Accounting Technician Salary: Average Pay, Factors, and Career Outlook
An Accounting Technician plays a crucial role in financial management, assisting with bookkeeping, financial reporting, and transaction processing. Salaries for Accounting Technicians vary depending on experience, location, industry, and certifications. This guide provides an in-depth look at Accounting Technician salaries, job growth, and factors that influence earnings.
What Is the Average Salary of an Accounting Technician?
The average salary for an Accounting Technician in the United States ranges from $46,552 to $70,793 per year. This variation depends on factors such as geographical location, employer, and level of experience.
1. National Average Salary
โ Salary.com: $46,552 per year, with a typical range between $41,851 and $52,520.
โ SalaryExpert.com: $70,793 per year, with an hourly rate of $34.04.
โ Indeed.com: Reports an average hourly wage of $24.06, ranging from $17.60 to $32.88 per hour.
2. Salary by Experience Level
โ Entry-Level (0-2 Years): $40,000 – $50,000 per year.
โ Mid-Level (3-5 Years): $50,000 – $60,000 per year.
โ Senior-Level (6+ Years): $60,000 – $75,000+ per year.
Salary Differences by Location
Salaries for Accounting Technicians vary significantly by location due to cost of living and demand for accounting professionals.
โ California: $80,183 per year (13% above the national average).
โ Texas: $60,000 – $70,000 per year.
โ New York: $75,000+ per year, especially in corporate finance roles.
โ Kent, WA: Offers one of the highest hourly wages at $36.72 per hour.
Highest-Paying Employers for Accounting Technicians
Certain organizations and industries offer higher-than-average salaries for Accounting Technicians.
โ U.S. Department of Defense: $60,417 per year (27% above the national average).
โ Federal Government Agencies: Salary range between $50,000 – $69,000 per year.
โ Private Corporations & Financial Firms: Higher salaries with bonuses and benefits.
Factors That Influence an Accounting Technicianโs Salary
1. Education & Certifications
โ A Bachelorโs degree in Accounting or Finance can lead to higher pay.
โ Certifications like Certified Bookkeeper (CB) or Certified Accounting Technician (CAT) increase salary potential.
โ Proficiency in QuickBooks, SAP, or other accounting software can improve job prospects.
2. Industry of Employment
โ Government Agencies & Defense: Higher salaries due to job stability and benefits.
โ Corporate Accounting: Competitive salaries with potential bonuses.
โ Nonprofits & Small Businesses: Lower salaries but flexible work environments.
3. Skills & Specializations
โ Advanced Excel skills and financial reporting expertise lead to better pay.
โ Experience in payroll processing, tax preparation, and financial auditing increases earnings.
Job Growth & Career Outlook for Accounting Technicians
โ Projected job growth (2022-2032): 4% increase in demand for accounting professionals.
โ Companies seek Accounting Technicians for financial compliance, reporting, and auditing.
โ Experience as an Accounting Technician can lead to roles like Senior Accountant, Financial Analyst, or Controller.
How to Increase Your Salary as an Accounting Technician
โ Earn an accounting certification (CPA, CB, CMA).
โ Gain experience in financial analysis, payroll, and tax compliance.
โ Specialize in high-demand industries like finance, healthcare, and government accounting.
โ Develop proficiency in accounting software (QuickBooks, Xero, SAP, Oracle).
Final Thoughts
The salary of an Accounting Technician depends on various factors, including experience, location, certifications, and industry. While entry-level positions may start around $40,000 per year, experienced professionals in high-paying industries can earn $70,000 or more.
By gaining certifications, learning advanced accounting software, and specializing in financial reporting or compliance, Accounting Technicians can significantly increase their earning potential and advance their careers.
