General Ledger Accountant Job Description: Top Duties and Qualifications

Last updated April 16, 2026

Our mission

Indeed’s Employer Guide helps businesses grow and manage their workforce. With over 15,000 articles in 6 languages, we offer tactical advice, how-tos and best practices to help businesses hire and retain great employees.

Read our editorial guidelines

4 min read

Related Job Titles

15095166442155214426000.0072447.17142000.00YEARLY2026-03-012026-02-01

General Ledger Accountant: Hiring Fast Facts

Indeed (US) - March 2026

Job Seekers

15,095

-1,549 since February 2026

Average Salary

$72,447 / year

Low $26,000Average $72,447High $142,000

Resumes

2,155

+11 since February 2026

Want trends specific to your market?

Go to insights

General Ledger Accountant duties and responsibilities

General Ledger Accountants are responsible for creating and maintaining accurate and compliant financial documents. Examples of General Ledger Accountant job duties and responsibilities include:

Entering financial data and transactions into the ledger
Reviewing financial documents for accuracy and reconciling accounts
Analyzing financial data and providing financial recommendations
Ensuring financial records comply with regulatory standards
Generating financial reports
Collaborating with other departments to complete accurate records and provide accounting support
Preparing taxes or gathering tax documents
Supporting the Auditor, Controller and other financial professionals in their duties as needed

Hire your next General Ledger Accountant today

Create job description

Hire your next General Ledger Accountant today

Create job description

General Ledger Accountant Job Description Examples

Example 1

The GL Accountant is responsible for all aspects full-cycle month-end closing and acts as the backup for accounts payable and payroll processing. Duties may include but not limited to preparing and posting journal entries, cash disbursements, cash receipts, bank reconciliations, preparation of monthly and annual financial statements, balance sheet reconciliations and monthly schedules.

Qualifications

BA/BS in Finance/Accounting or related field.
3-5 years accounting/finance or related experience.
ADP payroll Workforce Now & Enterprise Time system experience a plus.
Excellent written and verbal communication and customer service skills.
Strong organization skills
Self-starter/pro-active, and a team player with the ability to meet goals and deadlines
Detail oriented and must work effectively and efficiently under time pressure
Candidate must have the ability to work with interruptions, strict deadlines, and minimal supervision.

MAJOR Responsibilities

Prepare journal entries, cash disbursement, cash receipts, month-end & year-end closing, account analysis, and bank reconciliations.
Prepare and reconcile system uploads into General Ledger.
Responsible for any tasks necessary to ensure timely and accurate financial reporting.
Analyze financial statements and prepare budget variance analysis using sound judgement and critical thinking.
Government reporting.
Participates in institutional budgeting process.
Update documentation of business processes and procedures.
Assist in maintaining storage and organization of records.
Accounts Payable processing back-up.
Payroll processing back-up, using ADP Workforce Now, also perform payroll related functions on an as needed basis.
Other duties and special projects as assigned.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $30.00 per hour

Benefits:

401(k) matching
403(b)
403(b) matching
Dental insurance
Employee assistance program
Employee discount
Health insurance
Life insurance
Paid sick time
Paid time off
Retirement plan
Vision insurance
Work from home

Experience level:

3 years

Physical setting:

Office

Schedule:

Monday to Friday

Ability to commute/relocate:

Los Angeles, CA 90037: Reliably commute or planning to relocate before starting work (Required)

Experience:

Finance: 3 years (Required)

License/Certification:

CPA Location: In person

Example 2

The General Ledger (GL) Accountant works under the direction of a General Ledger Accounting Supervisor or Manager to perform general accounting work for an assigned portfolio of properties. During the monthly closeout process, the role prepares journal entries to post to the general ledger, financial statements and other reports for each property. The GL Accountant ensures completeness and accuracy of financial statements and related accounting activities.

The successful candidate will embody and work to reinforce MAA s Core Values. Those values include:

Appreciating the uniqueness of each individual
Communicating openly and with integrity
Embracing opportunities
Doing the right thing at the right time for the right reasons

Duties and Responsibilities

Applies knowledge of generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP) to the preparation of journal entries for posting to the general ledger, financial statements, reconciliations, and variance analysis during monthly closeout for each property within assigned portfolio.
Reviews financial statements for accuracy and prepares all necessary accruals, amortizations and reclassifications to complete the final monthly close package to ensure compliance with GAAP standards.
Analyzes balance sheet accounts to ensure accuracy; prepares balance sheet reconciliations with detailed explanations of account balances.
Analyzes monthly utility expenses for completeness by making all necessary accruals/adjustments and by providing detailed variance explanations.
Reconciles current month cash receipts; prepares cash reconciliations for each property balancing current month cash balances with supporting bank documents.
Participates in peer review process of work products for quality assurance, including close packages, to ensure completion, accuracy, and timely release to internal and external customers.
Reviews and responds to requests from Operations regarding various property accounting issues and implements corrective actions to resolve.
Participates in general ledger project teams with internal peers and/or external resources.
Assists with completing SOX testing as required by the Internal Audit Department.
Performs other related duties as assigned to meet the needs of the business.

Required Qualifications

Bachelor s degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field required.
Two years of professional accounting, finance or related experience required.

Preferred Qualifications

*Real estate or property accounting experience preferred
Experience with Yardi investment accounting system strongly preferred

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

Knowledge of GAAP, financial terms and principles, including cash and accrual accounting methods
Knowledge and skill to comprehend, analyze and interpret financial statements
Attention to detail and accuracy with quantitative data and financial calculations
Time management skills to meet deadlines on time-sensitive projects and demonstrate regular attendance and punctuality
Customer service orientation to provide effective and efficient support to internal clients
Skill and ability to clearly and concisely communicate verbally and in writing
Skill in applying critical thinking, analysis and problem-solving methods
Knowledge and skills to manage projects, organize, prioritize, and meet deadlines
Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications (Word, Excel, Outlook and PowerPoint)
Knowledge and ability to operate accounting software applications (e.g., Yardi)
Ability to maintain confidentiality and maintain appropriate discretion

Physical and Environmental Requirements

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.
While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to talk or hear. The employee frequently is required to stand; walk; use hands to finger, handle or feel; and reach with hands and arms.
This position requires the ability to occasionally lift office products and supplies, up to 20 pounds.
This job operates in a professional office environment. This role routinely uses standard office equipment such as computers, phones, photocopiers, filing cabinets and fax machines.

Job Type: Full-time

Benefits:

401(k)
Dental insurance
Health insurance
Life insurance
Paid time off
Vision insurance

Physical Location: In person

Example 3

Summary

A vital part of the accounting team, this position will handle various accounting duties including month end close, production of financial reports and appropriate analysis, general ledger maintenance, commission calculations and overall analysis. This role will be responsible for daily accounting, financial audits, budgeting, financial reporting, system implementation, and acquisitions.

Essential Functions

Support monthly financial close including assigned balance sheet and income statement account reconciliations, journal entries and accruals
Prepare month end reconciliations which may include but not limited to various bank accounts, fixed assets, prepaid expenses, and/or other asset and liability accounts
Post journal entries as required for asset, liability and income statement accounts
Assist in providing financial reporting and schedules as requested by management and operations
Monthly P&L reporting, budget variance analysis and commentary
Complete various tax filings including sales and use, personal property, excise and gross receipts
Assist in resolution of tax notices and research as needed
Provide accounting support for ongoing projects in conjunction with GAAP Compliance
Commission calculation and preparation
Performs other duties as required

Requirements:

Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting
1-2 yrs. prior accounting experience
Proficient in MS Office specifically MS Excel
Ability to manage multiple priorities
Strict attention to detail, highly organized and efficient
Excellent oral and written communication skills
Ability to provide outstanding customer service
Working knowledge of US GAAP laws.
Ability to work in a team environment

Job Type: Full-time

Benefits:

401(k)
Dental insurance
Flexible schedule
Health insurance
Life insurance
Paid time off
Professional development assistance
Tuition reimbursement
Vision insurance

Schedule:

Monday to Location: Hybrid remote in Pittsburgh, PA 15222

Example 4

Are you a detail-oriented accounting professional looking for the next step in your career? Come join our growing company and tight-knit accounting team!

As the General Ledger Accountant, you will be responsible for managing fixed assets, daily cash reports, GL balancing, sales and use tax reporting, and other critical accounting tasks. This position requires strong problem-solving skills, a keen eye for detail, and the ability to work independently in a fast-paced environment.

Essential Responsibilities:

Manage and report all cash activities on a daily and monthly basis. Responsible for producing weekly cash forecast and monthly cash reconciliation.
Facilitates AR process with internal and external contacts.
Submits appropriate paperwork for monthly sales and use tax returns to various states.
Maintain CAR and fixed asset reporting.
Review AR and AP accounts for accuracy. Works with our intercompany companies to balance accounts.
Record journal entries into database and ensure supporting documentation is attached.
Perform various month end reconciliations and work to resolve any discrepancies.
Organize and lead the quarterly balance sheet reviews.
Assist with the organization of the quarterly balance sheet reviews.
Perform required financial reviews as requested by individual states for renewal of contract licenses.
Perform and manage monthly closing and assist with year-end closing.
Prepare ad hoc financial analysis as requested.
Maintain a thorough understanding of financial reporting and general ledger structure.
Apply proper accounting methods, policies, and principles.
Support payroll and project analyst positions with applicable general ledger information.
Support other Accountants in the Shared Services Division.

Job Requirements / Skills, Knowledge and Abilities:

Strong decision-making and problem-solving skills are essential.
Highly organized and detail-oriented with the ability to work independently.
Capable of prioritizing and handling multiple tasks simultaneously in a fast-paced environment.
Proficient in Microsoft Excel and Adobe Experience.
Must have excellent organizational and interpersonal skills.
3-5 years of related work experience required.
Preferred experience with Deltek Costpoint, Expert Pay, Power BI, and SSRS reporting.

Education & Experience:

Bachelor's Degree in Accounting or a related field.

Computer Skills:

Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, and Lotus Notes.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $58,000.00 - $65,000.00 per year

Benefits:

401(k)
401(k) matching
Dental insurance
Flexible spending account
Health insurance
Health savings account
Life insurance
Paid time off
Tuition reimbursement
Vision insurance

Experience level:

3 years

Physical setting:

Office

Schedule:

Monday to Friday

Ability to commute/relocate:

Duncan, SC 29334: Reliably commute or planning to relocate before starting work (Required)

Experience:

Accounting: 3 years Location: In person

Example 5

General Ledger Accountant for Commercial Printer

Walton Press Inc, located in Monroe, Georgia, is a Commercial Printing Company offering high quality printing in both heat-set, cold-set, and wide format processes. We are interviewing for a General Ledger Accountant with experience with Sales & Use Tax related to manufacturing environment. Candidates must have 7-10 years of GL, Sales & Use Tax and Asset/Depreciation experience, with a demonstrated ability to make Qualified, Independent, Decisions. Bachelor s degree in Business or Finance required. Position is hand s on in a fast pace environment. Experience with Enterprise Print Management Systems a plus. Please send a resume, cover letter, and salary expectations. A Drug free, Equal Opportunity Employer.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $50,000.00 - $58,000.00 per year

Benefits:

401(k)
401(k) matching
Dental insurance
Disability insurance
Flexible spending account
Health insurance
Life insurance
Paid time off
Vision insurance

Schedule:

Monday to Friday

Ability to commute/relocate:

Covington, GA 30016: Reliably commute or planning to relocate before starting work (Required)

Experience:

General Ledger: 7 years Location: In person

Generate your General Ledger Accountant job description in seconds

AI-made, yours to edit

Start for Free

Smart tips when you post

Create job description

Our mission

Read our editorial guidelines

Get Noticed and Attract Applicants

Our tips and tricks to writing clear, concise job descriptions

Get the Guide

2155118accounting13.99accountant8.08staff accountant3.51bookkeeper1.5accounts payable1.37150951664426000.0072447.17142000.00YEARLY13521442026-03-012026-03-312026-02-012026-02-282026-04-05General Ledger Accountant skills and qualifications

General Ledger Accountants need strong financial skills to complete their duties. Prerequisite skills and qualifications that help the candidate do their work successfully include:

Copy this section

Copied to clipboard Build a Job Description

Strong analytical skills
Effective problem-solving skills to identify and correct financial discrepancies
Technical accounting skills
Written and verbal communication skills to share accounting information when needed
Technical skills and experience using accounting software
Understanding of accounting standards and regulatory requirements
Ability to work on a team and independently
Strong organizational skills

General Ledger Accountant experience requirements

Companies often want 2155118accounting13.99accountant8.08staff accountant3.51bookkeeper1.5accounts payable1.37150951664426000.0072447.17142000.00YEARLY13521442026-03-012026-03-312026-02-012026-02-282026-04-05General Ledger Accountant candidates to have two or more years of experience in the accounting field. This experience should include some key duties of a General Ledger Accountant position that can transfer to the job. The amount of experience required can vary based on the company’s size and needs. For example, a large company with lots of accounting team members might hire General Ledger Accountants with less experience to handle basic tasks. A smaller company with only one General Ledger Accountant might require more years of experience since that person needs to handle all accounting tasks.

General Ledger Accountant education and training requirements

General Ledger Accountant careers typically require at least a bachelor’s degree in accounting or a related field, such as finance. Some companies will accept a combination of education and experience when hiring a General Ledger Accountant. While being a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) isn’t required to work as a General Ledger Accountant, some companies might prefer candidates who are CPAs.

General Ledger Accountant salary expectations

According to Indeed Salaries, the average salary for a General Ledger Accountant is $60,713 per year. This salary is often dependent on the amount of experience, location and type of company.

General Ledger Accountant salary expectations

2026-03-0126000.0072447.17142000.00YEARLY

Common salary: $72,447yearly
Typical salaries range from $26,000 - $142,000yearly
Find more information on [Indeed Salaries](/content/career/General%20Ledger%20Accountant/salaries?co=US "Indeed Salaries"/index.html)

*Indeed data – March 2026

Job description samples for similar positions

If you’re looking for job descriptions for related positions, consider these options:

Copy this section

Copied to clipboard Build a Job Description

*Indeed provides this information as a courtesy to users of this site. Please note that we are not your recruiting or legal advisor, we are not responsible for the content of your job descriptions, and none of the information provided herein guarantees performance.

Home
How to Write a Job Description
General Ledger Accountant

Get Noticed and Attract Applicants

Our tips and tricks to writing clear, concise job descriptions

Get the Guide

General Ledger Accountant job description FAQs

What is the difference between a General Ledger Accountant and a Bookkeeper?

Both positions record financial data, but the General Ledger Accountant role goes beyond completing basic tasks. Bookkeepers focus on recording your company’s financial transactions and keeping your financial documents in order. General Ledger Accountants do more auditing and analysis to help the company make financial decisions.

Who does a General Ledger Accountant report to?

A General Ledger Accountant might report to a Senior Accountant, Assistant Controller, Controller or Accounting Manager. In a small company, they might report to the Assistant Manager or General Manager.

What qualities make a good General Ledger Accountant?

Having a knack for numbers is a good foundation for a strong General Ledger Accountant since the job revolves around math. They should be able to focus for long periods and maintain their attention to detail to avoid making mistakes in the numbers. The ability to keep track of multiple projects at once is beneficial since accountants have a wide range of duties throughout the month. They should also have a passion for compliance and stay current on financial regulations.

How can you make your General Ledger Accountant job description stand out?

Since the duties of a General Ledger Accountant can vary based on the size of your accounting department, list the specific responsibilities the chosen applicant will have. Include the accounting software and tools you use. Your General Ledger Accountant job description should also show how your company is different from the competition. You might mention the unique location of your office, the option to work remotely or the monthly team outings you host. Give applicants a sense of what the office is like, such as whether it’s laid-back or business casual. Offering detailed information about the job and your company may help you find applicants who are seeking that type of work environment.

Hire your next General Ledger Accountant today.

Build a job description

Job Description Examples

Need help writing a job description for a specific role? Use these job description examples to create your next great job posting. Or if you’re ready to hire, post your job on Indeed.

Search for Titles...

No search results found

General Ledger Accountant Job Description: Top Duties and Qualifications

Related Content

Related Job Titles

General Ledger Accountant: Hiring Fast Facts

General Ledger Accountant duties and responsibilities

General Ledger Accountant Job Description Examples

Example 1

Example 2

Example 3

Example 4

Example 5

Generate your General Ledger Accountant job description in seconds

2155118accounting13.99accountant8.08staff accountant3.51bookkeeper1.5accounts payable1.37150951664426000.0072447.17142000.00YEARLY13521442026-03-012026-03-312026-02-012026-02-282026-04-05General Ledger Accountant skills and qualifications

General Ledger Accountant experience requirements

General Ledger Accountant education and training requirements

General Ledger Accountant salary expectations

General Ledger Accountant salary expectations

Job description samples for similar positions

General Ledger Accountant job description FAQs

Hire your next General Ledger Accountant today.

Job Description Examples