There are many job opportunities available with a Certified Public Accountant certification. Some people limit their job search to traditional accounting positions. You can merge your qualifications and interests to build a rewarding, long-term career. Here are some unique career opportunities every new and experienced CPA should consider.
Investors Relations Specialist
Investor relations specialists report to the chief financial officer. They also work with the public relations department. Their goal is to manage the marketing messages delivered to investors. In this specialty, you will develop or use investor relations solutions. These tools encourage individuals to invest in the company. You will also spend time interpreting stock exchange reports. Finally, you must ensure that information follows Securities and Exchange Commission regulations.
Financial Auditor
As an auditor, you should review your company’s financial statements. These documents must adhere to Security and Exchange Commission guidelines. As you review these documents, identify ways to improve cash flow or mitigate risk.
Forensic Accountant
Forensic accountants work on behalf of law enforcement. You look for evidence of embezzlement, bribery, money laundering, or fraud. Insurance companies use forensic accountants to identify the financial impact of a case. Even divorce attorneys hire forensic accountants to investigate the couple’s financial status. These professionals are usually hired when one of the partners owns a business. You ensure a fair settlement for both spouses by:
- Appraising assets
- Finding hidden money
- Evaluating marital and non-marital assets
- Appraising property
- Providing expert testimony
Financial Advisor
Having a CPA is an added benefit for financial advisors. You will use your marketing skills, accounting talents, and financial knowledge. You assist clients with debt management, retirement preparation, and tax planning. Your clients will need help building long-term wealth and leaving a financial legacy. As you provide great services to your customers, they will make referrals. Several financial advisors find themselves with such a large caseload, they hire a partner and transition accounts to them.
Fund Manager
Fund managers enjoy knowing how the stock market functions. You are responsible for managing stock trades and implementing mutual fund goals. Many entry-level accountants maintain the funds’ financial statements. As you grow, you will:
- Use dynamic communication skills speaking with investors or investment professionals
- Analyze the economy to reduce risk
- Recommend portfolio diversification strategies
- Cut expenses to lower client maintenance fees
Educator
A CPA certification is valuable if you would like to teach at a local college or university. Some accountants supplement their income by teaching part-time accounting classes. Consider developing an online social media business featuring videos with accounting tips. You can use these videos to launch your freelance services and work in an accounting firm. If you are currently employed full-time, check your company’s policy about moonlighting.
Tax Accountant
Tax accountants work for accounting firms with several clients. You may prefer to work as an independent contractor. As a tax accountant, your primary responsibilities include identifying tax benefits and finding write-offs. You will also make sure that they are paying all state and federal tax liabilities. Finally, you will coordinate and complete tax paperwork on your client’s behalf.
Climate Accountant
Climate, or environmental, accounting is a growing field that merges your desire for sustainability with the company’s need for profit. Most of your responsibilities overlap with a traditional accounting job. You can also track carbon offset programs, manage Environmental Protection Agency reports, and analyze climate metrics.
Career Coach
As a career coach, you help other accountants improve their job prospects. You help individuals identify their professional goals and find an enjoyable career. Since you have your CPA, you are uniquely qualified to help clients find the best opportunity. You are familiar with the amount of studying and anxiety that went into preparing for and taking the exam. Career coaches focus on helping their clients understand:
- Exactly what they do not like about their current position
- How they envision their future
- If they would prefer to work as an independent contractor or for a firm
- Their perceived value to their CPA
There are several career options for a CPA that wants to have a job that is a little unique. Take some time to evaluate your long-term career goals and see which opportunity best matches your objectives. Once you find your ideal position, you can look forward to satisfied work life.
