The work

Accounts clerks keep accurate financial records, and check and help prepare accounts for all types of businesses. They may also be known as finance clerks or book-keepers.

In larger organisations, they may specialise in one area of accounting like sales or purchase ledger, payroll or credit control. They also often provide administrative support to professional accountants. Book-keepers working for small businesses combine these roles, and may also bank takings and balance petty cash.

Their duties can vary widely according to their level of responsibility and experience, and whether or not they specialise in one area of accounting, but the work typically includes:

• balancing accounts (double entry book-keeping)
• processing sales invoices, receipts and payments
• preparing statements showing income and expenditure
• completing VAT returns
• checking that accounts are accurate
• preparing wages and processing expenses claims, if dealing with payroll
• helping to prepare final accounts, such as profit and loss accounts and balance sheets.
• Most organisations have computerised accounts systems using a variety of spreadsheets, databases and specialised software.

Hours and Environment

Most accounts clerks work normal office hours Monday to Friday. They may need to work extra hours at busy times, for example when they are compiling end-of-year returns.

There are opportunities for part-time work and job sharing. Temporary work is often available.

Skills and Interests

Accounts clerks need:

• to be confident in dealing with figures
• to be able to work quickly and accurately - mistakes can have serious consequences
• good concentration and attention to detail
• a logical, methodical approach to work
• an interest in business and finance
• ability to work to strict deadlines
• to be able to work unsupervised
• to be honest, discreet and trustworthy - they deal with money and confidential information.

Entry

There is no upper age limit, and mature candidates are often welcomed. There are no minimum entry requirements but applicants should have a good standard of general education and must be confident in dealing with figures. Some employers or colleges may ask for exam passes, particularly in maths and English. Business studies and IT are also useful subjects. Training is normally on the job. It may be supplemented by in-house courses, distance learning, day-release or evening classes.

Training

As a trainee accounts clerk you would be trained on the job training whilst helping more experienced staff. Employers may also allow you to study for relevant qualifications whilst working, such as:

Pitman qualifications in Book-keeping and Accounts, Computerised Accounts and Accounting.

Opportunities

Accounts clerks are found in all kinds of organisations, including local authorities, commerce, industry, health care providers and voluntary organisations.

There are opportunities for self-employment, working on a freelance basis.

Annual Income

Further information

International Association of Book-Keepers (IAB) http://www.iab.org.uk

Institute of Certified Book-keepers (ICB) http://www.book-keepers.org

Association of Accounting Technicians (AAT) http://www.aat.co.uk