An accounting job requires knowledge and background in maintaining books and balancing numbers. Positions in accounting come in a variety of types and are regularly needed in banks and credit unions.

While some positions may not have accounting in their listing name, they may require significant accounting knowledge and experience nonetheless. Here is a list of some common accounting jobs.

Accounting Clerk

A credit union or bank may need an accounting clerk capable of performing a variety of day-to-day tasks. Depending on the needs of the institution, the applicant will likely be required to have a high school diploma (or equivalent, such as a GED), as well as a minimum of two to five years of work experience in  accounting within a financial institution.

Applicants are typically required to be proficient in typing (alphanumeric and 10-key), using a calculator, a working understanding of internet-connected computer equipment, and fantastic interpersonal skills (for example, clerks should be able to maintain professionalism during face-to-face contact with confused or frustrated customers or members).

In addition, applicants should have a basic understanding of the federal banking system, a working knowledge of Microsoft Word and Excel, the ability to perform a number of mathematical processes, and an understanding of federal regulations and procedures associated with the banking industry.

Duties for this position typically include a wide variety of accounting-related duties. For example, the accounting clerk should be able to assist with:
* A variety of audits (including BSA, OFC, and ACH)

• Internal training
• Monthly budgets
• Cash flow analysis
• ALM

Daily balancing and processing duties may include:

• Payroll postings
• ATM vaults, cash teller drawers, and other vaults
• Loan and other accounts (detail)
• Western Union and wires
• Gift and reloadable card sales, cash advances, money orders, and credit card payments

In addition, accounting job responsibilities include:
* Both balancing ATM machines and, as needed, ordering replenishment cash

• Acceptance and processing of Return check items
• Review and completion of reports (OFAC/FINCEN)
• Reconcilement of general ledger accounts
• Accuracy in fixed asset schedules
• The recording and filing of tax levies, subpoenas, verification, and any other legal documents

The position also requires significant communication skills with members, co-workers, management, and subordinates.

Controller

The accounting job of a controller requires a minimum of five years of previous work experience. Most institutions also pursue candidates who have three or more years of management/supervisory experience. Applicants should have a bachelor’s degree in accounting or finance. While not required, a master’s degree in either of the aforementioned fields and CPA designation are preferred.

The controller oversees the activities of the accounting department for the accurate and timely dissemination of financial management reports including, but not limited to, internal and external monthly financial statements, annual audits, annual budgets and forecasting. They manage all activities regarding accounts payable and accounts receivable functions as well as assuring company income tax compliance taking full advantage of all favorable tax codes.

Financial Analyst

An accounting job in this capacity may require a bachelor’s degree in finance, accounting, or business.  Along with excellent verbal, writing, and interpersonal skills, the ideal candidate is self-motivated, possesses a demonstrated background of success, and a high accuracy with numbers.

This role typically requires experience in the financial analysis of different areas of an organization. This includes operations, asset liability management, forecasting, profitability, budgeting, and various special projects. They also should be able to successfully manage multiple assignments and meet deadlines.

Financial analysts have significant responsibilities and therefore must have solid critical thinking capabilities and a thorough understanding of the industry. A financial analyst must be able to deftly oversee layers of administration while working directly with a wide variety of matters on a day-to-day basis.