What about Salaries?
Accounting salaries are hard to beat. New industries, more sophisticated technologies, and expanding opportunities for business add up to excellent opportunities for accountants. Strong demand for financially savvy accountants and auditors means career stability, competitive salaries, and steady upward growth. See below the average salaries for college graduates in public and private accounting. With CPA certification, add 10 to 15 percent extra to the average starting salaries below.
| Employer | Jr. Level (0 - 3 yrs.) | Sr. Level (4 - 6 yrs.) |
|---|---|---|
| Public Accounting (large firm) | $47,500-$66,250 | $64,000-$83,000 |
| Public Accounting (medium firm) | $41,500-$59,500 | $51,500-$76,250 |
| Public Accounting (small firm) | $40,000-$53,250 | $52,000-$66,500 |
| Corporate Accounting (large co.) | $36,750-$55,000 | $53,500-$71,250 |
| Corporate Accounting (medium co.) | $34,500-$50,500 | $49,250-$63,000 |
(Source: 2008 Robert Half Salary Guide)
Serious earning potential over time gives experienced accountants great job security and earning potential. Here are some examples of upper-level salaries for managers in corporate accounting:
| Position | Large Firm | Small to Medium Firm |
|---|---|---|
| Chief Financial Officer | $177,750-$370,500 | $91,000-$170,250 |
| Corporate Controller | $102,500-$161,500 | $64,250-$117,000 |
| Tax Manager | $88,500-$123,750 | $71,500-$95,250 |
(Source: 2008 Robert Half Salary Guide)