What is the job description of a bookkeeper?

Job descriptions for bookkeepers typically seek out a person who is consistent, accurate, and knows how to minimize errors. It is indispensable that a job description for a bookkeeper will include knowledge of accounting and an understanding of how to use accounting software systems.

In larger businesses, a bookkeeper is responsible for overseeing and reconciling hundreds of financial transactions. This is typically done with the assistance of various software systems, and for this reason, technology literacy is incredibly valuable for the profession.

A few other common skills and job duties on a bookkeeper job description would include the following:

• Maintain an accurate record of financial transactions

• Update and maintain the general ledger

• Reconciliation of entries into the accounting system

• Recording of debits and credits

• Maintain the trial balance by a reconciliation of general ledgers

• Account reconciliation to assert the accuracy of transactions

• Use knowledge of local laws to comply with reporting requirements

• Monitor any variances from the projected budget

• Understand accounting best practices

• Knowledge of IFRS, U.S GAAP, or another accounting framework

• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel

• Knowledge of XERO, Quickbooks, Zoho, Fresh Books, or other applications