.

Work settings

Environment: Work indoors in offices and businesses; may require frequent travel.
Hours: Work 40 hours a week; longer hours are possible to meet deadlines.
Employers: Government agencies, private companies or institutions, accounting firms, industries, sales and retail trade companies, corporations, educational institutions, hospitals, banks, insurance companies, public utilities, and self-employed.

Employment & wages

By 2000, it's estimated that 7, 563 accountants and auditors, and cost examiners will be employed in Nebraska. Growth and/or turnover create approximately 190 annual job openings.
It's estimated that 1,083,000 accountants and auditors will be employed in the U.S. by 2005.

Projected growth
Nebraska - Little change or more slowly than average, 12%
National - Faster than average, 13%
Nebraska annual beginning wage: $21,000 to $27,000
Nebraska annual experienced wage: $27,000 to $52,000
National annual average wage: $23,000 to $37,000

Licensing / certification & Training

Licensing is not required, but to work as a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) a person must be licensed by the Board of Public Accountancy. The applicant must have a bachelor's degree, pass a CPA exam, an ethics exam, and have two years of experience.

The minimum educational requirement is a two-year degree in accounting or a closely related field.
Some employers prefer advanced degrees.

Helpful high school subjects

High school subjects that may help prepare individuals for this occupation include English, literature, composition, algebra I and II, geometry, foreign language, biology, chemistry, physics, government, economics, business and consumer law, accounting, and computer applications.

Bibliography

Nebraska Career Information System: Occupations (1996-97 ed.), pp. 35-36.
Complete Guide for Occupational Exploration (1993 ed.), pp. 449-451.
Dictionary of Occupational Titles (4th ed. Revised, 1991), pp. 101-102.
Occupational Outlook Handbook (1996-97 ed.), p. 21.

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