Accounting technician

Job description

An accounting technician supports the work of accountants by undertaking a wide range of accountancy, financial and taxation tasks. They work for both private and public sector organisations, carrying out accountancy tasks ranging from organising payroll and book-keeping to preparing a variety of reports in positions such as credit control officer or account clerk; all with a view to ensuring financial information is collated, checked and analysed efficiently and to standard. Many accountancy technicians also offer independent accountancy services alongside their support work. Accountancy technicians have strong numerical, organisational and interpersonal skills and can have flexible work hours, particularly if working on a self-employed basis

Work activities

• Using software packages to record and retrieve information, particularly spreadsheets.
• Preparing accounts, budgets, reports and financial statements for clients.
• Auditing internal and external accounts and making end of year calculations.
• Undertaking administrative tasks such as administering payroll and arranging payments for invoices.
• Ensuring the organisation’s compliance with current taxation legislation.
• Monitoring company/department financial transactions and controlling budgets.
• Basic book-keeping.

Work conditions

Travel: not usually a feature, but self-employed technicians can expect to make trips to visit clients.
Working hours: generally 9 to 5 but can be flexible. At times some longer hours can be required.
Location: across the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland. Overseas work is an option.

Entry requirements

The common entry route into the profession is to obtain an accounting technician qualification. Professional bodies such as Accounting Technicians Ireland provide qualifications designed specifically for the profession. ACCA Chartered Accounting Technician (CAT) is a professional accountancy qualification. Relevant work experience alongside a qualification will aid applications.