Does anyone work in the accounting field for the government?

Does anyone works in the accounting field for the government?

• if you do what are the pros and cons between government and public accounting? How many hours do you work a week? What is your salary? can I get a job in the government when i ...show more

• Answer:

  I don't have the job yet, but I have a government counselor who tells me the truth. I'm almost 100% assured of getting a job because I am a Desert Storm vet who is 100% disabled and will have a master's in forensic accounting. She said all I have to do is pick the place. You have to apply for government jobs. There is a web site out there that tells you what's open, where, what pay level, experience, etc. Vets get a 5 point hiring preference. My counselor told me I'd probably have to start out in the IRS unless I wanted overseas. The salary is lower than civilian pay which is why they have so many benefits. Depending on your work history, probably $25,000 to $30,000 to start. Government jobs are pretty permanent, you don't advance as quickly, you normally work 40 hour weeks. Working for one of the Big 4 in accounting, you'd start out in the mid-$30's but move up quickly- and no job security. If you are a CPA, you'd do much better wherever you went. I'm getting a CFE- certified fraud examiner. Basically the difference is lower pay, more benefits and job security vs. higher pay and quicker promotions. Don't forget, you have to apply. I know the list is on the web, I just can't remember where. Good luck!