Bookkeeper
A bookkeeper is responsible for maintaining all records for financial transactions that take place within a business. A bookkeeper reconciles accounts, balances accounts, reconciles data entries, summarizes data in specific ledgers or files, prepares payments or checks, and calculates employee wages. Bookkeepers may also develop reports that show vital statistics, income statements, expenditure reports, or cash receipts.
Basic accounting reports such as accounts receivable, accounts payable, profit and loss statements, and other daily business reports are also completed by the bookkeeper. Some companies utilize the skills of their bookkeeper to calculate, prepare, and send out monthly customer statements, as well as compute and file applicable state, local, and federal level taxes and withholdings. The bookkeeper must keep a historical record of all business accounting and must be fully able to analyze and explain any transaction or entry.
To become a bookkeeper the following skills are required: general accounting knowledge, computer skills (such as ledger software and general office programs), data entry skills, knowledge of SFAS rules, research skills, and the ability to solve problems.
A minimum of an associate’s degree in accounting is recommended. This industry is currently expanding with a projected growth rate of about 12.5%.
The typical average salary of an experienced bookkeeper is about $30,300 per year. Starting salaries pay an average of about $24,000 per year.
