Government Accountant and Auditor Careers

Job Summary:
Government accountants are employed by the government departments and public sector companies. The work involves maintaining records of public accounts, government agencies, auditing private enterprises and individuals subject to government regulations. They maintain the books of the government and control its finances. They are employed by Federal, State and local governments in various capacities like IRS agents, financial accountants, budget administrators,etc.

Qualification:
Four years bachelor's degree plus Certified Public Accountant (CPA) certification conferred by the AICPA.

The estimated number of accountants and auditors in 2003 were around 1.2 Million.

Salary Range:
On an average, accountants with up to 1year of experience earned about $ 40,000, senior accountants earned about $ 65,000, Managers earned about $ 75.000. Salaries depend on size and complexity of the job, location, education level and professional qualifications.

Prospects:
There are excellent prospects for Government Auditors as Governments are increasingly worried about the various financial scandals that are rocking the country and auditors are much in demand. However, accountants are not much in demand in the Public Sector. Accountants though can easily shift occupations and work as Management Accountants or Internal Auditors.