How Do You Become an Audit Clerk?

auditor clerk

Individuals interested in learning how to become an audit clerk are often surprised when they learn becoming an audit clerk can be accomplished in less than a year. Audit clerks have the task of ensuring numbers and figures are entered correctly in a company’s bookkeeping system. With just a little training and experience, an individual who enjoys working with numbers can become an audit clerk for any number of industries. Learn about audit clerks here, including how to become one, what they do and what they can expect in career outlook.

What is an Audit Clerk?

An audit clerk is a trained professional who works with numbers in an office setting. They receive and record checks, cash and vouchers; produce income statements, balance sheets and similar reports; use spreadsheets, databases and bookkeeping software; post debits and credits into the computer; reconcile daily reports and ensure everything is accurate. Since audit clerks deal with numbers, they generally enjoy math and are good with numbers. Audit clerks also have to be proficient with computers to keep up with modern office technology. In addition to ensuring numbers are accurate, audit clerks must also make sure everything is code correctly. Audit clerks often work with auditors and accountants.

How to Become an Audit Clerk

While an individual may be hired as an audit clerk and receive on-the-job training, this is not always the case. Many employers prefer that their auditing clerks have some sort of training, especially in the area of accounting. Training programs for audit clerks are offered at community colleges and technical schools. They include training in bookkeeping and double-entry bookkeeping.

Aspiring audit clerks may also take courses in specialized computer software. In the case where the individual does receive on-the-job training, it can typically take up to six months. Audit clerks who want an advantage often choose to obtain certification to demonstrate their knowledge and expertise. The American Institute of Professional Bookkeepers offers the Certified Bookkeeper credential.

Career Outlook for Audit Clerk

The U.S Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects audit clerks would see little to no job growth during the 2016-2026 decade. The technological changes, such as the Internet, cloud computing and automation, has decreased the need for audit clerks. Audit clerks who are employed will take on more advisory roles and train for advancements within the company. Job openings for more audit clerks will take place as present audit clerks retire or leave their positions.

The BLS reports that bookkeeping, accounting and auditing clerks earned annual wages that ranged from $24,600 to $60,670 in 2017 with the average wage at about $41,110. The factors that typically affect wage potential are years of experience, training, employer and location. The industry that employs the highest number of bookkeeping, accounting and auditing clerks is accounting, tax preparation, bookkeeping and payroll services. The highest paying state for audit clerks is District of Columbia ($55,370), and the lowest paying state for audit clerks is South Dakota ($33,210).

While it may not appear that there is a lot of job growth for audit clerks in the immediate future, it’s a position that’s always needed any time you have an office setting. Learning how to become an audit clerk will not only prepare an individual for entry-level jobs but can also act as a stepping stone towards a degree program in business.

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