What they do
Accounts clerks manage and maintain the financial accounts for a business or organisation. They perform accounting duties such as setting budgets, billing clients, expenditure management and payroll. Other tasks may include reconciling account statements, reviewing invoices, checking for any discrepancies and writing financial reports. They also manage relationships with clients, and address queries regarding payments and invoicing. Accounts clerks usually specialise in either accounts payable or accounts receivable, but will sometimes perform both roles.
Working conditions
Accounts clerks may work for a variety of different businesses in a wide range of industries. In larger firms they will usually work as part of a team in a specific accounting branch of the institution.
They usually work in an office environment, and may need to work longer hours during peak financial periods such as the end of the financial year.
Tools and technologies
Accounts clerks perform most of their tasks on a computer. They use specialist financial and business software to record, monitor and analyse the financial activities of the business. Spreadsheets and electronic databases are used on a daily basis for maintaining accounting records. Accounts clerks may spend considerable time on the phone or using email.
How do I become one?
Education and training
Apprenticeships and traineeships
As an apprentice or trainee, you are employed and get paid while you complete training towards a nationally recognised qualification. You'll do a combination of on the job training - gaining hands on skills, knowledge and experience - and structured training with a registered training provider such as TAFE.
You can do an apprenticeship or traineeship if you are a school leaver, re-entering the workforce or as an adult or mature aged person wishing to change careers. You can even begin your apprenticeship or traineeship while you're still at school.