Types of CPA Jobs
Public Accountant
A public accountant works for a public accounting firm and provides services such as auditing, tax preparation, and consulting to a variety of clients. They may work with individuals, businesses, and government entities. Public accountants often specialize in areas like tax, audit, or advisory services. They are required to maintain a CPA license and adhere to strict ethical standards. Their work is often subject to external review and regulation.
Management Accountant
Management accountants, also known as cost, managerial, corporate, or private accountants, work within organizations to record and analyze financial information for internal use. They help companies budget, manage costs, and evaluate performance. Their work supports strategic decision-making by management. Management accountants may also be involved in risk management and financial planning. They typically do not work with the public or external clients.
Government Accountant
Government accountants work for federal, state, or local government agencies. They are responsible for maintaining and examining records of government agencies and auditing private businesses and individuals whose activities are subject to government regulations or taxation. Their work ensures that revenues and expenditures are made in accordance with laws and regulations. Government accountants may also be involved in budgeting and financial reporting. They play a key role in ensuring transparency and accountability in public finances.
Forensic Accountant
Forensic accountants specialize in investigating financial discrepancies and fraud. They use accounting, auditing, and investigative skills to examine financial records and provide litigation support. Forensic accountants may work for public accounting firms, law enforcement agencies, or as independent consultants. Their work often involves preparing reports for use in legal proceedings and testifying as expert witnesses. They play a crucial role in uncovering financial crimes and resolving disputes.
Internal Auditor
Internal auditors work within organizations to evaluate and improve the effectiveness of risk management, control, and governance processes. They review financial and operational processes to ensure compliance with laws, regulations, and company policies. Internal auditors identify areas of inefficiency or risk and recommend improvements. Their work helps organizations achieve their objectives and safeguard assets. They often report directly to senior management or the board of directors.
Entry Level Job Titles
Staff Accountant
A staff accountant is an entry-level position responsible for maintaining financial records, preparing journal entries, and assisting with month-end and year-end closings. They may also help with account reconciliations and basic financial analysis. Staff accountants typically work under the supervision of senior accountants or managers. This role provides foundational experience in accounting principles and practices. It is a common starting point for new CPAs.
Audit Associate
An audit associate assists in the examination and analysis of financial statements for accuracy and compliance. They work as part of an audit team, often under the guidance of senior auditors. Audit associates perform tasks such as testing controls, gathering evidence, and documenting findings. This role provides exposure to various industries and clients. It is a typical entry-level position in public accounting firms.
Tax Associate
A tax associate prepares tax returns and assists with tax planning for individuals and businesses. They research tax laws, gather client information, and ensure compliance with regulations. Tax associates work closely with senior tax professionals to resolve client issues. This position offers hands-on experience in tax accounting and compliance. It is a common entry point for CPAs interested in tax specialization.
Junior Accountant
A junior accountant supports the accounting department by performing basic bookkeeping, data entry, and account reconciliations. They may assist with payroll, accounts payable, and accounts receivable functions. Junior accountants gain practical experience in day-to-day accounting operations. This role is often a stepping stone to more advanced positions. It is suitable for recent graduates or those new to the accounting field.
Accounts Payable/Receivable Clerk
An accounts payable/receivable clerk manages incoming and outgoing payments for an organization. They process invoices, track payments, and resolve discrepancies. This role requires attention to detail and strong organizational skills. It provides valuable experience in transactional accounting. Many CPAs begin their careers in such clerical roles before advancing to higher-level positions.
Mid Level Job Titles
Senior Accountant
A senior accountant oversees complex accounting tasks, prepares financial statements, and ensures compliance with accounting standards. They may supervise junior staff and review their work. Senior accountants are responsible for account analysis, reconciliations, and assisting with audits. They often play a key role in month-end and year-end closing processes. This position requires several years of experience and a strong understanding of accounting principles.
Audit Senior
An audit senior leads audit engagements, manages client relationships, and supervises audit associates. They are responsible for planning and executing audit procedures, reviewing workpapers, and ensuring the accuracy of financial statements. Audit seniors provide guidance and training to junior staff. They also communicate findings and recommendations to clients. This role is a critical step toward management positions in public accounting.
Tax Senior
A tax senior manages tax compliance and planning for clients, reviews tax returns prepared by associates, and provides tax advice. They research complex tax issues and ensure clients are in compliance with current laws. Tax seniors often interact directly with clients to address their needs. They may also mentor junior staff and assist with business development. This position requires in-depth tax knowledge and several years of experience.
Internal Auditor II
An Internal Auditor II conducts audits of internal controls, processes, and financial systems. They identify risks, evaluate controls, and recommend improvements. This role involves more complex audits and may include supervising junior auditors. Internal Auditor IIs often work on special projects and provide input on audit planning. They play a key role in ensuring organizational compliance and efficiency.
Financial Analyst
A financial analyst evaluates financial data, prepares reports, and assists with budgeting and forecasting. They analyze trends, identify variances, and provide insights to support decision-making. Financial analysts may work in corporate finance, investment analysis, or management accounting. This role requires strong analytical and communication skills. It is a common mid-level position for CPAs seeking broader business experience.
Senior Level Job Titles
Accounting Manager
An accounting manager oversees the daily operations of the accounting department, manages staff, and ensures accurate financial reporting. They are responsible for developing and implementing accounting policies and procedures. Accounting managers coordinate audits, prepare budgets, and analyze financial performance. They play a key role in strategic planning and decision-making. This position requires strong leadership and technical accounting skills.
Audit Manager
An audit manager leads audit teams, manages client portfolios, and ensures the quality of audit engagements. They are responsible for planning, executing, and reviewing audits, as well as developing client relationships. Audit managers mentor staff and contribute to business development efforts. They ensure compliance with professional standards and regulatory requirements. This role is a significant leadership position in public accounting.
Tax Manager
A tax manager oversees tax compliance, planning, and strategy for clients or an organization. They manage a team of tax professionals, review complex tax returns, and provide guidance on tax issues. Tax managers stay current with changing tax laws and advise clients on minimizing tax liabilities. They play a key role in client relationship management and business development. This position requires extensive tax expertise and leadership skills.
Senior Internal Auditor
A senior internal auditor leads internal audit projects, evaluates risk management processes, and ensures compliance with policies and regulations. They design audit programs, conduct fieldwork, and report findings to management. Senior internal auditors may also provide training and mentorship to junior staff. They play a critical role in improving organizational controls and efficiency. This position requires strong analytical and communication skills.
Controller
A controller is responsible for overseeing all accounting operations, including financial reporting, budgeting, and internal controls. They manage accounting staff, ensure compliance with regulations, and provide financial analysis to support executive decision-making. Controllers often report directly to the CFO or CEO. They play a key role in strategic planning and financial management. This is a senior leadership position requiring extensive experience and expertise.
Director Level Job Titles
Director of Accounting
The Director of Accounting oversees the entire accounting function of an organization, ensuring accurate financial reporting and compliance with regulations. They develop accounting policies, manage teams, and coordinate audits. Directors of Accounting play a strategic role in financial planning and analysis. They often report to the CFO and participate in executive decision-making. This position requires strong leadership, technical expertise, and business acumen.
Director of Audit
The Director of Audit leads the internal audit department, develops audit strategies, and ensures the effectiveness of risk management and control processes. They oversee audit teams, manage resources, and report findings to senior management and the board. Directors of Audit play a key role in organizational governance and compliance. They are responsible for maintaining high standards of audit quality. This position requires extensive experience in auditing and leadership.
Director of Tax
The Director of Tax manages all tax-related functions for an organization, including compliance, planning, and strategy. They oversee tax teams, develop tax policies, and ensure adherence to changing tax laws. Directors of Tax advise senior management on tax implications of business decisions. They play a critical role in minimizing tax liabilities and managing risk. This position requires deep tax expertise and strong leadership skills.
Director of Finance
The Director of Finance oversees financial planning, analysis, and reporting for an organization. They manage finance teams, develop budgets, and support strategic initiatives. Directors of Finance work closely with other executives to drive business performance. They ensure the organization's financial health and compliance with regulations. This is a high-level leadership role requiring broad financial expertise.
Director of Internal Audit
The Director of Internal Audit leads the internal audit function, develops audit plans, and ensures the effectiveness of internal controls. They report to senior management and the audit committee, providing independent assessments of risk and control processes. Directors of Internal Audit manage audit teams and oversee complex audit projects. They play a key role in organizational governance and risk management. This position requires significant experience and strong leadership abilities.
VP Level Job Titles
Vice President of Finance
The Vice President of Finance is responsible for the overall financial strategy and management of an organization. They oversee accounting, budgeting, financial planning, and risk management functions. VPs of Finance work closely with the executive team to drive business growth and profitability. They play a key role in mergers, acquisitions, and capital raising activities. This is a top executive position requiring extensive experience and leadership skills.
Vice President of Accounting
The Vice President of Accounting leads the accounting function, ensuring accurate financial reporting and compliance with regulations. They develop accounting policies, manage large teams, and oversee audits. VPs of Accounting provide strategic guidance to the executive team and support business decision-making. They are responsible for maintaining the integrity of financial information. This role requires deep technical expertise and strong leadership.
Vice President of Tax
The Vice President of Tax oversees all tax-related activities, including compliance, planning, and strategy. They lead tax teams, develop tax policies, and advise the executive team on tax matters. VPs of Tax play a critical role in managing tax risk and optimizing the organization's tax position. They stay current with changing tax laws and regulations. This is a senior executive role requiring significant tax expertise and leadership.
Vice President of Internal Audit
The Vice President of Internal Audit leads the internal audit function at the highest level, setting audit strategy and ensuring effective risk management. They report to the board or audit committee and provide independent assessments of organizational controls. VPs of Internal Audit manage large audit teams and oversee complex audit projects. They play a key role in governance and compliance. This position requires extensive audit experience and executive leadership skills.
Vice President of Corporate Finance
The Vice President of Corporate Finance is responsible for managing the organization's capital structure, investments, and financial strategy. They oversee mergers and acquisitions, capital raising, and financial planning activities. VPs of Corporate Finance work closely with the CEO and board to drive business growth. They play a key role in strategic decision-making and risk management. This is a top-level executive position requiring broad financial expertise and leadership.
How to Advance Your Current CPA Title
Pursue Continuing Education and Certifications
Staying current with accounting standards, tax laws, and industry trends is essential for career advancement. Pursuing additional certifications such as Certified Management Accountant (CMA) or Certified Internal Auditor (CIA) can enhance your qualifications. Attending workshops, seminars, and professional conferences helps expand your knowledge and network. Many employers value employees who demonstrate a commitment to lifelong learning. Continuing education can open doors to more advanced roles and responsibilities.
Gain Diverse Experience
Seeking opportunities to work on different projects, clients, or industries can broaden your skill set. Rotating through various departments or taking on special assignments helps you develop a well-rounded understanding of accounting and finance. Diverse experience is often required for higher-level positions. It also demonstrates adaptability and initiative to employers. Building a broad base of experience can make you a more attractive candidate for promotion.
Develop Leadership and Management Skills
Advancing to senior or executive roles often requires strong leadership and management abilities. Taking on supervisory responsibilities, mentoring junior staff, or leading project teams can help you develop these skills. Participating in leadership training programs or pursuing an MBA can also be beneficial. Effective communication, decision-making, and conflict resolution are key competencies for advancement. Demonstrating leadership potential can position you for management roles.
Build a Professional Network
Networking with colleagues, industry professionals, and mentors can provide valuable career opportunities and insights. Joining professional organizations such as the AICPA or state CPA societies can expand your network. Attending industry events and participating in online forums can help you stay connected. Building relationships with influential professionals can lead to job referrals, mentorship, and career advancement. A strong network is a valuable asset for career growth.
Demonstrate Results and Initiative
Consistently delivering high-quality work and exceeding performance expectations can set you apart from your peers. Volunteering for challenging projects, proposing process improvements, or taking the lead on initiatives shows initiative and drive. Documenting your achievements and contributions can help you make a strong case for promotion. Employers value employees who take ownership and drive results. Demonstrating a track record of success is key to advancing your career.
Similar CPA Careers & Titles
Certified Management Accountant (CMA)
A Certified Management Accountant specializes in financial management and strategy within organizations. CMAs focus on budgeting, performance management, and cost control. They often work in corporate finance or management accounting roles. The CMA credential demonstrates expertise in both accounting and business management. This role is similar to a CPA but with a greater emphasis on internal financial processes.
Certified Internal Auditor (CIA)
A Certified Internal Auditor is an expert in evaluating and improving internal controls, risk management, and governance processes. CIAs conduct audits within organizations to ensure compliance and efficiency. They often work in internal audit departments or as consultants. The CIA credential is recognized globally and is highly valued in the field of internal auditing. This role overlaps with CPAs who specialize in audit and assurance services.
Chartered Accountant (CA)
A Chartered Accountant is a professional accountant recognized in many countries outside the United States. CAs perform similar functions to CPAs, including auditing, tax, and advisory services. They may work in public practice, industry, or government. The CA designation is internationally recognized and respected. This role is equivalent to a CPA in many jurisdictions.
Enrolled Agent (EA)
An Enrolled Agent is a tax professional authorized by the U.S. Department of the Treasury to represent taxpayers before the IRS. EAs specialize in tax preparation, planning, and representation. They often work in tax firms or as independent consultants. The EA credential focuses exclusively on taxation, whereas CPAs have broader accounting expertise. This role is similar to CPAs who specialize in tax services.
Financial Analyst
A financial analyst evaluates financial data, prepares reports, and provides insights to support business decisions. They may work in corporate finance, investment analysis, or management accounting. Financial analysts use accounting and analytical skills to assess performance and forecast trends. This role is similar to CPAs who focus on financial analysis and planning. Financial analysts play a key role in helping organizations achieve their financial goals.