Finance

Bookkeeper Job Description Template (Free, 2026)

Copy-ready Bookkeeper JD. Customize in seconds and post directly to your ATS. Includes 2026 US salary benchmarks ($42,000-$72,000) and ATS-optimized formatting.

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Job Title: Bookkeeper [Part-Time / Full-Time / Full-Charge Bookkeeper] Department: Finance and Accounting Location: [City, State] / Remote / Hybrid Reports To: Controller / Accounting Manager / Business Owner Employment Type: Full-Time About [Company Name] [Company Name] is a [industry] business based in [City, State]. We work with [customer type] and process approximately [X] transactions per month across [X] accounts. Our team of [X] people relies on accurate, timely financial records to make good decisions. We are looking for a reliable bookkeeper who takes pride in clean books and meets every deadline. About the Role We are hiring a Bookkeeper to manage the daily recording of financial transactions and maintain accurate financial records for the company. You will own accounts payable, accounts receivable, bank reconciliations, and payroll processing. The ideal candidate is highly organized, proficient in QuickBooks or Xero, and comfortable working independently with minimal supervision. Key Responsibilities - Record daily financial transactions including purchases, sales, receipts, and payments in QuickBooks Online or [accounting software] - Reconcile bank accounts, credit card accounts, and other balance sheet accounts on a monthly basis - Manage the accounts payable process: code and enter vendor invoices, obtain approvals, process payments, and maintain vendor records - Manage the accounts receivable process: generate customer invoices, send reminders for outstanding balances, and apply received payments - Process bi-weekly or semi-monthly payroll in [Gusto / ADP / Paychex] and reconcile payroll entries to the general ledger - Prepare monthly financial reports including profit and loss statements and balance sheet for management review - Maintain organized electronic and physical filing systems for all financial documents, receipts, and contracts - Assist with quarterly and annual tax preparation by providing schedules and supporting documentation to the CPA - Manage petty cash fund, expense report processing, and employee reimbursements - Identify and flag unusual transactions, discrepancies, or potential errors to the controller or business owner Required Qualifications - 2+ years of bookkeeping or accounting experience - Proficiency in QuickBooks Online or QuickBooks Desktop (certification is a plus) - Solid understanding of double-entry bookkeeping and basic accounting principles - Experience with accounts payable, accounts receivable, and bank reconciliations - Intermediate Microsoft Excel or Google Sheets skills - Strong organizational skills and meticulous attention to detail - Ability to handle confidential financial information with discretion Nice to Have - Certified Bookkeeper (CB) designation from AIPB or QuickBooks ProAdvisor certification - Experience with Xero, FreshBooks, or Wave - Payroll processing experience with Gusto, ADP, or Paychex - Familiarity with basic sales tax filing requirements What We Offer - Competitive salary between $42,000 and $72,000 depending on experience and scope - Health insurance contribution - Flexible work hours and hybrid schedule options - Paid time off and paid holidays - QuickBooks certification fee reimbursement - Supportive and collaborative small team environment Salary Range: $42,000 to $72,000 per year (US, 2026)

2026 Bookkeeper Salary Benchmarks (US)

Entry Level
$42,000
per year
Senior Level
$72,000
per year

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between a bookkeeper and an accountant?

A bookkeeper handles day-to-day transaction recording, bank reconciliations, and accounts payable and receivable management. An accountant interprets that financial data, prepares financial statements, handles tax compliance, and provides strategic analysis. Bookkeepers typically do not hold CPA licenses. For small businesses, one strong bookkeeper can handle most daily finance tasks with a CPA engaged for tax and year-end reporting.

What is the average bookkeeper salary in the US in 2026?

Bookkeeper salaries in the US in 2026 range from $42,000 for entry-level roles to $72,000 for full-charge or senior bookkeepers. Entry-level bookkeepers with under 2 years of experience earn $42,000-$52,000. Mid-level bookkeepers with 3-5 years of experience and strong QuickBooks or Xero skills earn $52,000-$62,000. Full-charge bookkeepers who handle payroll, month-end close, and financial reporting can earn $62,000-$72,000.

What software should a bookkeeper know?

QuickBooks Online and QuickBooks Desktop are the most common requirements, followed by Xero, FreshBooks, Wave, and Zoho Books. Larger organizations may use NetSuite, Sage, or Microsoft Dynamics. Proficiency in Excel or Google Sheets is always expected. If the company uses a payroll platform like Gusto, ADP, or Paychex, bookkeepers should understand how to reconcile payroll entries from those systems.

Can I use this bookkeeper job description in my ATS?

Yes. Copy the template, paste it into Treegarden's job creation form, and publish to your career page and job boards in one click. Add a screening question asking candidates to specify their QuickBooks version experience and average monthly transaction volume managed to quickly identify qualified applicants.

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