Hot jobs in 2023: Finance & Accounting

If you’re asking, “What are the hottest finance and accounting jobs in 2023?” you’re probably planning to grow your team this year and aren’t sure what roles to add.

We’re here to help you plan your hiring with insights on hiring trends and a recruiter-backed list of the top 10 most in-demand roles featuring the skills and background/experience required for each, plus the salary ranges we’re seeing for both contract and permanent positions.

3 hiring trends impacting finance and accounting in 2023

1. Flexibility. With many finance and accounting roles moving to remote or hybrid work throughout the pandemic, we’re seeing that employers are generally adopting this as the new normal for their teams. Thanks to the increased adaptation of cloud accounting software and technologies, finance and accounting staff can be productive no matter where they are working—whether it be your organization’s office or their home workstation.

2. Tools & Tech. The implications of an increased use of technology and software in the industry goes beyond remote work. It also means that employers are seeking finance and accounting professionals who are proficient with the latest tools and tech (if you’re looking for roles in finance and accounting, improve your resume by demonstrating how you’re keeping up with the latest industry software).

3. Prioritizing Planning. The uncertain economic outlook for 2023 has brought forth challenges as finance and accounting teams forecast and budget for the year ahead. It has become increasingly important for real-time and accurate financial records that support quick decision-making. The need for strong financial planning and analysis means Accountants are trending as the most in-demand finance and accounting role, followed by Finance Managers and Directors.

“Finance and accounting professionals are relied on heavily, especially during uncertain economic times. Financial planning, reporting and budgeting will be at the forefront of responsibilities for these professionals in 2023.” - Brian Nyandong, Director, Finance & Accounting Recruitment, Altis Recruitment

Top 10 most in-demand finance and accounting jobs in 2023

1. Accountant

Skills Required: Working knowledge and experience in full cycle accounting, data analysis, data entry, data management.

Education: Degree in Accounting, Finance or Business, working towards a CPA.

Estimated Salary Range:

• Contract $25-$37.50/hour
• Permanent $50,000-$75,000

What organizations are looking for: Ability to handle high month-end volumes, and a strong attention to detail.

2. Finance Manager/Director

Skills Required: Strong working knowledge and experience in financial planning, financial reporting and financial analysis.

Education: Degree in Accounting, Finance or Business, (CPA/CFA/MBA) would be an asset.

Estimated Salary Range:

• Contract $40-$60/hour.
• Permanent $80,000-$120,000

Organizations are looking for: Quality communication skills used to work collaboratively with multiple stakeholders. Strong leadership, vision and developmental support.

3. Payroll

Skills Required: Records management, data entry, tax deductions, pay processing.

Education: Degree in Business Administration, pursuing a Professional Payroll designation

Estimated Salary Range:

• Contract $25-$35/hour
• Permanent $50,000-$70,000

Organizations are looking for: Excellent organizational skills. Proven adaptability and willingness to learn new technology and processes.

4. Accounts Payable (AP) / Accounts Receivable (AR)

Skills Required: Data entry, records management, accounts reconciliation.

Education: Diploma in Accounting is an asset.

Estimated Salary Range:

• Contract $25-$30/hour
• Permanent $50,000-$60,000

Organizations are looking for: Strong organizational and analytical skills. Effective decision-making and problem-solving ability.

5. Finance Officer/Analyst

Skills Required: Strong understanding of financial processes and controls, knowledge of accounting principles, data entry, data management, trend analysis.

Education: Degree or diploma in Business Administration, Commerce, or a related field.

Estimated Salary Range:

• Contract $30-$47.50/hour
• Permanent $60,000-$95,000

Organizations are looking for:  Exemplary attention to detail, accuracy, and thoroughness when completing work. Strong organizational ability used to prioritize and manage deadlines.

6. Controller

Skills Required: Strong working knowledge and experience with accounts receivable, accounts payable, payroll, bank reconciliations through to preparation of financial statements.

Education: Degree or diploma in Finance/Accounting or related field preferred. CPA designation is a strong asset.

Estimated Salary Range:

• Contract $37.50-$52.50/hour
• Permanent $75,000-$120,000

Organizations are looking for: Analytical & quantitative skills, attention to detail/accuracy, problem-solving skills. Strong people management experience. Read our tips for hiring controllers.

7. Project Accountant  

Skills Required: Ability to work within spreadsheets and databases. Good understanding of monthly financial reporting, account reconciliations and accounting adjustments.

Education: Degree/diploma in accounting. CPA designation is an asset.

Estimated Salary Range:

• Contract $30-$42.50/hour
• Permanent $60,000-$85,000

Organizations are looking for: Superior organization skills and a high sense of urgency. Strong prioritization skills and ability to manage a high volume of competing requests.

8. Property Accountant  

Skills Required: General accounting, reporting, reconciliations, and budgeting.

Education: Degree/diploma in accounting. CPA designation is an asset.

Estimated Salary Range:

• Contract $30-$42.50/hour
• Permanent $60,000-$85,000

Organizations are looking for: Highly organized with the ability to multitask and work under pressure. Experience in the real estate industry and/or fund management is an asset.

9. Finance & Accounting Admin  

Skills Required: Data entry, understanding of general accounting processes, understanding of financial statements, and trend analysis.

Education: AA or BS/BA in Accounting or related field preferred.

Estimate Salary Range:

• Contract $25-$30/hour
• Permanent $50,000-$60,000

Organizations are looking for: The ability to communicate clearly and concisely in a professional manner. Strong attention to detail.

10. Auditor

Skills Required: Audit methodologies, risk management, data analytics, data visualization tools

Education: Degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, Economics or related field. Recognized professional designation (or working towards industry certifications) preferably in audit, accounting, or related field is considered an asset (CIA, CISA, CPA, CIP, CRM).

Estimated Salary Range:

• Contract $30-$45/hour
• Permanent $60,000-$90,000

Organizations are looking for: Ability to communicate clearly and concisely to effectively deliver key messages verbally and in writing.