Accounting Technician

Accounting technicians work at all levels of finance and in all industries - from accounts staff to financial controllers.

What are the typical progression routes?

Job description - Accounting Technician

Essentially account technicians assist accountants by collecting, checking and analysing financial information on their behalf. They usually work in a support role within a firm of accountants, or in the accounts or finance department of various industrial and commercial environments. Depending on the route taken, qualification and subsequent work experience, an accounting technician may undertake a range of roles. In a larger company, or if they are employed by a private practice, they can often specialise, working in an audit, tax or corporate finance team.In many large organisations, accounting technicians work along side members of the chartered accountancy bodies. In smaller organisations, they may be the only trained finance staff employed.
 
Activities
  • Assisting with the preparation of accounts
  • Preparing the payroll
  • Dealing with basic bookkeeping
  • Controlling budgets
  • Filling in and submitting company tax returns
 
Competencies
  • Good research and analytical skills
  • Committed and prepared to work and study hard
  • Strong computer skills
  • Communicate and convey information clearly
  • Discreet and tactful when handling confidential information
 
What are the routes in?
Although formal academic qualifications are not a requirement for accounting technicians it is necessary to have a reasonable level of literacy and numeracy. Usual entry is on the job training while taking part-time or distance learning study. Professional accountancy qualifications can be taken to improve earning potential and career development. There are two routes to qualification as an accounting technician, either through the ATT Accounting Qualification or via the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) Certified Accounting Technician Scheme (CAT).In addition to accounting knowledge and skills, employers look for strong written and oral communications, the ability to work in a team, time management and attention to detail.Foundation and Advanced Modern Apprenticeships may be available for young people.
 
The work of an Accounting Technician can be similar to that of an Accountant. For many, working as an Accounting Technician is a practical introduction to accounting. It can provide a stepping stone while studying towards a qualification as a chartered accountant. In a larger company, or if they are employed by a private practice, they can often specialise, working in an audit, tax or corporate finance team. Many employers are prepared to offer some form of support to employees who are keen to update or continue to improve their skills and knowledge. Support from employers can take many forms, such as payments of subscription or college fees and time off for study, either by attending a day release course or for study leave.
 
What is the work like?
Most accounting technicians are office based, although time may be spent out of the office visiting clients. In a larger organisation they usually be working as part of a team, were as in smaller organisations they may be the only person working in the accounts department.Accounting technicians usually work 9am to 5pm, Monday to Friday. They can often work part time.Self-employed accounting technicians often work from home and provide a range of accountancy services to different businesses ranging from advice on budgets, taxation, end of year accounts and consultancy.