Accounting Jobs in Chicago Opportunities, Salaries, and Top Employers
Chicago, a major financial hub in the United States, offers a wealth of accounting job opportunities across various industries. Whether you’re an entry-level accountant, a Certified Public Accountant (CPA), or a financial analyst, the city’s diverse economy provides numerous avenues for career advancement.
Why Pursue an Accounting Career in Chicago?
Choosing Chicago for your accounting career comes with several advantages:
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Diverse Industry Presence: Home to sectors like finance, healthcare, technology, and manufacturing, Chicago offers a broad spectrum of industries requiring accounting expertise.
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Competitive Salaries: Accounting professionals in Chicago often earn salaries above the national average, reflecting the city’s robust economic landscape.
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Abundance of Opportunities: With numerous corporations, accounting firms, and startups, job seekers have a wide array of potential employers.
Average Salaries for Accounting Positions in Chicago
Salaries for accounting roles in Chicago vary based on experience, education, and specific job functions. Here’s an overview of average annual salaries:
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Entry-Level Accountant: Approximately $59,008 per year, which is 8% higher than the national average.
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Senior Accountant: Ranges from $88,000 to $110,000 annually.
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Accounting Manager: Typically between $107,000 and $127,000 per year.
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Financial Analyst: Salaries range from $56,782 to $79,850 annually.
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Tax Manager: Annual compensation ranges from $95,000 to $145,000.
Top Accounting Job Openings in Chicago
Here are some notable accounting positions currently available in Chicago:
1. Financial Controller at Omnia Healthcare Group
- Location: Lincolnwood, IL
- Salary: $85,000 – $125,000 annually
- Responsibilities: Oversee accounts receivable journal entries, ancillary reconciliations, and revenue classification.
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2. Senior Analyst, Tax Reporting at Kraft Heinz
- Location: Chicago, IL
- Salary: $88,000 – $110,000 annually
- Responsibilities: Manage income tax provisions, forecasting, and tax accounting research.
- Source:
3. Corporate Accountant at Google
- Location: Chicago, IL
- Responsibilities: Conduct technical accounting research on complex issues and prepare comprehensive accounting memos.
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4. Accounting Clerk at exp Federal
- Location: Chicago, IL
- Salary: $65,000 – $77,000 annually
- Responsibilities: Process vendor invoices, payments, and waivers, ensuring adherence to company policies.
- Source:
5. Tax Manager – Manufacturing at Wipfli
- Location: Chicago, IL
- Salary: $95,000 – $145,000 annually
- Responsibilities: Coordinate tax compliance and advisory work, manage client relationships, and review tax returns.
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Prominent Accounting Firms and Companies in Chicago
Chicago hosts several renowned accounting firms and corporations offering accounting roles:
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Grant Thornton LLP: A leading independent audit, tax, and advisory firm.
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BDO USA: Provides assurance, tax, and financial advisory services.
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Crowe Global: Offers audit, tax, advisory, risk, and performance services.
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RSM US: Specializes in audit, tax, and consulting services for middle-market leaders.
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Kraft Heinz: A global food and beverage leader with a significant presence in Chicago.
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Google: The tech giant has a substantial office in Chicago, offering various accounting positions.
How to Secure an Accounting Job in Chicago
To enhance your prospects of landing an accounting position in Chicago:
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Tailor Your Resume: Highlight relevant skills, certifications, and experiences pertinent to the job description.
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Obtain Professional Certifications: Credentials like CPA, CMA, or CFA can significantly boost your employability.
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Leverage Job Search Platforms: Utilize websites such as Indeed, Glassdoor, and Built In Chicago to find the latest job postings.
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Network Actively: Attend industry events, join professional associations, and connect with professionals on platforms like LinkedIn.
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Prepare Thoroughly for Interviews: Research potential employers, understand their financial operations, and be ready to discuss how your skills align with their needs.
Final Thoughts
Chicago’s vibrant economy and diverse industries make it an attractive destination for accounting professionals. By staying informed about the latest job openings, understanding salary benchmarks, and actively networking, you can position yourself for a successful accounting career in the Windy City.