Should I Consider Becoming a Wealth Clerk?

Should I Consider Becoming a Wealth Clerk?

Mar 1, 2015 | 9:00 am

A wealth clerk (also known as “finance clerk,” “Bookkeeper” or “Cashier Officer”) is a person who carries out clerical responsibilities that involves handling money. The responsibilities of wealth clerks vary according to employers. The clerks may be responsible for calculating wages, preparing invoices and handling payments. They ensure that financial records are well kept; they check statements and balance sheets. Are you seriously thinking about becoming a financial clerk, but you have haven’t quite made up your mind yet?

An Overview of Work Performed by Wealth Clerks

Wealth clerks keep the records of all day-to-day financial transactions. Prior to independent accountants checking the organization’s accounts, the finance clerks are responsible for preparing a trial balance sheet.

Some finance clerks calculate wages based on the particular number of hours that a staff has put in (this includes overtime); they also work out rates of wages and deductions like tax payments, PRSI and pension contributions. A wealth clerk also prepares pay-slips and wage packets. They utilize computers and calculators to help them with the work they do. Contact with other workers in the company is often limited to discussions of orders, charges, and costs. Some finance clerks in large companies simply specialize in one of two of the aforementioned responsibilities.

What Skills You Ought to Possess to Become a Finance Clerk

In order to be a wealth clerk, you will need to be well organized, logical, and methodical in your work. You will need to be extremely good with numbers and have the ability to pay close attention to details. You should also be able to work with other people. Having computer skills (such as knowledge of databases and spreadsheets) and the capability to use standard office machinery like photocopiers and fax machines are important.

Opportunities and Pay

According to the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median wage for wealth clerks as of May 2012 was $34,960 per annum. Not a bad quote for an entry level salary.

Wealth clerks work in the accounts sections of several types of institutions; this includes financial institutions, private companies, local government and educational institutions. Climbing up the ladder of promotion is easier for those who take further courses in business studies or accounting. When it comes to salaries, it is important to understand that salaries vary depending on the nature of the work and the size of the organization that you work in.

Becoming a Finance Clerk

You will usually need to have an associate’s degree in order to break into this profession. Employers typically prefer to choose candidates who have taken a few college courses in economics or business; in some cases, employers need candidates with a two or four-year college degree.

Many finance clerks learn the best way to do their job through on-the-job training. Undertaking a few technical training courses may also be necessary. For instance, a gaming cage staff may require some training in specific gaming procedures and regulations.

There is plenty of opportunity out there in this profession that rewards steady performance.