Introduction
An Accounting Intern is a graduate or a student of Accounting who works with Accountants. This is to gain more practical knowledge of the profession. It is also an opportunity to put the theories learned in school into practice.
Most professional courses require internship training after the University or college program. This is to allow graduates again necessary practical knowledge. A condition that is necessary before diving fully into the profession.
Accounting is one of such courses.
In this case, however, the Accounting Intern can be a graduate or an undergraduate. Interns of Accounting are exposed to learn more about the practical aspect of the job. They work under the supervision of practicing Accountants and learn on the job.
To find out more about what they do, sit back and keep reading.
Who is an Accounting Intern?
Accounting interns work in the Accounts department of an organization or an actual Accounting firm. They generally work with anything figures
In most organizations, he or she is employed as an entry-level staff. Their Job description revolves around assisting Accountants. They do so in balancing accounts, research, and the like.
In the United States, Accounting Interns can work in several places. Most especially accounting firms like banks. They can also work in the accounts department of an institution, like a hospital.
Responsibilities of an Accounting Intern
The duties of Accounting Interns revolve around assisting their boss. They work under supervision always because they are under a form of training. Some of the things they do are:
- Preparing financial reports periodically.
- Assisting in balancing of accounts.
- Tracking of unsuccessful payments of taxes and also salaries.
- Observing and also monitoring the accounts of the firm.
- Ensuring adequate documentation and also computer entry at all times.
- Working with the boss to develop record formats.
- Working with Accountants to develop systems that are easily accessible.
- Helping to ensure that all staff get their financial statements on time.
- Preparing accounts statements.
- Working with necessary computer software to make the job easier.
- Ensuring that financial records are always updated.
- Ensuring that financial records are always accurate.
Qualifications for practice as an Accounting Intern
To practice as an Accounting Intern in the United States, the following are necessary:
- One must have attained a Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, or
- You must be a student of Accounting, or
- One must be looking to get a Master’s degree in Accounting.
In addition, skills employers look out for include:
- Good knowledge of Mathematics.
- Good knowledge of Financial Accounting.
- Completion of introductory or preliminary courses in accounting.
- Good communication skills and also good documentation skills
- High level of speed and accuracy.
- Passion for the profession.
- Expertise in Microsoft Office.
- Confidence and also tegrity.
- Ability to pay attention to details.
- Organization skills.
Job Opportunities
An accounting Intern can find relevance in the following places:
- Banks
- Financial Institutions and also accounting firms.
- Private Account Organizations.
- Hospitals
Work Environment
Typically, an Accounting Intern works in an office setting, together with the Accountant. This is so regardless of the place of work. Their job usually requires a computer system and a lot of documentation.
Accounting Interns work full time like Accountants. So they work for up to 40 hours a week, exclusive of weekends and public holidays. In some settings, they will be allowed to work for lesser hours. This may be done for those who are still students. The job schedule is usually a minimum of one year of training.
Salary
In the United States, Accounting Interns earn a basic salary of $14.27 per hour. This amounts to approximately $30,000 in a year. As an entry-level staff and a staff on training, this is considerable.
Career Path
Accounting Interns are expected to continue their education. They are also to seek employment as permanent staff after their internship training.
After attaining a Bachelor’s degree, one can proceed to get a Master’s.
In the profession, an Accountant can be promoted to the level of Head Accountant. One can also become a company’s Chief Financial Officer (CFO), with years of experience.
Conclusion
An Accounting Intern has given himself further training, to learn more about the profession. This is necessary before launching out fully. It equips one with the necessary skills and experience needed.
