An Accounting Clerk is a professional responsible for performing a range of accounting, bookkeeping, and financial tasks to support the financial functions of an organization. They play a crucial role in maintaining financial records, processing transactions, and assisting with audits and budget preparation.
Education: Some college, no degree
Years in related career: None
On-the-job training: Moderate-term
Projected Growth: -6.2% (negative growth)
Annual job openings: 170 000
Direct AI exposure: 14% of tasks
Potential AI exposure: 49% of tasks
| Income data is from Employment and Social Development Canada's 2025 wage tables. The closest match for this career in Canada’s occupational classification system is Accounting and Related Clerks. According to the wage tables, average income is $52K per year. | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bottom 10% | Bottom 25% | Median (average) | Top 25% | Top 10% |
| $38K per year | $45K per year | $52K per year | $62K per year | $74K per year |
| Compared to other careers: Median is $13K below the national average. | ||||
Accounting Clerks typically work in office settings within the finance departments of corporations, government agencies, non-profits, or accounting firms. Their work is usually full-time, with additional hours during busy periods such as the end of the fiscal year or tax season.
Accounting Clerks are essential to the efficient operation of an organization's financial department. They ensure that financial transactions are accurately recorded and that records are kept up-to-date. This requires attention to detail, good numerical skills, and a solid understanding of accounting principles.
The job often involves using specialized accounting software, spreadsheets, and databases, so proficiency in these technologies is important. Accounting Clerks must also be able to work well under pressure, especially when facing tight deadlines. Good communication skills are necessary for interacting with other departments, vendors, or clients.
This career offers a stable and structured work environment and can be a stepping stone to more advanced accounting or finance roles. It is well-suited to individuals who are organized, detail-oriented, and enjoy working with numbers.
A high school diploma is often required, with most employers preferring candidates who have completed some post-secondary education in accounting or a related field. This could include a certificate, diploma, or associate degree, amounting to 1-2 years of post-secondary education.
Similarity is based on what people in the careers do, what they know, and what they are called. The process of establishing similarity lists is described in this white paper.