Controllers - Public companies, as well as large and midsize private firms, are adding controllers and assistant controllers to oversee accounting operations, evaluate and enhance accounting and internal control systems, and assist with strategic growth initiatives.

Staff and senior accountants - Businesses seek professionals with three or more years of experience to perform accounting functions such as maintaining general-ledger accounts, preparing financial statement and developing budgets. These individuals typically possess highly versatile, transferable skills. Those with a CPA accreditation and public accounting experience are in greatest demand.

Compliance specialists - Companies continue to seek professionals with knowledge of U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission regulations to help maintain compliance with the Sarbanes-Oxley Act and other regulatory reporting requirements.

Financial analysts - As firms pursue new growth initiatives, they are adding financial analysts, especially at the senior level, to analyze and interpret data, identity ways to improve profit margins, and assist with a variety of financial planning initiatives.

External auditors - Public accounting firms continue to hire professionals to meet the strong demand from their clients or audit services.

Internal auditors - Internal audit professionals remain highly sought after to help companies enhance internal controls and assist with corporate governance compliance efforts. Individuals who have earned and maintained the CIA credential are especially valued.

Cost accountants - Manufacturers are hiring cost accountants to analyze operations and identify opportunities to achieve greater efficiencies. Construction and commercial real estate firms also seek these professionals to perform project cost analyses.

Bookkeepers - Small firms, in particular, are hiring both full-charge and entry-level bookkeepers to handle routine accounting requirements, including payroll processing, financial-statement preparation, general-ledger maintenance, and accounts payable and receivable management.

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