Explore jobs
Find specific jobs
Explore careers
Explore professions
Best companies
Explore companies
Inventory accountant job growth summary. After extensive research, interviews, and analysis, Zippia's data science team found that:
The projected inventory accountant job growth rate is 6% from 2018-2028.
About 81,800 new jobs for inventory accountants are projected over the next decade.
Inventory accountant salaries have increased 8% for inventory accountants in the last 5 years.
There are over 26,787 inventory accountants currently employed in the United States.
There are 56,492 active inventory accountant job openings in the US.
The average inventory accountant salary is $59,285.
| Year | # of jobs | % of population |
|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 26,787 | 0.01% |
| 2020 | 25,894 | 0.01% |
| 2019 | 26,018 | 0.01% |
| 2018 | 25,596 | 0.01% |
| 2017 | 25,211 | 0.01% |
| Year | Avg. salary | Hourly rate | % Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | $59,285 | $28.50 | +2.8% |
| 2024 | $57,665 | $27.72 | +1.5% |
| 2023 | $56,819 | $27.32 | +1.7% |
| 2022 | $55,892 | $26.87 | +1.8% |
| 2021 | $54,925 | $26.41 | +1.4% |
| Rank | State | Population | # of jobs | Employment/ 1000ppl |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | District of Columbia | 693,972 | 189 | 27% |
| 2 | Delaware | 961,939 | 127 | 13% |
| 3 | Massachusetts | 6,859,819 | 816 | 12% |
| 4 | Colorado | 5,607,154 | 656 | 12% |
| 5 | Minnesota | 5,576,606 | 641 | 11% |
| 6 | Connecticut | 3,588,184 | 388 | 11% |
| 7 | Iowa | 3,145,711 | 341 | 11% |
| 8 | Illinois | 12,802,023 | 1,281 | 10% |
| 9 | Virginia | 8,470,020 | 846 | 10% |
| 10 | Maryland | 6,052,177 | 597 | 10% |
| 11 | Wisconsin | 5,795,483 | 568 | 10% |
| 12 | Utah | 3,101,833 | 323 | 10% |
| 13 | New Hampshire | 1,342,795 | 140 | 10% |
| 14 | Rhode Island | 1,059,639 | 111 | 10% |
| 15 | California | 39,536,653 | 3,533 | 9% |
| 16 | Arizona | 7,016,270 | 619 | 9% |
| 17 | Tennessee | 6,715,984 | 612 | 9% |
| 18 | Missouri | 6,113,532 | 555 | 9% |
| 19 | Montana | 1,050,493 | 99 | 9% |
| 20 | Washington | 7,405,743 | 595 | 8% |
| Rank | City | # of jobs | Employment/ 1000ppl | Avg. salary |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Naperville | 5 | 3% | $50,968 |
| 2 | Duluth | 1 | 3% | $62,293 |
| 3 | Baytown | 1 | 1% | $55,663 |
| 4 | Frederick | 1 | 1% | $59,148 |
| 5 | Johns Creek | 1 | 1% | $62,288 |
| 6 | Austin | 1 | 0% | $55,808 |
| 7 | Durham | 1 | 0% | $54,413 |
| 8 | Jacksonville | 1 | 0% | $54,959 |
| 9 | Phoenix | 1 | 0% | $56,011 |
University of Central Arkansas
Kent State University
University of Memphis
SUNY College at Old Westbury
Pace University
Henderson State University
Minnesota State University - Mankato
Skyline College
Western Kentucky University
Oakland University
University of Missouri - St Louis
Muhlenberg College
Eastern Oregon University
Dr. Stephanie Watson PhD, CPA: Skills that are on the rise are those related to automation, data analytics, and artificial intelligence, some used by accountants, some used by our clients. As accountants, we don't need to be computer programmers to be successful, but we do need the ability to understand how tasks are completed without these technologies and with them, and how our role is different with these technologies in place. Because new applications are constantly being developed, accountants need to be open to and comfortable with learning new software. However, no technology in the next decade is going to be able to replace the skills that have always been important for accountants including communication skills (the ability to convey technical concepts and processes to someone who may not be as familiar with them as you are), critical thinking and professional skepticism (being able to think beyond what is presented to see the bigger picture), and Excel skills or related tools for data organization and analysis.
Scott Miller CPA, CIA, CFE, MAcc: Be up-to-date; never out-of-date. As technological advances continue over time, Accountants will be expected to keep pace. The Accounting profession has successfully adapted to change throughout its history, and accountants will need to continue to adapt. It is critical for accountants to remain as trusted business advisors who are capable of understanding and auditing the latest technology that their own firms and clients implement. Traditionally important skills such as critical thinking, empathy, and effective communication are necessary skills today and will remain so in the future.
University of Memphis
Accounting And Related Services
Rita Green Ed.D.: Current students should consider anchoring their education with a strong minor, which can be fulfilled with elective courses, which already make up a certain percentage of required credits for an undergraduate degree. It will also be important for accounting students to acquire and maintain competencies in data analytics. Accounting curriculums are being updated to respond to this necessary skillset.
Patrick O'Brien: No matter the field of accounting that one goes into, each one has its own type of “busy season”. These busy seasons generally require an accountant to work more hours than a typical 40-hour work week for a set period of time. While the hours can be intense, they are usually predictable, so the accountant can plan accordingly. In terms of what people usually like about being an accountant, there are a number of factors. The main one is that it is a career (rather than a job) with a clear path for advancement and promotion (generally, speaking). With this, there comes a level of career stability that many other professions and jobs cannot provide. Additionally, it has often been said that the accounting profession is “recession proof”. During poor economic periods, accountants tend to experience less career disturbances than other professions. Lastly, every business needs an accountant! This allows accountants the opportunity to break into any industry or company that they desire. Many professionals begin as accountants within an organization and have incredible upward mobility (whether as accountants or not). Accountants see most aspects and operations of an organization, so this knowledge and understanding makes them excellent top-level executives.
Amir Moeini Chaghervand PhD, CMA: In the next 3-5 years, I believe skills related to data analytics, technology proficiency, and communication will become more important in the accounting field. As technology advances, accountants will need to be proficient in data analysis and interpretation, as well as effective communication to convey complex financial information.
Dr. Barbara Farrell CPA: Pass the CPA exam before you start working. That will almost certainly earn you a bonus and put you ahead of your peers.
Get additional certifications such as Microsoft Office certifications, Certified Fraud Examiner, and Certified Internal Auditor to name a few.
Be willing to volunteer for additional assignments.
Network within the firm and join professional organizations such as AICPA, State Society of CPAs etc
Dr. Barbara Farrell CPA: The field of public accounting is changing rapidly. Technology has become an integral part of the profession in tax, audit and consulting. It would be my suggestion to all students to use any elective credits within their degree program to become familiar with technology. In addition, excellent communication skills (oral and written) are critical. Use your liberal arts class electives to take communications and public speaking classes.
Once you enter the profession, keep learning! Whenever you are offered the opportunity to take a course, learn a new skill, or enhance your knowledge, take advantage of it!
Whatever firm you join will likely have social events and get-togethers. Go! Go into the office as much as possible. Network! Get to know those you work with to make connections for your future.
Be careful what you post on any social media platform! Pictures and postings can have repercussions.
Finally, get your CPA license ASAP! DO not wait. Start taking the exam while you are in school. Once you start working, your time to study is limited!
Amy Kass CPA, MBA: The three skills I think that will become more important and prevalent in the next three to five years in the accounting industry will include: technical skills, regulatory knowledge, and written and oral communication skills. The technical skills and the regulatory knowledge skills areas are constantly changing, so there's always something new to learn that will benefit your role in the industry.
Kirsten Cook:
Ten years ago, I would've said "soft skills" like verbal and written communication. Five years ago, data analytics was all the rage. I don't believe these skills have become any less important; rather, we must continue to layer on new skills to match the changing professional environment. Today, I encourage students to be technologically agile. For example, if you learned to use Alteryx in a class, but your new employer uses PowerBI, recognize the similarities between these programs and build on your existing knowledge to master the new tool. Also, stay abreast of developments in accounting by not only reading the business press but also by connecting with experts on social media like LinkedIn.
Kirsten Cook: In accounting (like most other fields), I hope that graduates "began their careers" long before crossing the stage at commencement. That is, most college and universities offer a wealth of opportunities for students to interact with employers throughout their college careers. When an employer speaks in a class, holds an informational session, or tables at a career fair, make a point to introduce yourself, ask informed questions, and generally leave a favorable impression in that employer's mind. Also, if possible, complete one or more internships while in college to understand the culture of professional accounting before your first day of full-time employment after graduation.
Kirsten Cook:
Ten years ago, I would've said "soft skills" like verbal and written communication. Five years ago, data analytics was all the rage. I don't believe these skills have become any less important; rather, we must continue to layer on new skills to match the changing professional environment. Today, I encourage students to be technologically agile. For example, if you learned to use Alteryx in a class, but your new employer uses PowerBI, recognize the similarities between these programs and build on your existing knowledge to master the new tool. Also, stay abreast of developments in accounting by not only reading the business press but also by connecting with experts on social media like LinkedIn.
Lisa Bell MBA, CPA: Continuously improving on existing skills and learning new skills will set you apart from your counterparts. I used to tell students to pick an area and become a master. Now I tell them to seek certifications in different areas so they can be more well-rounded. I advise them to figure out the knowledge gaps in their organization. Then fill that gap for the organization and ask to be compensated for bringing value
Lisa Bell MBA, CPA: If students are unsure what type of accounting they would like to pursue, I advise them to apply at small to mid-size public accounting firms. Usually, they will get exposure to various types of work such as tax, audit, and consulting. Also, they are more likely to work with a wide range of industries. The experience provides new accountants with opportunities to learn where they fit!
Lisa Bell MBA, CPA: Artificial Intelligence(AI) isn't changing accounting, but it is changing how accounting is performed. Organizations will need to learn how to leverage AI to decrease redundant data entry and increase data analysis. Effective use of AI can lead to significant increases in efficiencies which allow organizations to have a more competitive edge
Minnesota State University - Mankato
Accounting And Related Services
Byron Pike Ph.D., CPA: Accounting is a technical discipline where one must be a knowledge expert and have the ability to utilize technology to enhance their proficiency. To be successful, one needs more than an expertise in a particular software, program, or technology. The profession has and will continue to utilize cutting edge tools/technology to be more efficient. Thus, one should develop a background and mindset that is willing and able to adapt, change, and learn/utilize new tools as they are developed. With that said, accountants are technical experts, trusted advisors, and those with the greatest knowable about the financial performance of an organization. None of this information is of value unless individuals can communicate this information to decision makers. The ability network, communicate, and articulate one’s knowledge in a way that is understandable to non-accountants is critical for success in this profession.
Byron Pike Ph.D., CPA: There is no better time to be joining the accounting profession. However, if this is a career that you are passionate about, you should be on an academic and professional track that leads to Certified Public Accountant (CPA) licensure. There are many certifications available to accountants. The CPA designation is largely considered the top credential for accountants. CPAs have more job prospects, receive higher compensation, and report greater job satisfaction compared to non-CPA accountants. The CPA profession was extremely popular for baby boomers. As these boomers continue to retire at high rates, there is a huge need for CPAs today and into the foreseeable future. If you enter the accounting profession and become a CPA, you will have unlimited opportunities across all functions of the business for the rest of your career. Accounting is the functional language of business, and a background in it will yield dividends throughout your entire career.
Ms. Leah Parker-Roth 15, CPA: One common criticism of accounting is the long hours and the demanding 'busy season.' However, based on my own experience working in public accounting, although there were long hours, I had the opportunity to work with various clients and was able to learn many skills, including sales tax, payroll preparation, financial statement preparation, bookkeeping, and tax return preparation.
Ms. Leah Parker-Roth 15, CPA: Accounting is an excellent field to enter right now because it isn't going anywhere. Even with advancements in artificial intelligence and automation, clients still need accountants to interpret complex tax laws and regulations that are constantly evolving. Accounting is the language of business and is a valuable skill to have. Moreover, accountants examine financial information to provide useful insights to clients, enabling them to make well-informed business decisions.
Ms. Leah Parker-Roth 15, CPA: Due to the broad nature of accounting, it is challenging to describe an accountant's typical day-to-day life accurately. However, this is a good thing because there are various specific areas within accounting, such as public accounting and governmental accounting. Accounting professionals generally expect to perform a standard set of tasks and utilize specific skills, including analytical skills and effective communication with colleagues and clients. While anyone can gather and organize data, accountants possess the expertise to analyze and communicate the data. Accountants perform specific tasks, including preparing financial statements and tax returns, payroll processing, maintaining accounting systems, and providing consulting services.
Abbie Daly PhD, CPA: Accounting is often referred to as the "language of business" because accountants communicate financial information. So communication is an integral part of an accountant's day. For example, auditors and tax preparers meet with their clients to understand their financial information, and accountants at organizations prepare and communicate financial information to guide strategic decisions. To facilitate these communications, accountants analyze and interpret many data points. For example, in auditing the revenue recognized by a company, an auditor would examine the underlying transactions, contracts, and supporting documentation.
Abbie Daly PhD, CPA: Accounting has long been an excellent field to enter for those interested in any aspect of business - understanding a business requires speaking the language. However, now is an especially excellent time to enter the profession, as opportunities are plentiful with more accounting positions available than there are accountants. Further, rapid technological development is affecting the role of the accountant, with routine accounting tasks being automated as platforms such as artificial intelligence and blockchain become more widespread. This will increase accountants' efficiency so that accountants can spend their time on more value-added advisory and analytical tasks. Those entering the accounting profession with these skills will have boundless opportunities available to them. At UW-Whitewater, students acquire these skills by taking classes on accounting analytics, artificial intelligence, and blockchain.
Abbie Daly PhD, CPA: There are so many career options for those with an accounting degree, that there is something for everyone to like. Further, accountants are consistently in demand, so accountants enjoy job security and good income. Accounting is often stereotyped as being a dull profession, but that couldn't be further from the truth. Accountants work in different industries and have different specializations so that it is an incredibly interesting career. Every organization needs an accountant, so someone with an accounting degree could be an accountant for a professional sports franchise or investigate business crimes as a forensic accountant for the FBI. Further, accounting is a noble career path for anyone wanting a career with purpose - ensuring that financial information is communicated with integrity supports a prosperous society.
Skyline College
Accounting And Related Services
Tony Viertel: This answer to this question depends on if an account is
working in public accounting or private industry. Public accountants perform the following
tasks:
a. Client communication: Public accountants frequently communicate with clients,
either in person, via phone calls, or through email. They discuss financial
matters, provide project updates, address client concerns, and gather necessary
information to complete tasks.
b. Auditing: For clients requiring audit services, public accountants conduct audits
to verify the accuracy and completeness of financial records. This involves
examining documents, conducting interviews, testing internal controls, and
assessing compliance with relevant regulations and accounting standards.
c. Tax preparation and planning: Public accountants assist clients with tax planning
strategies to minimize tax liabilities while ensuring compliance with tax laws and
regulations. They prepare and file tax returns for individuals, businesses, and
organizations.
d. Consulting Services: Public accountants offer consulting services to clients
seeking advice on various financial matters, such as budgeting, forecasting,
mergers and acquisitions, risk management, and internal controls improvement.
Accountants in private industry perform the following tasks:
a. Financial reporting: Private industry accountants are responsible for preparing
financial statements such as balance sheets, income statements, and cash flow
statements. These reports provide a snapshot of the company's financial health
and performance over a specific period.
b. Budgeting and forecasting: Accountants collaborate with management to develop
annual budgets and forecasts for revenue, expenses, and cash flow. They
monitor actual performance against budgeted figures, analyze variances, and
recommend adjustments to achieve financial goals.
c. Cost accounting: Accountants in private industry analyze the costs associated
with producing goods or services. They calculate product costs, track inventory
levels, and identify opportunities to reduce costs and improve efficiency.
d. Internal controls: Accountants design, implement, and monitor internal control
procedures to safeguard company assets, prevent fraud, and ensure compliance
with regulations and company policies. They may conduct internal audits to
assess control measures' effectiveness and identify improvement areas.
Tony Viertel: We are looking for insights into what Accounting majors can expect at their jobs.
Tony Viertel: Stability and demand: Accounting is a fundamental function for businesses across
industries. There will always be a demand for skilled accountants to manage financial
records, ensure regulatory compliance, and provide strategic financial advice.
Diverse career opportunities: Accountants can work in various sectors such as public
accounting, corporate accounting, government agencies, non-profit organizations, and
academia. This diversity allows for flexibility and the opportunity to explore different
career paths.
Professional growth: The accounting profession offers numerous opportunities for
advancement, including obtaining certifications such as Certified Public Accountant
(CPA), Certified Management Accountant (CMA), or Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA).
These certifications can open doors to higher-paying positions and increased
responsibilities.
Intellectual Challenge: Accounting involves problem-solving, analysis, and interpretation
of financial data. It requires critical thinking skills and attention to detail.
Western Kentucky University
Accounting And Related Services
Stacy Bibelhauser Ph.D.: While obtaining CPA certification is not necessary for all accounting positions, it does set you up with some of the best opportunities to get high paying starting salaries. It's also important to negotiate or try to negotiate a higher salary than is in the original offer and it never hurts to ask.
Stacy Bibelhauser Ph.D.: Do your very best on every task you are asked to do and do not act as if a task is beneath you. You do not know who is watching, and your attitude and work ethic on each and every job will be noticed by those who are around you.
Stacy Bibelhauser Ph.D.: The integration of data analytics with accounting-related jobs is already prevalent and will continue to impact the field. I also believe a good working knowledge of cybersecurity practices and policies will become essential in all areas of accounting.
Oakland University
Finance And Financial Management Services
Liang Fu Ph.D.: Job opportunities and career growth trajectory.
Liang Fu Ph.D.: Really depends on what they do.
Liang Fu Ph.D.: Dislike: accounting is not for everyone, degree requirements/licensing requirements can be challenging. And sometimes, long work hours are required.
University of Missouri - St Louis
Accounting And Related Services
Thomas Kozloski PhD, CPA, CGMA: This is an excellent time to enter the accounting profession! Not only because technology continues to remove some of the more mechanical tasks that used to be performed by a person, but also because there is an extreme shortage of accounting-educated personnel across the country, especially those seeking to enter the profession. This fact is increasing salaries and benefits as hiring companies compete to hire new professionals.
Thomas Kozloski PhD, CPA, CGMA: Accountants use their business and accounting knowledge and skills to assemble and analyze financial and operational data and communicate that information to various internal and external stakeholders of the entity they work for. This includes preparing financial reports including financial statements. Accountants may also work in the tax profession preparing tax reports and returns, and the auditing profession where they conduct procedures and tests to provide assurance that financial information is fairly stated.
Thomas Kozloski PhD, CPA, CGMA: This is an excellent time to enter the accounting profession! Not only because technology continues to remove some of the more mechanical tasks that used to be performed by a person, but also because there is an extreme shortage of accounting-educated personnel across the country, especially those seeking to enter the profession. This fact is increasing salaries and benefits as hiring companies compete to hire new professionals.
Ermira Mazziotta MBA, CPA, CFE: Understand what is one skill that is needed, example cyber security, understanding and utilizing Ai and invest on learning that skill. Become the person with the answers that helps your team reach their goals.
Ermira Mazziotta MBA, CPA, CFE: Understand and know how to utilize technology. Learn as much as possible.
Ermira Mazziotta MBA, CPA, CFE: Accounting students are in a very good position to land well paying jobs because of the demand. Most important advice I would give is to continue to learn and grow and invest in your professional growth by taking classes, working on different clients from different industries and most importantly network. If you have an option to work in the office, do that instead of working remotely. Making those face to face connections will help propel and grow your career.
Amber Lawson CPA: Graduates beginning their careers in accounting need to continue to be willing to learn and easy to teach. The technical skills that are taught in the classroom are incredibly important and crucial to passing the CPA exam, but much of the necessary knowledge to succeed in the industry will come from on-the-job, in-the-moment training, so learning doesn't stop when you exit the classroom! I would also emphasize, given the importance of the license, that recent graduates should position themselves to take and pass all sections of the Certified Public Accountant ("CPA") exam as soon as possible. This may mean that the first year of your career is spent juggling both working and studying for the exam, but statistics and anecdotal evidence alike support the notion that the sooner you push towards accomplishing this goal, the more likely you are to achieve it!
Amber Lawson CPA: First and foremost, meeting the necessary requirements for your CPA license is crucial for maximizing your salary potential in any field of accounting. Becoming a CPA not only elevates your earning potential within your starting position, but also creates mobility should you choose to shift your career path. The license signals that you are truly a professional and is a recognizable badge of excellence and the effort you expended to achieve it. Additionally, regardless of where you start your accounting career, become an expert. Whether that is within a particular industry or in regards to a particular methodology, learn whatever you can. Again, this allows you to not only elevate yourself in your existing role, but gives you more value (in tandem with your CPA license) as a professional should you choose to change.
Amber Lawson CPA: Two skill sets that are going to continue to gain importance in the field in the next 3-5 years will be the knowledge of and openness to using artificial intelligence and data analytics tools and a well-honed set of soft skills. While those two things may seem counterintuitive, they each will have their place in the industry. Undeniably, technological advancement will continue to change the approach to data-driven fields, like accounting. Being positioned to harness that technology to create efficiency in combination with your technical knowledge will propel you in your career and allow you to adapt to those changes. In regards to soft-skills, as we see more of the "data processing" aspect of the field being completed with efficient forms of technology, the job of the professional will need to change. Accountants, in particular, will need to fulfill a trusted business advisor role more so than a data input role. Being able to think critically, communicate efficiently, evoke confidence and collaboration among your teams and your clients, and just generally "humanize" the financial information industry will be crucial for being successful in the long term.
Ermira Mazziotta: Understand and know how to utilize technology. Learn as much as possible.
Ermira Mazziotta: Understand what is one skill that is needed, example cyber security, understanding and utilizing Ai and invest on learning that skill. Become the person with the answers that helps your team reach their goals.
Ermira Mazziotta: Accounting students are in a very good position to land well paying jobs because of the demand. Most important advice I would give is to continue to learn and grow and invest in your professional growth by taking classes, working on different clients from different industries and most importantly network. If you have an option to work in the office, do that instead of working remotely. Making those face to face connections will help propel and grow your career.
Eastern Oregon University
Business/Commerce
Dr. Mohamed Abualhaija: In the corporate world, soft skills are critical, particularly for those starting careers in accounting, business, or similar fields. These skills help people deal with diverse situations at work and communicate with others more effectively. Communication, teamwork, problem-solving, leadership, flexibility, and emotional intelligence are all examples of essential soft skills.
Dr. Mohamed Abualhaija: Accounting students and graduates possess competencies that make them highly effective and trainable in related roles. Their attention to detail and analytical skills allow them to address challenges holistically and examine the wider influence on multiple components. They also have a comprehensive knowledge of various software and technologies, which makes it easier for them to adjust to changes in the workplace and advancements in technology. Moreover, accounting graduates and students demonstrate their practical knowledge and problem-solving skills by applying academic concepts to real-world scenarios. Employers can immensely profit from their capacity to handle challenges and thrive on difficult tasks. They have a unique combination of soft skills and technical knowledge that make them especially prepared for success in different business and commerce sittings.
Dr. Mohamed Abualhaija: Soft skills like teamwork, leadership, problem-solving, communication, and flexibility are also essential for launching a successful career after earning an accounting, business, or commerce degree. While teamwork entails collaboration, consideration for the views of others, and conflict resolution, effective communication entails the clear expression of ideas and attentive listening. Problem-solving skills require critical thinking and creativity to address complicated situations, but leadership traits require initiative, motivation, and accountability. Adaptability is essential in managing the dynamic corporate world, which necessitates flexibility, readiness to change, and resilience. In order to succeed in a variety of business settings and stand out in the competitive job market, it is imperative that these soft skills be developed through real-world experiences, feedback, and ongoing education.