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Highest paid entry-level accounting jobs?

January 23, 2023 · 2 min read

The highest-paying accounting jobs tend to be those that require a high level of expertise, experience, and specialized skills. Some examples include:

  • Partner/Director at a public accounting firm: Partners or directors at a public accounting firm are responsible for managing client relationships and overseeing other accountants' work. They typically have many years of experience and have passed the CPA exam. They are also expected to bring in new clients and generate revenue for the firm.

  • Corporate Controller: Corporate controllers are responsible for managing a company's financial reporting and accounting functions. They typically report to the Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and have a high level of expertise in accounting principles and financial reporting standards.

  • Chief Financial Officer (CFO): CFOs are the top financial executive of a company and are responsible for the organization's overall financial management. They typically have a high level of expertise in accounting, finance, and strategic planning and have a background in public accounting or investment banking.

  • Investment Banker: Investment bankers advise companies and governments on financial matters such as raising money by issuing and selling securities. They typically have a high level of expertise in financial analysis and modeling and have a background in finance or accounting.

  • Forensic Accountant: Forensic accountants use accounting, auditing, and investigative skills to assist in legal matters. They typically have a high level of accounting and financial analysis expertise and have experience working in a legal environment.


According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual salary for accountants and auditors in the United States was $71,550 in May 2020. 

Entry-level positions, such as staff accountants or audit associates, typically have a lower salary range, around $40,000 to $60,000 per year.

Experienced accountants and managers can earn salaries ranging from $60,000 to $100,000 per year.

High-level positions, such as controllers, CFOs, or partners in a public accounting firm, can earn salaries of $100,000 or more per year.


Some industries tend to pay higher salaries than others:

  • The finance and insurance industry

  • The federal government

  • The management of companies and enterprises


However, it's important to consider that salary is not the only factor to consider when evaluating a job. Other factors such as work-life balance, job security, and opportunities for advancement should also be taken into account.


by Evgenii Solianikov

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