Accounting and Auditing Jobs | Top Hiring Employers

Accounting and auditing professionals are in high demand across Canada’s sectors, offering career growth, attractive salaries, and diverse roles in a robust economy—ideal for professionals at all levels. In this job post, we will explore the accounting and auditing career options available in Canada, major companies hiring in this field, expected salaries, the educational requirements, and a guide on how to apply.

Overview of Accounting and Auditing Careers in Canada

Accounting and auditing professionals are crucial for maintaining financial health, ensuring regulatory compliance, and guiding business decisions in Canada’s vibrant economy. These fields offer a variety of roles, including:

• Accountants: Responsible for preparing financial statements, managing tax filings, and advising clients or businesses on financial planning.
• Auditors: Ensure the accuracy of financial records and compliance with regulatory standards. Internal auditors work within companies to assess risk and internal controls, while external auditors are employed by accounting firms to audit client businesses.
• Forensic Accountants: Specialize in investigating fraud and financial crimes.
• Tax Specialists: Assist clients and businesses in tax planning and compliance.
• Management Accountants: Provide financial insights and analysis to help businesses make strategic decisions.

Both accounting and auditing offer opportunities to work in various sectors, including public accounting, corporate finance, government, and non-profit organizations.

Top Companies Hiring for Accounting and Auditing Roles in Canada

Several large corporations and accounting firms are consistently hiring for accounting and auditing positions in Canada. Some of the top employers in these fields include:

Big Four Accounting Firms

The Big Four accounting firms are some of the largest and most sought-after employers in Canada for accounting and auditing professionals. These firms offer a range of services, including auditing, tax consulting, and financial advisory services.

• Deloitte
• PwC (PricewaterhouseCoopers)
• KPMG
• EY (Ernst & Young)

Other Prominent Employers

• BDO Canada LLP: One of the largest accounting networks in Canada, providing audit, tax, and advisory services to clients across various industries.
• Grant Thornton LLP: Known for offering a wide range of accounting and business advisory services.
• Government of Canada: Federal government agencies such as the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) and provincial governments regularly hire accountants and auditors for internal financial management and regulatory roles.
• Banks and Financial Institutions: Institutions such as RBC (Royal Bank of Canada), TD Bank, Scotiabank, and CIBC frequently hire accounting professionals for internal audit and financial reporting roles.
• Corporations: Large Canadian corporations like Bell Canada, Air Canada, Loblaw Companies Limited, and Shopify regularly seek qualified accounting and finance professionals for in-house accounting and auditing teams.

Salaries for Accounting and Auditing Professionals in Canada

The salary range for accounting and auditing professionals in Canada varies based on experience, location, and the specific job role.

Entry-Level Salaries

• Junior Accountants/Entry-Level Auditors: Entry-level accountants and auditors in Canada can expect to earn between CAD 40,000 and CAD 60,000 per year, depending on location and the employer.

Mid-Level Professionals

• Intermediate Accountants/Internal Auditors: With a few years of experience, professionals can earn between CAD 60,000 and CAD 80,000 per year. Internal auditors in larger organizations may command even higher salaries.

Senior-Level Professionals

• Senior Accountants/External Auditors: Senior accountants and auditors typically earn between CAD 80,000 and CAD 120,000 annually, with some highly experienced professionals in specialized fields earning more.

Specialized Roles

• Forensic Accountants/Tax Specialists: Salaries in more specialized fields such as forensic accounting or tax consulting can range from CAD 90,000 to CAD 150,000, depending on the scope of the role and the complexity of the work.

Partners/Executive-Level Roles

• Partners in Accounting Firms: At the highest levels, such as partners in accounting firms, professionals can earn anywhere from CAD 150,000 to CAD 500,000 or more annually, depending on the firm’s size and location.

Salaries in major cities such as Toronto, Vancouver, and Calgary tend to be higher than in smaller cities, but the cost of living in these areas is also proportionally higher.

Educational Requirements for Accounting and Auditing Careers in Canada

A strong educational background is essential for anyone looking to enter the accounting and auditing fields in Canada. Here are the typical requirements:

Educational Qualifications

• Bachelor’s Degree: Most accounting and auditing positions require a bachelor’s degree in accounting, finance, or a related field.
• Postgraduate Studies: While not mandatory, some professionals pursue a master’s degree in accounting or an MBA with a specialization in finance to advance their careers.

Professional Certifications

Many employers in Canada prefer or require candidates to hold professional certifications. The most recognized certifications in accounting and auditing include:

• CPA (Chartered Professional Accountant): The CPA designation is the gold standard for accounting professionals in Canada. It is mandatory for many senior accounting roles and provides a broad understanding of accounting, auditing, tax, and financial management.
• CIA (Certified Internal Auditor): This certification is specifically for those in the internal audit field and is globally recognized.
• CFE (Certified Fraud Examiner): Forensic accountants and professionals investigating fraud often hold the CFE designation.
• CMA (Certified Management Accountant): Although now merged with the CPA, the CMA is still highly regarded in management accounting and financial analysis roles.

Skills Required

• Strong Analytical Skills: Accounting and auditing professionals need to analyze financial statements, audit reports, and tax filings accurately.
• Attention to Detail: Precision is essential when working with numbers and financial data.
• Knowledge of Accounting Software: Familiarity with software like SAP, QuickBooks, and other enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems is often required.
• Communication Skills: The ability to explain complex financial information to non-financial stakeholders is crucial, especially in auditing roles.
• Ethical Judgment: Integrity and adherence to ethical standards are critical in these professions, especially when handling sensitive financial data.

How to Apply for Accounting and Auditing Jobs in Canada

The process for applying to accounting and auditing jobs in Canada is similar across most companies and industries. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you navigate the application process.

Step 1: Research Potential Employers

• Identify the companies or organizations where you want to work. Focus on accounting firms, corporations, or government agencies that match your career goals and qualifications.

Step 2: Update Your Resume and Cover Letter

• Tailor your resume to highlight your accounting or auditing experience. Make sure to include relevant details such as your education, professional certifications, technical skills (e.g., familiarity with accounting software), and past job responsibilities.
• Write a concise cover letter that explains why you’re a good fit for the role. Focus on your qualifications, experience, and interest in the specific job or company.

Step 3: Prepare for Interviews

• Be ready to discuss your knowledge of accounting principles, your experience with auditing processes, and your familiarity with financial regulations in Canada. Practice answers to common interview questions such as:
  • “How do you handle tight deadlines?”
  • “Can you explain a time when you identified a financial discrepancy and how you resolved it?”
• For more technical roles, you may also be tested on your knowledge of accounting software and financial analysis.

Step 4: Follow Up

• After submitting your application, it’s good practice to follow up with the employer if you haven’t heard back within two weeks. A polite email expressing your continued interest can set you apart from other applicants.

Tips for Standing Out in the Application Process

• Highlight Certifications: Ensure your resume highlights your CPA, CIA, or other relevant certifications prominently, as these are highly valued by employers.
• Showcase Relevant Experience: If you’ve worked in specific industries, mention how your experience aligns with the employer’s business sector (e.g., healthcare, finance, retail).
• Focus on Results: Quantify your achievements where possible, such as reducing errors in financial reporting or improving audit efficiency.

Final Thoughts & Mode of Application   

Accounting and auditing careers in Canada offer lucrative opportunities for growth across various industries. With education, certifications, and experience, you can secure rewarding roles in firms, banks, government agencies, and private companies.