You do not have to have an Ontario accounting designation to work in accounting, other than public accounting, in Ontario. However, individual employers may require you to have the CMA designation or another recognized Ontario accounting designation, particularly for mid- and senior-level positions. Some employers look for applicants who are currently working toward an Ontario accounting designation. Other employers may recognize international accounting designations.

Accounting Jobs Not Requiring a Designation

Accounting clerks perform junior accounting-related work that does not require an accounting designation. Accounting clerks are involved with 1) processing and reconciling accounts payable and receivable; 2) maintaining and reviewing financial and statistical records; 3) performing data entry; 4) assisting in the preparation and maintenance of payroll and related records. Accounting clerks use computerized accounting, inventory, and billing systems. Therefore, good computer skills are essential for these jobs.

Some common job titles for accounting clerks include:

• accounts payable clerk
• accounts receivable clerk
• payroll clerk
• general ledger clerk

Examples of junior accounting jobs that may not require an Ontario accounting designation include:

• business analyst
• junior financial analyst
• finance assistant
• junior accountant

Some employers may hire people who do not have an Ontario accounting designation for more senior accounting jobs such as:

• controller
• finance manager
• accountant

For a detailed description of professional accounting and clerical accounting occupations, visit the National Occupational Classification (NOC).