Career Profile
Accountants and auditors help to ensure that businesses of every size and type are run efficiently their public records accurately maintained, and taxes paid properly and on time. In addition to carrying out the fundamental tasks of the occupation—preparing, analyzing, and verifying financial documents in order to provide information to clients—many accountants also offer budget analysis, financial and investment planning, information technology consulting, and limited legal services.
Some accountants specialize in forensic accounting—investigating crimes such as securities fraud and embezzlement, and other complex and possibly criminal financial transactions, including suspected money laundering by organized criminals. Forensic accountants combine their knowledge of accounting and finance with law and investigative techniques to determine whether an activity is illegal. Often forensic accountants work closely with law enforcement personnel and lawyers during investigations and often appear as expert witnesses during trials.
Source: Bureau of Labor and Industry Occupational Outlook Handbook: http://www.bls.gov/oco/ocos001.htm
Accountants are needed by every company and organization. Accountants should be detail-oriented and like working with numbers. Organizational skills, the ability to work both independently and as part of a team, and to be able to comply with time constraints and deadlines are also important qualities. Individuals working in this field should also possess a logical and analytical approach to problem solving. Business communication skills, critical and independent thinking, and a strong commitment to business ethics are also essential requirements.
What’s Hot in Accounting?
Public Accounting
Assurance/Auditing Services
Elder Care Services
Consulting Services
Information Technology Services
Forensic/Investigative Accounting
Environmental Accounting
International Accounting
Tax and Financial Planning
Employers: Public Accounting firms: large, multinational, regional, local and sole practitioners
Corporate Accounting
Budget Analysis
Cost Accounting
Financial Management & Reporting
Internal Auditing
Tax Planning
Employers: Companies of all sizes in all industries
Government
Auditing
Budgeting
Financial Reporting
Financial Management
Research & Analysis
Employers:
Federal government agencies and departments including:
Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)
Internal Revenue Service (IRS)
Department of the Treasury
General Accounting Office
Office of Management and Budget
Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC)
State and local agencies
Non-Profit
Budget Control
Financial Planning
Internal Audit
General Accounting Services
Employers:
Hospitals
Universities and colleges
Religious organizations
Libraries and museums
Political parties
Labor unions
School systems
Social services agencies