How to Become a Computerized Accounting Specialist

Almost all bookkeeping and accounting is done using software today. Even the smallest of businesses can afford a basic accounting software package, and practically anybody can figure out the basics of how to use the software given a little time. Medium and large businesses also use accounting applications, and they typically have several or evens dozens of employees dedicated to keeping track of expenses, taxes, loans, payroll and so forth.

You can learn everything you need to know about accounting and business accounting software applications in six months or less, and have a steady job earning good money working as a computerized accounting specialist, bookkeeping assistant or accounting or auditing clerk before you know it.

Over a million and a half people are employed as accounting specialists or accounting clerks in the U.S. as of 2012, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Given that the BLS projects a 14 percent growth rate for the profession that means an additional 260,000 accounting specialist jobs will be produced through 2020.

Some employers prefer certified bookkeeping, accounting, and auditing clerks. The American Institute of Professional Bookkeepers offers the Certified Bookkeeper designation, which requires at least 2 years of bookkeeping experience, and passing a four-part exam. The National Bookkeepers Association also offers certification program. Earning an NBA certification requires answering at least 40 questions correctly on a 50-question exam.

Four Steps to a Career as an Accounting Assistant

Step 1 -- Evaluate the computerized accounting specialist training programs in your area to see which one best fits your needs. Accounting clerk training programs can be found at most community colleges and vocational schools, and online programs are also available. Accounting specialist training programs last from six months to two years and you most often earn a certificate or an associate degree. The BLS reports that 25% of accounting specialists had an associate or higher degree as of 2009.

Step 2 -- Enroll in and complete the computerized accounting specialist training program you chose. You will take basic math, bookkeeping (including double-entry bookkeeping) and accounting classes, and will get lots of practice using databases and other accounting software applications.

Step 3 -- Apply for accounting clerk or bookkeeping assistant positions in your home town or in a city where you want to work. Make sure your resume and cover letter template is professional and error-free. If you apply online, follow up with as phone call in two or three days to make sure they received your application and express your continued interest in the job.

Step 4-- Complete any required on-the-job training. Every company has slightly different accounting procedures, so an introductory training for new employees is to be expected. Pay attention during the training and make sure to carefully read all training materials.

Accounting clerks earn more than you might think. The BLS reports that accounting and auditing clerks earned a median salary of $35,170 in 2012. Not surprisingly, accounting specialists who worked for the U.S. Postal Service earned the most, with an annual median salary of $59,150, and those who worked for the motion picture and video industry came in second with a median salary of $46,840.

Working as an accounting clerk can be the first step in becoming a Certified Public Accountant. Many young men and women have begun their careers as accounting assistants or auditing clerks and ended up as CPAs or even managing partners of major accounting firms. This, of course, means going back to school and getting an accounting degree, as well as passing the rigorous four-part CPA exam, but it is well worth the time and effort as experienced CPAs can earn upwards of $100,000 annually in some locations.