| Essential Skill | Level Required | Example Task |
|---|---|---|
| Reading Text | 1 to 3 | Reads handwritten notes and comments (1) |
| Reads e-mails and requests for clarification (2) | ||
| Reads instruction manuals for computer software, Canada Revenue procedures and Tax Acts (3) | ||
| Document Use | 3-Jan | Scans labels on discs and office products (1) |
| Locates data in a variety of lists, tables and schedules (2) | ||
| Completes forms often, combining data from several sources (3) | ||
| Writing | 1 to 2 | Writes comments on forms and notes (1) |
| Writes e-mails and minutes of meetings (2) | ||
| *Numeracy | 1 to 4 | Estimates time needed to carry out tasks (1) |
| Records amounts in general ledgers and reconcile with bank statements (2) | ||
| Calculates year end values, a variety of schedules, and amounts for payroll (3) | ||
| Prepares, monitors, and verifies financial statements and personal/corporate tax returns (4) | ||
| Oral Communication | 1 to 3 | Interacts with suppliers to enquire about products, verify prices, etc. (1) |
| Talks to representatives from the Canada Revenue Agency, interacts with clients, coworkers and supervisors (2) | ||
| Presents financial reports to shareholders and answer complex questions (3) | ||
| Computer Use | 2 to 3 | Uses word processing, databases, and Internet (2) |
| Uses spreadsheets, bookkeeping, billing and accounting software (3) | ||
| Thinking Skills | 2 to 3 | Finds financial records that are inaccurate, incomplete or missing (2) |
| Verifies journal entries and bank statements should there be discrepancies with bank reconciliations (3) | ||
| Thinking Skills - Problem Solving | Data currently being updated | |
| Thinking Skills - Decision Making | Data currently being updated | |
| Thinking Skills - Critical Thinking | Data currently being updated | |
| Thinking Skills - Job Task Planning and Organizing | Data currently being updated | |
| Thinking Skills - Significant Use of Memory | Data currently being updated | |
| Thinking Skills - Finding Information | Data currently being updated | |
| Working with Others | 2 | Coordinates their work with supervisors, clients, accountants and other bookkeepers (2) |
| Continuous Learning | 3 | Stays abreast of changes to government procedures, rules and regulations, and accounting software and practices (3) |
| Other Aspects | Physical | Required to sit for long periods, bend to retrieve files, and use eye-hand coordination to operate computer equipment |
| Organized, analytical, detail-oriented, discreet, calm and diplomatic | ||
| Furthering computer skills and enhancing analytical thinking skills | ||
**Thinking Skills include: Problem Solving, Decision Making, Critical Thinking, Job Task Planning and Organizing, Significant Use of Memory, and Finding Information.
View the external profile (new window) Source: HRSDC
Source: http://www.labourmarketinformation.ca
| Age Bracket | Age Profile |
|---|---|
| 15 to 24 | 105 |
| 25 to 44 | 530 |
| 45 to 64 | 785 |
| 65 plus | 130 |
Employment opportunities for Bookkeepers in the Niagara area are expected to be average for the 2009-2010 period with the current supply generally meeting the demand. According to the census, employment in this occupation has declined over the past five years. With almost 60% of Bookkeepers over the age of 45 some employment opportunities should be created through retirement.
Since this occupation is found across so many industries, its employment is not particularly vulnerable to economic downturns in specific industries. There is a wide variety of potential employers for bookkeepers, therefore a qualified applicant should have fair opportunity for employment.
Provincially, employment for this occupation is expected to increase more slowly than the average for all occupations through 2009. However, because of the large size of this occupational group, the need to replace workers who retire or leave will produce thousands of additional job openings yearly. The use of computerized accounting systems is widespread, even in small offices, allowing more work to be done with fewer workers. This trend will continue to moderate future employment growth.
In small offices, the bookkeeping function is increasingly being integrated with other clerical support duties. Most vacancies are filled by informal networks or direct application. Employers also recruit via newspaper ads, and private and public employment agencies. Bookkeepers with specialized computer skills and those working towards recognized accounting designations are expected to be more successful in the labour market.
| Sector | Number Employed in Niagara | Percentage | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 54 Professional, scientific and technical services | 435 | 45.79% | |
| 23 Construction | 205 | 21.58% | |
| 81 Other services (except public administration) | 160 | 16.84% | |
| 44-45 Retail trade | 150 | 15.79% | |
Accounting and Related Clerks (1431), Banking, Insurance and Other Financial Clerks (1434), Financial Auditors and Accountants (1111), Payroll Clerks (1432)
Source: http://www.labourmarketinformation.ca
