Piedmont Technical College

College Resources

Career Tracks: Accounting

The Accounting major classifies and verifies numerical data, develops and maintains financial records following guidelines established by the company. In small organizations, may do some general office work.

In large organization, specializes in one type of activity, such as payroll or accounts payable. Works in every type of business, as well as government and nonprofit organizations. Duties vary with type of organization.

Duties

Graduates in this field may be required to:

  • process accounts receivable

  • prepare payroll

  • process accounts payable

  • prepare customer invoices

  • assist in general accounting

Working Conditions

Graduates in this field commonly experience:

  • work inside; office

  • work in cooperation with others

  • work under little direct supervision

  • complete considerable paperwork

  • work under stress to meet deadlines

  • work in pleasant, well-lighted business offices

Physical Demands

  • sitting a great deal
  • generally moving about an office environment
  • some light lifting (files, etc.)

Characteristics & Temperament

Graduates in this field should have:

  • aptitude for working with numbers, accuracy,
  • good communication skills in speaking and writing
  • concentration, attention to detail
  • ability to work with people; ability to deal with diverse population
  • finger dexterity and eye-hand coordination helpful for using computers and calculators
  • maturity; ability to accept responsibility
  • honesty, good judgment in handling confidential information.
  • self-discipline; self-motivation
  • flexibility; ability to change from one task to another without losing efficiency or composure
  • ability to make decisions
  • organizational skills
  • ability to work under pressure

Employment Outlook

Employment statistics for 2009 - 2011 PTC graduates, who found jobs in this field, are as follows:

  • salary average:  $24,470.00 per year
  • salary range: $17,5000-39,000 per year
  • 63% placement rate
  • entry level positions: office manager, assistant office manager, general office worker
  • opportunity to move up within an office
  • employment in cities and towns of all sizes

Employers

Some recent graduates have found work at:

Packaging Corporation of America