According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the accounting sector is booming. Nationally, they expect that the sector will grow 18 percent through 2016, adding 230,000 jobs, which makes accounting one of the fastest-growing job categories in the nation. Florida is on par with that national trend, and the BLS predicts similar growth in the state.
Accounting is a vast field, and there are many career paths that professionals can pursue. In general, accounting is divided into three major categories: public accounting, management accounting, and government. Though duties and requirements vary, accountants are typically responsible for recording, examining and auditing tax records, and preparing tax returns and financial statements. Deciding which field of accounting is best for you will depend upon your personal preferences and work style.
Public Accounting
Public accountants can be found in firms of all sizes that provide accounting services to individuals, businesses, nonprofits, and government agencies. Their jobs may include preparing financial statements, conducting tax consulting services, financial analysis, and more. Most public accountants have typically achieved their license as a Certified Public Accountant (CPA).
Public accountants often have to work face-to-face with their clients, exposing them to a variety of people each day. While some people enjoy this level of contact, others may not, and therefore might look into other lines of accounting work. Public accountants can also move into private corporations as they become more experienced, rising through the ranks as controllers or CFOs.
Private Accounting
Private accountants work on staff at private corporations, typically under the controller’s office. They work on monthly and annual financial statements, prepare reports and tax forms, and conduct internal audits. Private accountants are also heavily involved in budgets and forecasts, mergers and acquisitions, and preparing a company to attract new investors. Oftentimes, CPAs move into private accounting and climb the corporate ladder as they become more exposed to the financial operations of the organization.
Government and Nonprofit Accounting
If public accounting or private accounting are not interesting to prospective accountants, government and nonprofit work may be. Nonprofit accountants help keep charitable organizations compliant in terms of their finances and taxes. Government accounts can work for local, state, or federal agencies as accountants or auditors. Some may choose to become forensic accountants, working for law enforcement agencies.
Where the Accounting Jobs Are in South Florida
If you are a professional accountant in South Florida looking for new opportunities, reach out to a recruiter at CERS today. We work with companies throughout the region who are seeking to connect with talented accounting professionals at all levels. Whether you’re looking to make a step up the ladder, or you want to make a lateral move, we’d love to talk to you about the ways in which we can help you reach your career goals.
