Accountants and Auditors

Job Zone

Job Zone Four: Considerable Preparation Needed

Most of these occupations require a four-year bachelor's degree, but some do not.

Job Zones group occupations into one of five categories based on the education, experience, and training typically needed to perform them.

Tasks

Specific duties and responsibilities regularly performed in this occupation.

Prepare, examine, or analyze accounting records, financial statements, or other financial reports to assess accuracy, completeness, and conformance to reporting and procedural standards.90
Process invoices for payment.89
Review accounts for discrepancies and reconcile differences.87
Compute taxes owed and prepare tax returns, ensuring compliance with payment, reporting, or other tax requirements.82
Prepare adjusting journal entries.82
Inspect account books and accounting systems for efficiency, effectiveness, and use of accepted accounting procedures to record transactions.80
Prepare detailed reports on audit findings.77
Prepare, analyze, or verify annual reports, financial statements, and other records, using accepted accounting and statistical procedures to assess financial condition and facilitate financial planning.77
Collect and analyze data to detect deficient controls, duplicated effort, extravagance, fraud, or non-compliance with laws, regulations, and management policies.75
Review data about material assets, net worth, liabilities, capital stock, surplus, income, or expenditures.74
Report to management regarding the finances of establishment.73
Evaluate taxpayer finances to determine tax liability, using knowledge of interest and discount rates, annuities, valuation of stocks and bonds, and amortization valuation of depletable assets.72

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Supervise auditing of establishments, and determine scope of investigation required.72
Develop, implement, modify, and document recordkeeping and accounting systems, making use of current computer technology.72
Confer with company officials about financial and regulatory matters.70
Review taxpayer accounts, and conduct audits on-site, by correspondence, or by summoning taxpayer to office.70
Establish tables of accounts and assign entries to proper accounts.69
Inspect cash on hand, notes receivable and payable, negotiable securities, and canceled checks to confirm records are accurate.68
Examine and evaluate financial and information systems, recommending controls to ensure system reliability and data integrity.67
Examine records and interview workers to ensure recording of transactions and compliance with laws and regulations.66
Analyze business operations, trends, costs, revenues, financial commitments, and obligations to project future revenues and expenses or to provide advice.66
Develop, maintain, or analyze budgets, preparing periodic reports that compare budgeted costs to actual costs.66
Represent clients before taxing authorities and provide support during litigation involving financial issues.66
Direct activities of personnel engaged in filing, recording, compiling, and transmitting financial records.62
Audit payroll and personnel records to determine unemployment insurance premiums, workers' compensation coverage, liabilities, and compliance with tax laws.60
Examine whether the organization's objectives are reflected in its management activities, and whether employees understand the objectives.59
Conduct pre-implementation audits to determine if systems and programs under development will work as planned.55
Advise clients in areas such as compensation, employee health care benefits, the design of accounting or data processing systems, or long-range tax or estate plans.55
Examine inventory to verify journal and ledger entries.55
Report to management about asset utilization and audit results, and recommend changes in operations and financial activities.54

Skills

Developed capacities that facilitate learning or the more rapid acquisition of knowledge.

Reading Comprehension72
Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work-related documents.
Active Listening63
Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.
Complex Problem Solving63
Identifying complex problems and reviewing related information to develop and evaluate options and implement solutions.
Critical Thinking63
Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions, or approaches to problems.
Judgment and Decision Making63
Considering the relative costs and benefits of potential actions to choose the most appropriate one.
Writing63
Communicating effectively in writing as appropriate for the needs of the audience.
Mathematics60
Using mathematics to solve problems.
Speaking60
Talking to others to convey information effectively.
Active Learning56
Understanding the implications of new information for both current and future problem-solving and decision-making.
Monitoring56
Monitoring/Assessing performance of yourself, other individuals, or organizations to make improvements or take corrective action.
Social Perceptiveness56
Being aware of others' reactions and understanding why they react as they do.
Persuasion53
Persuading others to change their minds or behavior.

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Service Orientation53
Actively looking for ways to help people.
Time Management53
Managing one's own time and the time of others.
Coordination50
Adjusting actions in relation to others' actions.
Instructing47
Teaching others how to do something.
Management of Financial Resources47
Determining how money will be spent to get the work done, and accounting for these expenditures.
Negotiation47
Bringing others together and trying to reconcile differences.
Learning Strategies44
Selecting and using training/instructional methods and procedures appropriate for the situation when learning or teaching new things.
Systems Evaluation44
Identifying measures or indicators of system performance and the actions needed to improve or correct performance, relative to the goals of the system.
Systems Analysis41
Determining how a system should work and how changes in conditions, operations, and the environment will affect outcomes.
Management of Personnel Resources38
Motivating, developing, and directing people as they work, identifying the best people for the job.
Management of Material Resources28
Obtaining and seeing to the appropriate use of equipment, facilities, and materials needed to do certain work.
Programming25
Writing computer programs for various purposes.
Operations Monitoring22
Watching gauges, dials, or other indicators to make sure a machine is working properly.
Technology Design16
Generating or adapting equipment and technology to serve user needs.
Operations Analysis13
Analyzing needs and product requirements to create a design.
Quality Control Analysis10
Conducting tests and inspections of products, services, or processes to evaluate quality or performance.
Science6
Using scientific rules and methods to solve problems.
Equipment Maintenance0
Performing routine maintenance on equipment and determining when and what kind of maintenance is needed.
Equipment Selection0
Determining the kind of tools and equipment needed to do a job.
Installation0
Installing equipment, machines, wiring, or programs to meet specifications.
Operation and Control0
Controlling operations of equipment or systems.
Repairing0
Repairing machines or systems using the needed tools.
Troubleshooting0
Determining causes of operating errors and deciding what to do about it.

Knowledge

Organized sets of principles and facts that apply in general domains.

Economics and Accounting85
Knowledge of economic and accounting principles and practices, the financial markets, banking, and the analysis and reporting of financial data.
English Language66
Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the meaning and spelling of words, and rules of composition and grammar.
Mathematics62
Knowledge of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, statistics, and their applications.
Law and Government59
Knowledge of laws, legal codes, court procedures, precedents, government regulations, executive orders, agency rules, and the democratic political process.
Administration and Management58
Knowledge of business and management principles involved in strategic planning, resource allocation, human resources modeling, leadership technique, production methods, and coordination of people and resources.
Customer and Personal Service57
Knowledge of principles and processes for providing customer and personal services. This includes customer needs assessment, meeting quality standards for services, and evaluation of customer satisfaction.
Administrative56
Knowledge of administrative and office procedures and systems such as word processing, managing files and records, stenography and transcription, designing forms, and workplace terminology.
Computers and Electronics54
Knowledge of circuit boards, processors, chips, electronic equipment, and computer hardware and software, including applications and programming.
Personnel and Human Resources49
Knowledge of principles and procedures for personnel recruitment, selection, training, compensation and benefits, labor relations and negotiation, and personnel information systems.
Communications and Media33
Knowledge of media production, communication, and dissemination techniques and methods. This includes alternative ways to inform and entertain via written, oral, and visual media.
Sales and Marketing29
Knowledge of principles and methods for showing, promoting, and selling products or services. This includes marketing strategy and tactics, product demonstration, sales techniques, and sales control systems.
Telecommunications29
Knowledge of transmission, broadcasting, switching, control, and operation of telecommunications systems.

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Education and Training28
Knowledge of principles and methods for curriculum and training design, teaching and instruction for individuals and groups, and the measurement of training effects.
Production and Processing26
Knowledge of raw materials, production processes, quality control, costs, and other techniques for maximizing the effective manufacture and distribution of goods.
Psychology19
Knowledge of human behavior and performance; individual differences in ability, personality, and interests; learning and motivation; psychological research methods; and the assessment and treatment of behavioral and affective disorders.
Public Safety and Security18
Knowledge of relevant equipment, policies, procedures, and strategies to promote effective local, state, or national security operations for the protection of people, data, property, and institutions.
Transportation18
Knowledge of principles and methods for moving people or goods by air, rail, sea, or road, including the relative costs and benefits.
Engineering and Technology10
Knowledge of the practical application of engineering science and technology. This includes applying principles, techniques, procedures, and equipment to the design and production of various goods and services.
Sociology and Anthropology10
Knowledge of group behavior and dynamics, societal trends and influences, human migrations, ethnicity, cultures, and their history and origins.
Geography9
Knowledge of principles and methods for describing the features of land, sea, and air masses, including their physical characteristics, locations, interrelationships, and distribution of plant, animal, and human life.
Food Production8
Knowledge of techniques and equipment for planting, growing, and harvesting food products (both plant and animal) for consumption, including storage/handling techniques.
Philosophy and Theology8
Knowledge of different philosophical systems and religions. This includes their basic principles, values, ethics, ways of thinking, customs, practices, and their impact on human culture.
Therapy and Counseling8
Knowledge of principles, methods, and procedures for diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation of physical and mental dysfunctions, and for career counseling and guidance.
Building and Construction7
Knowledge of materials, methods, and the tools involved in the construction or repair of houses, buildings, or other structures such as highways and roads.
Foreign Language7
Knowledge of the structure and content of a foreign (non-English) language including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition and grammar, and pronunciation.
Design6
Knowledge of design techniques, tools, and principles involved in production of precision technical plans, blueprints, drawings, and models.
History and Archeology5
Knowledge of historical events and their causes, indicators, and effects on civilizations and cultures.
Mechanical5
Knowledge of machines and tools, including their designs, uses, repair, and maintenance.
Medicine and Dentistry4
Knowledge of the information and techniques needed to diagnose and treat human injuries, diseases, and deformities. This includes symptoms, treatment alternatives, drug properties and interactions, and preventive health-care measures.
Physics4
Knowledge and prediction of physical principles, laws, their interrelationships, and applications to understanding fluid, material, and atmospheric dynamics, and mechanical, electrical, atomic and sub-atomic structures and processes.
Biology3
Knowledge of plant and animal organisms, their tissues, cells, functions, interdependencies, and interactions with each other and the environment.
Chemistry3
Knowledge of the chemical composition, structure, and properties of substances and of the chemical processes and transformations that they undergo. This includes uses of chemicals and their interactions, danger signs, production techniques, and disposal methods.
Fine Arts2
Knowledge of the theory and techniques required to compose, produce, and perform works of music, dance, visual arts, drama, and sculpture.

Abilities

Enduring attributes of the individual that influence performance.

Inductive Reasoning72
The ability to combine pieces of information to form general rules or conclusions (includes finding a relationship among seemingly unrelated events).
Mathematical Reasoning72
The ability to choose the right mathematical methods or formulas to solve a problem.
Written Comprehension72
The ability to read and understand information and ideas presented in writing.
Deductive Reasoning69
The ability to apply general rules to specific problems to produce answers that make sense.
Oral Comprehension69
The ability to listen to and understand information and ideas presented through spoken words and sentences.
Oral Expression69
The ability to communicate information and ideas in speaking so others will understand.
Written Expression69
The ability to communicate information and ideas in writing so others will understand.
Near Vision66
The ability to see details at close range (within a few feet of the observer).
Number Facility66
The ability to add, subtract, multiply, or divide quickly and correctly.
Information Ordering63
The ability to arrange things or actions in a certain order or pattern according to a specific rule or set of rules (e.g., patterns of numbers, letters, words, pictures, mathematical operations).
Problem Sensitivity63
The ability to tell when something is wrong or is likely to go wrong. It does not involve solving the problem, only recognizing that there is a problem.
Category Flexibility60
The ability to generate or use different sets of rules for combining or grouping things in different ways.

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Flexibility of Closure60
The ability to identify or detect a known pattern (a figure, object, word, or sound) that is hidden in other distracting material.
Speech Clarity56
The ability to speak clearly so others can understand you.
Speech Recognition56
The ability to identify and understand the speech of another person.
Fluency of Ideas50
The ability to come up with a number of ideas about a topic (the number of ideas is important, not their quality, correctness, or creativity).
Selective Attention50
The ability to concentrate on a task over a period of time without being distracted.
Originality47
The ability to come up with unusual or clever ideas about a given topic or situation, or to develop creative ways to solve a problem.
Perceptual Speed47
The ability to quickly and accurately compare similarities and differences among sets of letters, numbers, objects, pictures, or patterns. The things to be compared may be presented at the same time or one after the other. This ability also includes comparing a presented object with a remembered object.
Speed of Closure47
The ability to quickly make sense of, combine, and organize information into meaningful patterns.
Far Vision44
The ability to see details at a distance.
Memorization38
The ability to remember information such as words, numbers, pictures, and procedures.
Time Sharing31
The ability to shift back and forth between two or more activities or sources of information (such as speech, sounds, touch, or other sources).
Visual Color Discrimination28
The ability to match or detect differences between colors, including shades of color and brightness.
Visualization28
The ability to imagine how something will look after it is moved around or when its parts are moved or rearranged.
Auditory Attention25
The ability to focus on a single source of sound in the presence of other distracting sounds.
Trunk Strength25
The ability to use your abdominal and lower back muscles to support part of the body repeatedly or continuously over time without "giving out" or fatiguing.
Finger Dexterity22
The ability to make precisely coordinated movements of the fingers of one or both hands to grasp, manipulate, or assemble very small objects.
Wrist-Finger Speed22
The ability to make fast, simple, repeated movements of the fingers, hands, and wrists.
Arm-Hand Steadiness19
The ability to keep your hand and arm steady while moving your arm or while holding your arm and hand in one position.
Control Precision19
The ability to quickly and repeatedly adjust the controls of a machine or a vehicle to exact positions.
Hearing Sensitivity19
The ability to detect or tell the differences between sounds that vary in pitch and loudness.
Manual Dexterity19
The ability to quickly move your hand, your hand together with your arm, or your two hands to grasp, manipulate, or assemble objects.
Depth Perception13
The ability to judge which of several objects is closer or farther away from you, or to judge the distance between you and an object.
Dynamic Strength10
The ability to exert muscle force repeatedly or continuously over time. This involves muscular endurance and resistance to muscle fatigue.
Multilimb Coordination3
The ability to coordinate two or more limbs (for example, two arms, two legs, or one leg and one arm) while sitting, standing, or lying down. It does not involve performing the activities while the whole body is in motion.
Rate Control3
The ability to time your movements or the movement of a piece of equipment in anticipation of changes in the speed and/or direction of a moving object or scene.
Reaction Time3
The ability to quickly respond (with the hand, finger, or foot) to a signal (sound, light, picture) when it appears.
Response Orientation3
The ability to choose quickly between two or more movements in response to two or more different signals (lights, sounds, pictures). It includes the speed with which the correct response is started with the hand, foot, or other body part.
Spatial Orientation3
The ability to know your location in relation to the environment or to know where other objects are in relation to you.
Speed of Limb Movement3
The ability to quickly move the arms and legs.
Dynamic Flexibility0
The ability to quickly and repeatedly bend, stretch, twist, or reach out with your body, arms, and/or legs.
Explosive Strength0
The ability to use short bursts of muscle force to propel oneself (as in jumping or sprinting), or to throw an object.
Extent Flexibility0
The ability to bend, stretch, twist, or reach with your body, arms, and/or legs.
Glare Sensitivity0
The ability to see objects in the presence of a glare or bright lighting.
Gross Body Coordination0
The ability to coordinate the movement of your arms, legs, and torso together when the whole body is in motion.
Gross Body Equilibrium0
The ability to keep or regain your body balance or stay upright when in an unstable position.
Night Vision0
The ability to see under low-light conditions.
Peripheral Vision0
The ability to see objects or movement of objects to one's side when the eyes are looking ahead.
Sound Localization0
The ability to tell the direction from which a sound originated.
Stamina0
The ability to exert yourself physically over long periods of time without getting winded or out of breath.
Static Strength0
The ability to exert maximum muscle force to lift, push, pull, or carry objects.

Work Activities

General types of job behaviors occurring on multiple jobs.

Getting Information91
Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sources.
Working with Computers90
Using computers and computer systems (including hardware and software) to program, write software, set up functions, enter data, or process information.
Analyzing Data or Information81
Identifying the underlying principles, reasons, or facts of information by breaking down information or data into separate parts.
Evaluating Information to Determine Compliance with Standards79
Using relevant information and individual judgment to determine whether events or processes comply with laws, regulations, or standards.
Processing Information79
Compiling, coding, categorizing, calculating, tabulating, auditing, or verifying information or data.
Making Decisions and Solving Problems78
Analyzing information and evaluating results to choose the best solution and solve problems.
Organizing, Planning, and Prioritizing Work78
Developing specific goals and plans to prioritize, organize, and accomplish your work.
Updating and Using Relevant Knowledge78
Keeping up-to-date technically and applying new knowledge to your job.
Communicating with Supervisors, Peers, or Subordinates77
Providing information to supervisors, co-workers, and subordinates by telephone, in written form, e-mail, or in person.
Communicating with People Outside the Organization73
Communicating with people outside the organization, representing the organization to customers, the public, government, and other external sources. This information can be exchanged in person, in writing, or by telephone or e-mail.
Documenting/Recording Information72
Entering, transcribing, recording, storing, or maintaining information in written or electronic/magnetic form.
Establishing and Maintaining Interpersonal Relationships70
Developing constructive and cooperative working relationships with others, and maintaining them over time.

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Identifying Objects, Actions, and Events69
Identifying information by categorizing, estimating, recognizing differences or similarities, and detecting changes in circumstances or events.
Interpreting the Meaning of Information for Others64
Translating or explaining what information means and how it can be used.
Providing Consultation and Advice to Others64
Providing guidance and expert advice to management or other groups on technical, systems-, or process-related topics.
Performing Administrative Activities60
Performing day-to-day administrative tasks such as maintaining information files and processing paperwork.
Scheduling Work and Activities60
Scheduling events, programs, and activities, as well as the work of others.
Training and Teaching Others59
Identifying the educational needs of others, developing formal educational or training programs or classes, and teaching or instructing others.
Coaching and Developing Others53
Identifying the developmental needs of others and coaching, mentoring, or otherwise helping others to improve their knowledge or skills.
Coordinating the Work and Activities of Others53
Getting members of a group to work together to accomplish tasks.
Developing and Building Teams52
Encouraging and building mutual trust, respect, and cooperation among team members.
Guiding, Directing, and Motivating Subordinates51
Providing guidance and direction to subordinates, including setting performance standards and monitoring performance.
Monitoring Processes, Materials, or Surroundings49
Monitoring and reviewing information from materials, events, or the environment, to detect or assess problems.
Monitoring and Controlling Resources48
Monitoring and controlling resources and overseeing the spending of money.
Developing Objectives and Strategies47
Establishing long-range objectives and specifying the strategies and actions to achieve them.
Estimating the Quantifiable Characteristics of Products, Events, or Information45
Estimating sizes, distances, and quantities; or determining time, costs, resources, or materials needed to perform a work activity.
Resolving Conflicts and Negotiating with Others44
Handling complaints, settling disputes, and resolving grievances and conflicts, or otherwise negotiating with others.
Thinking Creatively44
Developing, designing, or creating new applications, ideas, relationships, systems, or products, including artistic contributions.
Performing for or Working Directly with the Public43
Performing for people or dealing directly with the public. This includes serving customers in restaurants and stores, and receiving clients or guests.
Judging the Qualities of Objects, Services, or People39
Assessing the value, importance, or quality of things or people.
Staffing Organizational Units39
Recruiting, interviewing, selecting, hiring, and promoting employees in an organization.
Selling or Influencing Others24
Convincing others to buy merchandise/goods or to otherwise change their minds or actions.
Inspecting Equipment, Structures, or Materials23
Inspecting equipment, structures, or materials to identify the cause of errors or other problems or defects.
Assisting and Caring for Others22
Providing personal assistance, medical attention, emotional support, or other personal care to others such as coworkers, customers, or patients.
Controlling Machines and Processes19
Using either control mechanisms or direct physical activity to operate machines or processes (not including computers or vehicles).
Handling and Moving Objects14
Using hands and arms in handling, installing, positioning, and moving materials, and manipulating things.
Performing General Physical Activities14
Performing general physical activities includes doing activities that require considerable use of your arms and legs and moving your whole body, such as climbing, lifting, balancing, walking, stooping, and handling materials.
Repairing and Maintaining Electronic Equipment13
Servicing, repairing, calibrating, regulating, fine-tuning, or testing machines, devices, and equipment that operate primarily on the basis of electrical or electronic (not mechanical) principles.
Drafting, Laying Out, and Specifying Technical Devices, Parts, and Equipment9
Providing documentation, detailed instructions, drawings, or specifications to tell others about how devices, parts, equipment, or structures are to be fabricated, constructed, assembled, modified, maintained, or used.
Operating Vehicles, Mechanized Devices, or Equipment8
Running, maneuvering, navigating, or driving vehicles or mechanized equipment, such as forklifts, passenger vehicles, aircraft, or watercraft.
Repairing and Maintaining Mechanical Equipment4
Servicing, repairing, adjusting, and testing machines, devices, moving parts, and equipment that operate primarily on the basis of mechanical (not electronic) principles.

Work Styles

Personal characteristics that can affect how well someone performs a job.

Attention to Detail100
A tendency to be detail-oriented, organized, and thorough in completing work.
Integrity98
A tendency to be honest and ethical at work.
Dependability88
A tendency to be reliable, responsible, and consistent in meeting work-related obligations.
Cautiousness85
A tendency to be careful, deliberate, and risk-avoidant when making work-related decisions or doing work.
Intellectual Curiosity67
A tendency to seek out and acquire new work-related knowledge and obtain a deep understanding of work-related subjects.
Achievement Orientation61
A tendency to establish and maintain personally challenging work-related goals, set high work-related standards, and exert high effort toward meeting those goals and standards.
Perseverance59
A tendency to exhibit determination and resolve to perform or complete tasks in the face of difficult circumstances or obstacles at work.
Self-Confidence48
A tendency to believe in one's work-related capabilities and ability to control one's work-related outcomes.
Self-Control46
A tendency to remain calm and composed and to manage emotions effectively in response to criticism or difficult situations at work.
Stress Tolerance46
A tendency to cope and function effectively in stressful situations at work.
Sincerity43
A tendency to be genuine and sincere in interactions with others at work, without concern for personal gain or self-interest.
Initiative33
A tendency to be proactive and take on extra responsibilities and tasks that may fall outside of one's required work role.

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Leadership Orientation28
A tendency to lead, take charge, offer opinions, and provide direction at work.
Cooperation24
A tendency to be pleasant, helpful, and willing to assist others at work.
Adaptability21
A tendency to be open to and comfortable with change, new experiences, or ideas at work.
Innovation17
A tendency to be inventive, to be imaginative, and to adopt new perspectives on ways to accomplish work.
Social Orientation17
A tendency to seek out, enjoy, and be energized by social interaction at work.
Humility16
A tendency to be modest and humble when interacting with others at work.
Empathy8
A tendency to show concern for others and be sensitive to others' needs and feelings at work.

Interests (RIASEC)

Holland's six occupational interest types (RIASEC) this work tends to attract.

Conventional100
Work involves following procedures and regulations to organize information or data, typically in a business setting. Conventional occupations are often associated with office work, accounting, mathematics/statistics, information technology, finance, or human resources.
Enterprising48
Work involves managing, negotiating, marketing, or selling, typically in a business setting, or leading or advising people in political and legal situations. Enterprising occupations are often associated with business initiatives, sales, marketing/advertising, finance, management/administration, professional advising, public speaking, politics, or law.
Investigative43
Work involves studying and researching non-living objects, living organisms, disease or other forms of impairment, or human behavior. Investigative occupations are often associated with physical, life, medical, or social sciences, and can be found in the fields of humanities, mathematics/statistics, information technology, or health care service.
Social19
Work involves helping, teaching, advising, assisting, or providing service to others. Social occupations are often associated with social, health care, personal service, teaching/education, or religious activities.
Realistic2
Work involves designing, building, or repairing of equipment, materials, or structures, engaging in physical activity, or working outdoors. Realistic occupations are often associated with engineering, mechanics and electronics, construction, woodworking, transportation, machine operation, agriculture, animal services, physical or manual labor, athletics, or protective services.
Artistic1
Work involves creating original visual artwork, performances, written works, food, or music for a variety of media, or applying artistic principles to the design of various objects and materials. Artistic occupations are often associated with visual arts, applied arts and design, performing arts, music, creative writing, media, or culinary art.

Work Context

Physical and social factors that influence the nature of work.

E-Mail
- Every day97%
Telephone Conversations
- Every day72%
- Once a week or more but not every day28%
Importance of Being Exact or Accurate
- Extremely important69%
- Very important28%
Indoors, Environmentally Controlled
- Every day89%
Spend Time Sitting
- Continually or almost continually59%
- More than half the time34%
Face-to-Face Discussions with Individuals and Within Teams
- Every day66%
- Once a week or more but not every day24%
Work With or Contribute to a Work Group or Team
- Extremely important38%
- Very important41%
- Important14%
Importance of Repeating Same Tasks
- Extremely important41%
- Very important34%
- Fairly important14%
Duration of Typical Work Week
- More than 40 hours50%
- 40 hours46%
Time Pressure
- Every day31%
- Once a week or more but not every day28%
- Once a month or more but not every week41%
Impact of Decisions on Co-workers or Company Results
- Very important results28%
- Important results34%
- Moderate results28%
Freedom to Make Decisions
- A lot of freedom14%
- Some freedom52%
- Limited freedom31%

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Contact With Others
- Constant contact with others17%
- Contact with others most of the time45%
- Contact with others about half the time28%
Determine Tasks, Priorities and Goals
- Some freedom62%
- Limited freedom24%
Frequency of Decision Making
- Every day28%
- Once a week or more but not every day28%
- Once a month or more but not every week21%
- Once a year or more but not every month24%
Work Outcomes and Results of Other Workers
- Very high responsibility17%
- High responsibility38%
- Moderate responsibility24%
- Limited responsibility17%
Written Letters and Memos
- Every day14%
- Once a week or more but not every day38%
- Once a month or more but not every week31%
- Once a year or more but not every month17%
Deal With External Customers or the Public in General
- Extremely important28%
- Very important21%
- Important21%
- Fairly important24%
Spend Time Using Your Hands to Handle, Control, or Feel Objects, Tools, or Controls
- Continually or almost continually45%
- Never31%
Coordinate or Lead Others in Accomplishing Work Activities
- Extremely important14%
- Very important31%
- Important24%
- Fairly important28%
Level of Competition
- Highly competitive14%
- Moderately competitive66%
Degree of Automation
- Highly automated28%
- Moderately automated45%
- Slightly automated21%
Conflict Situations
- Once a month or more but not every week38%
- Once a year or more but not every month45%
Consequence of Error
- Very serious17%
- Serious34%
- Fairly serious34%
Spend Time Making Repetitive Motions
- Continually or almost continually17%
- More than half the time17%
- About half the time14%
- Less than half the time14%
- Never38%
Physical Proximity
- Slightly close (e.g., shared office)48%
- I work with others but not closely (e.g., private office)48%
Dealing With Unpleasant, Angry, or Discourteous People
- Once a month or more but not every week31%
- Once a year or more but not every month45%
- Never14%
Exposed to Sounds, Noise Levels that are Distracting or Uncomfortable
- Once a month or more but not every week24%
- Once a year or more but not every month21%
- Never41%
Health and Safety of Other Workers
- Moderate responsibility24%
- Limited responsibility28%
- No responsibility38%
Public Speaking
- Once a month or more but not every week17%
- Once a year or more but not every month55%
- Never21%
Spend Time Standing
- Less than half the time66%
- Never17%
In an Enclosed Vehicle or Operate Enclosed Equipment
- Once a month or more but not every week17%
- Once a year or more but not every month14%
- Never66%
Spend Time Walking or Running
- Less than half the time48%
- Never52%
Work Schedules
- Regular (established routine, set schedule)83%
Indoors, Not Environmentally Controlled
- Once a year or more but not every month34%
- Never62%
Spend Time Bending or Twisting Your Body
- Less than half the time34%
- Never66%
Exposed to Extremely Bright or Inadequate Lighting Conditions
- Once a year or more but not every month31%
- Never69%
Outdoors, Exposed to All Weather Conditions
- Once a year or more but not every month28%
- Never72%
Exposed to Contaminants
- Once a year or more but not every month17%
- Never79%
Outdoors, Under Cover
- Once a year or more but not every month25%
- Never75%
Pace Determined by Speed of Equipment
- Not important at all86%
Exposed to Minor Burns, Cuts, Bites, or Stings
- Once a year or more but not every month14%
- Never83%
Spend Time Kneeling, Crouching, Stooping, or Crawling
- Less than half the time21%
- Never79%
Dealing with Violent or Physically Aggressive People
- Never86%
Exposed to Cramped Work Space, Awkward Positions
- Once a year or more but not every month14%
- Never86%
Exposed to Radiation
- Never97%
Exposed to Very Hot or Cold Temperatures
- Once a year or more but not every month17%
- Never83%
Spend Time Keeping or Regaining Balance
- Less than half the time14%
- Never86%
Wear Common Protective or Safety Equipment such as Safety Shoes, Glasses, Gloves, Hearing Protection, Hard Hats, or Life Jackets
- Once a year or more but not every month14%
- Never86%
Exposed to Disease or Infections
- Never97%
Exposed to Hazardous Equipment
- Never97%
Exposed to High Places
- Never97%
Exposed to Whole Body Vibration
- Never97%
Spend Time Climbing Ladders, Scaffolds, or Poles
- Never97%
Wear Specialized Protective or Safety Equipment such as Breathing Apparatus, Safety Harness, Full Protection Suits, or Radiation Protection
- Never97%
Exposed to Hazardous Conditions
- Never100%
In an Open Vehicle or Operating Equipment
- Never100%

Typical Education Levels Reported

Education levels O*NET survey respondents in this occupation most often reported having.

Bachelor’s degree
Associate’s degree or other 2-year degree
Post-baccalaureate certificate

Technology Skills

Specific software and technology tools commonly used on the job.

Accounting software
Intuit QuickBooks, Sage 50 Accounting, SAP Concur, Summit Software Summit Biofuels Accounting
Word processing software
Google Docs, Microsoft OneNote, Microsoft Word
Financial analysis software
Delphi Technology, Oracle E-Business Suite Financials, TopCAATs, Tropics workers' compensation software
Tax preparation software
ATX Total Tax Office, CCH ProSystem fx TAX, Intuit TurboTax, Thomson GoSystem Tax
Enterprise resource planning ERP software
Microsoft Dynamics, Oracle PeopleSoft, SAP software, Workday software
Compliance software
Intrax ProcedureNet, Sage HandiSoft HandiLedger, Tax compliance property tax management software, TrendTracker Compliance Solution
Data base user interface and query software
Microsoft SQL Server, Oracle Database, Structured query language SQL, Yardi software
Document management software
Adobe Acrobat, Document management system software, Microsoft SharePoint, Sage CPADocument Manager
Analytical or scientific software
Guidance Software EnCase Enterprise, IBM SPSS Statistics, SAS, WizSoft WizRule
Medical software
Epic Systems, Medical condition coding software, Medical procedure coding software, MEDITECH software
Business intelligence and data analysis software
Alteryx software, IBM Cognos Impromptu, Oracle Business Intelligence Enterprise Edition, Tableau
Human resources software
ADP Workforce Now, CPSI EHR System, Human resource management software HRMS, Sage HRMS
Billing and invoicing software
Billing software, Choice Technologies PowerBill +, Client billing software, Invoice software
Electronic mail software
IBM Notes, Microsoft Exchange, Microsoft Outlook
Development environment software
eXtensible Business Reporting Language XBRL, Microsoft Visual Basic, Microsoft Visual Basic for Applications VBA
Office suite software
Corel WordPerfect Office Suite, Microsoft Office software, Microsoft Works
Spreadsheet software
Google Sheets, Microsoft Excel
Customer relationship management CRM software
Blackbaud The Raiser's Edge, Salesforce software
Operating system software
Microsoft Windows, UNIX
Data base management system software
Apache Solr, Teradata Database
Data base reporting software
ADP Super Report Writer, SAP Crystal Reports
Object or component oriented development software
R, Swift
Time accounting software
Payroll software, WorkForce Software EmpCenter Time and Attendance
Presentation software
Google Slides, Microsoft PowerPoint
Data mining software
Data extraction software, WizSoft WizWhy
Project management software
Microsoft Project, Oracle Primavera Enterprise Project Portfolio Management
Risk management data and analysis software
Thomson Reuters Risk Management
Enterprise system management software
IBM Power Systems software
Desktop communications software
Eko
Desktop publishing software
Microsoft Publisher
Video creation and editing software
TechSmith Camtasia
Enterprise application integration software
SAP BusinessObjects Data Integrator
Transaction server software
Tumbleweed SecureTransport
Transaction security and virus protection software
NortonLifeLock cybersecurity software
Inventory management software
Asset management software
Process mapping and design software
Microsoft Visio
Information retrieval or search software
LexisNexis

Professional Associations

Related Occupations

Occupations that call for similar work and worker requirements.

Detailed Work Activities

More specific, granular versions of the Work Activities above.

Examine financial records.
Examine financial records or processes.
Analyze business or financial data.
Pay charges, fees, or taxes.
Conduct financial or regulatory audits.
Prepare financial documents, reports, or budgets.
Prepare financial documents.
Analyze financial information.
Calculate tax information.
Verify accuracy of financial information.
Collect evidence for legal proceedings.
Investigate legal issues.

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Report information to managers or other personnel.
Assess financial status of clients.
Develop business or financial information systems.
Oversee business processes.
Discuss business strategies, practices, or policies with managers.
Verify accuracy of records.
Advise others on financial matters.
Analyze budgetary or accounting data.
Negotiate financial arrangements.
Prepare operational budgets.
Provide legal advice to clients.
Represent the interests of clients in legal proceedings.
Coordinate regulatory documentation activities.
Evaluate effectiveness of personnel policies or practices.
Advise others on human resources topics.
Advise others on business or operational matters.

Apprenticeship Occupations

Registered apprenticeship program titles associated with this occupation.

Finance Business Partner

This page incorporates information from O*NET Web Services by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA).

Based on federal labor and demographic data. Data source & methodology