Bookkeeper

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Work Tasks

• Keep records of the money a company makes and spends
• Put the records in a ledger or computer
• Create money statements from the records
• Write paychecks for workers and mail bills to customers
• Work indoors in offices for every kind of business
• Use checks, cash, receipts, bills, bank statements, adding machines, and computers

Salary, Size & Growth

• $36,000 average per year ($17.25 per hour)
• A very large occupation (1,675,200 workers in 2010)
• Expected to grow moderately (1.0% per year)

Education/Training

• Minimum for Entry: Training in accounting and office practices
• Employers Prefer: A 4-year degree in business or accounting
• Skills/Courses: High schools, business schools, and community colleges teach the skills needed by bookkeepers.
• Certification/Licensing: Certification is available after 2 years of experience and passing tests.