Accounting jobs in Canada are in high demand, and the industry continues to grow steadily. Every year, businesses must complete essential tasks like bookkeeping and auditing, as required by law. This steady demand keeps accounting firms busy, even during economic ups and downs.
Despite challenges like high inflation, rising interest rates, and recession fears, Canada’s economy is expected to stay strong. According to a Market Research report, the accounting services industry has grown at a 0.8% CAGR over the past five years, reaching an estimated $17.2 billion in 2024.
Whether you’re aiming for a role as a Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA), Account Manager, or in corporate accounting, Canada offers exciting opportunities in cities like Toronto, Calgary, and Ottawa.
Keep reading to discover the best accounting jobs in Canada, salary insights, and tips to build a successful accounting career.
Top Accounting Job in Canada
The accounting field in Canada offers a variety of exciting career paths for professionals with different skills, qualifications, and goals. Here are the top accounting jobs in Canada, along with their roles, responsibilities, and certification requirements.
1. Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA)
A Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA) is one of the most recognized and respected accounting designations in Canada. It’s a globally recognized credential that opens doors to careers in public accounting, corporate finance, government, and non-profit organizations.
How to Become a CPA:
- Complete the CPA Professional Education Program (CPA PEP)
- Fulfill practical work experience requirements
- Pass the Common Final Examination (CFE)
- Meet education and technical competency requirements in areas such as:
- Financial Reporting
- Audit and Assurance
- Strategy and Governance
- Management Accounting
- Finance and Taxation
Alternative Pathway for Mature Students:
Even without an undergraduate degree, you can pursue a CPA designation if you have:
- 8+ years of relevant experience in technical competency areas
- Three letters of reference (employer, CPA colleague, personal reference)
- A comprehensive résumé detailing work and volunteer experience
Employment Requirements for CPAs in Canada (NOC 11100):
- A university degree in accounting or a related field
- Completion of a professional training program approved by a provincial CPA Institute
- On-the-job training (typically two years or 30 months, depending on the province)
- Membership in a provincial CPA Institute after passing the Uniform Evaluation (UFE)
- Licensing by provincial/territorial governing bodies for public accounting practices
2. Certified Management Accountant (CMA)
The Certified Management Accountant (CMA) designation emphasizes strategic financial management, making it ideal for professionals aiming for leadership roles in corporate accounting and finance departments. CMAs often hold positions such as Financial Controllers or Chief Financial Officers (CFOs).
How to Become a CMA:
- Hold a Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution
- Gain 2+ years of full-time work experience in financial or management accounting
- Pass the two-part CMA Exam, which includes both multiple-choice and essay components
- Maintain an active membership with the Institute of Management Accountants (IMA)
Key Skills of a CMA:
- Advanced financial accounting knowledge
- Expertise in strategic planning and enterprise finance
- Strong leadership and decision-making abilities
Employment Requirements for CMAs in Canada (NOC 11100):
- A university degree in accounting or finance
- Completion of an approved training program
- Several years of on-the-job training
- Certification with a regulatory body in all provinces and territories
3. Account Manager
An Account Manager oversees client relationships, financial portfolios, and operational strategies. This role is common in industries like banking, corporate finance, and public accounting firms.
Responsibilities of an Account Manager:
- Manage client accounts and ensure service delivery
- Oversee financial transactions and reporting
- Develop and maintain strong client relationships
Which Accounting Path is Right for You?
Whether you aim to become a Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA), a Certified Management Accountant (CMA), or an Account Manager, each role offers unique opportunities and rewards.
By obtaining the right certification and gaining practical experience, you can build a fulfilling and financially rewarding career in accounting.
Stay tuned as we explore salary trends, job opportunities in major Canadian cities, and the skills needed to succeed in the next section
Salary Insights for Accounting Jobs in Canada
Accounting is a well-paying career in Canada, with salaries varying based on location, experience, and qualifications such as Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA) and Certified Management Accountant (CMA) certifications. Below, we’ll break down the average salaries for accountants in Ottawa, Toronto, and Calgary, along with hourly wage insights across different provinces.
Average Accountant Salaries in Major Canadian Cities
1. Ottawa:
- Average Annual Salary: $64,995
- Top Earners: Up to $91,500
2. Toronto:
- Average Annual Salary: $64,378
3. Calgary:
- Average Annual Salary: $64,165
- Top Earners: Up to $83,000
Insight: Accountants in Ottawa generally earn slightly higher salaries compared to their counterparts in Toronto and Calgary.
Hourly Wages Across Canada
As reported by Job Bank, accounting jobs in Canada earn different hourly wages depending on their region:
| Region | Low ($/hour) | Median ($/hour) | High ($/hour) |
| Canada (Average) | $24.36 | $39.56 | $66.67 |
| Ontario | $24.85 | $40.87 | $69.23 |
| Alberta | $26.00 | $39.50 | $66.35 |
| Saskatchewan | $24.52 | $42.31 | $67.95 |
| British Columbia | $24.04 | $37.86 | $62.37 |
| Quebec | $24.62 | $40.00 | $64.10 |
| Manitoba | $22.60 | $34.95 | $63.76 |
Insight: Ontario and Saskatchewan stand out with some of the highest hourly wages for accountants in Canada.
Factors Affecting Accountant Salaries in Canada
- Experience: Entry-level accountants earn less, while senior accountants or managers with years of experience command higher salaries.
- Certifications: Holding a CPA, CMA, or CFA designation can significantly boost earning potential.
- Location: Cities like Ottawa and regions like Ontario often offer higher average wages.
Salary Trends for CPA and CMA Professionals
- Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA): Recognized as one of the top designations in Canada, CPAs typically earn higher salaries and enjoy better career prospects.
- Certified Management Accountant (CMA): CMAs are valued for their expertise in financial management and strategic planning, often securing well-paid roles in corporate settings.
In summary, accounting careers in Canada offer stable salaries with significant growth potential.
Key Locations for Accounting Jobs in Canada
Accounting professionals have excellent career opportunities across Canada, but cities like Toronto, Calgary, and Ottawa stand out for their growing demand, competitive salaries, and diverse accounting roles. Below, we’ll explore these key locations and highlight why they are top choices for accounting professionals.
Accounting Jobs in Toronto
Toronto is Canada’s financial hub, offering a wide range of accounting jobs across industries. From entry-level accounting jobs to senior positions like Account Manager and Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA) roles, Toronto remains a hotspot for financial professionals.
Key Opportunities in Toronto:
- Accounting Positions Toronto: Strong demand across corporate, public, and private sectors. You can check out different platforms such as Indeed to look for job openings in Toronto.
- Account Manager Toronto FC: Opportunities in sports finance and management e.g at Toronto FC.
- Chartered Professional Accountant Jobs: High demand for CPA-certified professionals. You can also check out job opportunities at CPA Canada here.
Accounting Jobs in Calgary, Alberta
There is a growing demand for accounting jobs in Calgary, which is known for its energy and resources sectors. The city offers a variety of roles, including positions for Certified Management Accountants (CMA) and Account Executives.
Key Opportunities in Calgary:
- Corporate Accounting Jobs: Strong demand in energy and oil sectors.
- Entry-Level Accounting Jobs: Openings for fresh graduates and junior accountants.
- Chartered Financial Accountant Salary: Competitive pay for certified professionals going upto $85,000 per year.
Accounting Jobs in Ottawa, Canada
The nation’s capital offers stable and well-paying accounting jobs in Ottawa Canada. The city is home to many government agencies, providing consistent demand for Chartered Professional Accountants (CPA) and Certified Public Accountants.
Key Opportunities in Ottawa:
- Government Accounting Jobs: Roles in federal and provincial agencies.
- Chartered Professional Accountant Jobs: High demand for CPA-certified professionals. You can look at Job Bank as well for job opportunities.
- Accounting Jobs Near Me: Numerous opportunities for local professionals are available and for that you can simply search for “Accounting jobs near me” and let Google algorithm do the rest.
Summary
Canada are packed with opportunities, whether you’re just starting out or you’re an experienced Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA) or Certified Management Accountant (CMA). Cities like Toronto, Calgary, and Ottawa stand out as prime locations, offering competitive salaries, career growth, and diverse job roles.
From entry-level accounting jobs in Canada to high-paying positions like account manager or corporate accountant, there’s something for everyone. Ottawa leads with top salaries, Toronto thrives as a financial powerhouse, and Calgary shines in corporate and energy sector accounting.
Your success in this field depends on your skills and qualifications, and earning certifications like CMA or CPA can open doors to even better opportunities.
So, sharpen your skills, pursue those certifications, and step into a rewarding career in one of Canada’s top cities for accounting professionals. Your next big opportunity is waiting!
FAQs About Accounting Jobs in Canada
What are the most in-demand accounting jobs in Canada?
Some of the most in-demand accounting jobs in Canada include Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA), Certified Management Accountant (CMA), Account Manager, Accounts Receivable Clerk, and Corporate Accountant.
Which city in Canada offers the highest salary for accountants?
Ottawa typically offers the highest average salary for accountants, with top earners making around $91,500 per year.
How much does a Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA) earn in Canada?
On average, a Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA) earns between $64,000 and $91,500 annually, depending on experience and location.
Are accounting jobs available in smaller cities or rural areas in Canada?
Accounting jobs exist across Canada, though cities like Toronto, Calgary, and Ottawa have the highest demand. Smaller cities may have fewer openings but often offer stability and work-life balance.
What qualifications do I need for accounting jobs in Canada?
Typically, you’ll need a bachelor’s degree in accounting or finance and certifications like CPA, CMA, or CFA for advanced roles.
Is there a difference between Certified Public Accountant (CPA US) and Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA Canada)?
Yes, CPA US is recognized in the United States, while CPA Canada is the Canadian designation. However, both are highly respected in Canada.
How do I find entry-level accounting jobs in Canada?
You can find entry-level accounting jobs through job boards, networking, recruitment agencies, and accounting firm websites.
What is the average salary for an account manager in Canada?
The average account manager salary in Canada varies by city, but it generally ranges from $60,000 to $80,000 annually.
What industries hire the most accountants in Canada?
Top industries for accounting jobs in Canada include financial services, public sector/government, corporate finance, energy, and healthcare.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for general informational purposes only. For professional assistance and advice, please contact experts.
