Jobs still plentiful, survey shows

JOB opportunities for Institute of Certified Public (CPA) accountants remain strong despite the recent slow-down in the economy, a new survey shows.

The CPA survey, conducted by BrightWater Selection, shows a newly qualified certified accountant could expect to earn E40,000 to E45,000 in the financial services sector.

A newly qualified accountant working in industry can expect to secure a salary of E38,000 to E42,000 in Dublin, and between E35,000 and E40,000 outside of Dublin.

In private practice, a newly qualified CPA can expect to earn 39,000 to 45,000 in Dublin and between 36,000 and E43,000 outside of Dublin.

In the latter half of this year there has been an increase in the number of accountancy firms recruiting new staff, according to BrightWater Selection.

The survey also indicated that a Compliance Officer in the financial services sector can expect to earn E32,000 to E40,000 with a top basic salary of up to E70,000 for compliance managers.

Traditionally a male dominated profession, women entering accountancy are now out-numbering their male counterparts. In the Institute of Certified Public Accountants over 60% of students qualifying as CPAs are now women.

Demand for accountants is particularly strong in the pharmaceutical sector, but in temporary/contract work has increased generally.