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If you’ve ever searched for “Bookkeeper job description,” you’ve probably noticed that most articles look the same—dry bullet points, generic buzzwords, and zero personality. They might fill space on a careers page, but they don’t actually attract the kind of reliable, detail-driven candidates you need to keep your books clean.
The truth is: a job description isn’t just paperwork—it’s a marketing tool. It’s your first impression to potential hires. And if it reads like a template, you’ll lose the exact people you’re trying to bring in.
👉 Before we dive in, I recommend checking out our full guide on how to write a job post that attracts top talent , Link https://workscreen.io/how-to-write-a-job-post/ — it breaks down why generic posts fail and shows you the structure that actually converts.
In this article, we’ll apply those principles to the Bookkeeper Backer role. I’ll show you what this role really is in plain English, give you two proven job description templates (one for experienced bookkeepers, one for entry-level candidates), break down why they work, and even provide a quick copy-paste version you can tailor to your company.
So before you settle for a bland template, let’s make sure your job post actually connects with the right kind of candidates.
Don’t let bad hires slow you down.
WorkScreen helps you identify the right people—fast, easy, and stress-free.
What the Bookkeeper Backer Role Actually Is
A Bookkeeper Backer is the steady hand behind your company’s finances. They’re the person who keeps your numbers accurate, your accounts reconciled, and your financial picture clear—so you can make confident business decisions without worrying about surprises.
In practice, that means:
- Recording daily transactions (invoices, bills, receipts, payroll).
- Reconciling bank and credit card accounts to ensure accuracy.
- Tracking accounts payable (what you owe) and accounts receivable (what you’re owed).
- Preparing simple monthly reports like profit & loss and cash flow.
- Flagging errors, inconsistencies, or risks before they snowball into bigger problems.
But beyond the tasks, here’s the bigger picture: bookkeepers aren’t just “data entry.” They’re detail-oriented problem-solvers who protect your company’s financial health. A strong bookkeeper not only makes sure the books balance—they give leadership the clarity to plan, grow, and invest wisely.
Reliability, accuracy, and discretion are non-negotiables. Add clear communication (so non-finance teammates actually understand what’s going on), and you’ve got the makings of a great Bookkeeper Backer.
Two Great Bookkeeper Backer Job Description Templates
We’ll provide two tailored job description options:
1.✅ Option 1: For employers looking to hire an experienced candidates with prior experience.
2.Option 2: For employers open to hiring entry-level candidates or those willing to train someone with potential.
✅ Version A — Job Description For Experienced Bookkeeper Backer
Job Title: Bookkeeper Backer — Keep Our Project Finances Tight at Silver Leaf Construction
Location / Type / Compensation: West Point, Mississippi | Full-Time | $22–$28/hr (DOE) + benefits
Schedule: Mon–Fri | 8:00am–4:30pm
A quick word from our hiring manager (Video): (Insert Loom/YouTube link — 30–60s on mission, impact, success traits)
Who We Are
Silver Leaf Construction is a family-owned asphalt and concrete contractor with 25+ years serving businesses and municipalities across Northeast Mississippi. We’re known for honest work, on-time delivery, and crews that treat every project like it’s our own driveway.
What You’ll Do
- Reconcile bank and credit card accounts weekly; own clean month-end close.
- Own A/P & A/R: enter/vendor bills, match POs, schedule payments, send invoices, track retainage, and follow up on aging.
- Maintain job cost codes and support WIP reporting; keep documentation audit-ready (contracts, lien waivers, COIs).
- Prepare monthly P&L, cash flow, and A/R aging; surface risks and trends early.
- Coordinate with project managers on progress billing and change orders; partner with CPA for year-end and tax prep.
- Tools: QuickBooks Online, Google Sheets (lookups/pivots), Dext/Receipt management.
What You Need to Succeed
- 3–5+ years of bookkeeping or accounting ops (construction or job-costing a plus).
- Strong QBO/Xero skills; advanced Sheets/Excel; comfort with vendor portals.
- Meticulous, discreet, proactive; you spot mismatches and chase them down.
- Clear communicator with non-finance teammates; calm under deadlines.
Perks & Benefits
- Health & dental insurance after 90 days
- 8 paid holidays + up to 40 hours PTO in year one
- 401(k) with company match
- Learning stipend (QuickBooks certification / job-costing courses)
Why This Role Is a Great Fit
You like clean ledgers, crisp reconciliations, and solving small issues before they become big ones. You’ll work with a respectful crew that communicates clearly, backs each other up, and appreciates someone who brings order to the chaos.
Our Hiring Process
We review every application and reply within 14 days. Through Workscreen, you’ll complete a short, role-specific exercise (10-line reconciliation + invoice/retainage scenario). Finalists meet the team and hiring manager.
How to Apply
Apply via Workscreen → [Insert Workscreen link]
🌱 Version B — Job Description of Entry Level Bookkeeper Backer (Willing-to-Train)
Job Title: Junior Bookkeeper Backer — Learn Finance Ops at Silver Leaf Construction
Location / Type / Compensation: West Point, Mississippi | Full-Time | $17–$21/hr (DOE) + benefits
Schedule: Mon–Fri | 8:00am–4:30pm
A quick word from our hiring manager (Video): (Insert Loom/YouTube link — 30–60s on mission, growth path, day-to-day)
Who We Are
Silver Leaf Construction has kept Mississippi roads, lots, and walkways in top shape for over 25 years. We’re a tight-knit team that takes pride in quality work and straightforward service—and we’re ready to train the right person to grow into a trusted finance teammate.
What You’ll Do (with mentorship)
- Enter vendor bills and customer invoices; file receipts and docs so they’re searchable.
- Assist with weekly bank/credit card reconciliations; learn month-end close.
- Help maintain job files (POs, delivery tickets, subcontractor docs, COIs).
- Support A/R follow-ups and A/P scheduling; update simple reports.
What You Need to Succeed
- Comfort with numbers and organization (coursework, certificate, or self-taught).
- Google Sheets/Excel basics; eager to learn QuickBooks Online.
- Reliability, confidentiality, strong attention to detail; professional communication.
- Curiosity and follow-through—you like finishing checklists correctly.
Perks & Benefits
- Health & dental insurance after 90 days
- 8 paid holidays + up to 40 hours PTO in year one
- Learning stipend for bookkeeping courses/certifications
- Clear 30/60/90-day onboarding plan + weekly mentorship
Why This Role Is a Great Fit
You’re early in your finance journey and want hands-on training in a real business. You’ll get practical experience, friendly guidance, and steady work that builds confidence and skill.
Our Hiring Process
Apply via Workscreen and complete a beginner-friendly evaluation (simple categorization + mini-reconciliation and a 5-line summary). We reply to every applicant within 1–2 weeks.
How to Apply
Apply via Workscreen → [Insert Workscreen link]
Hiring doesn’t have to be hard.
If your hiring process is stressful, slow, or filled with second-guessing—WorkScreen fixes that. Workscreen helps you quickly identify top talent fast, eliminate low-quality applicants, and make better hires without the headaches.
Breakdown of Why These Bookkeeper Backer Job Posts Work
Both versions of the Bookkeeper Backer job description share common traits that make them effective. Here’s why they’ll attract better candidates compared to a generic post:
1. Clear & Specific Titles
Instead of “Bookkeeper,” the job titles highlight context (“Bookkeeper Backer — Keep Our Project Finances Tight at Silver Leaf Construction”). This tells candidates not just what the job is, but why it matters and where. Clarity reduces unqualified applicants and increases relevance.
2. Video Element Builds Trust
By adding a short video from the hiring manager, the job post feels personal and authentic. Candidates get a glimpse of the team, the mission, and expectations—which creates a stronger emotional connection than text alone.
3. Company-Specific “Who We Are” Section
Generic posts often describe the company in one vague line. Here, the company is introduced with a local legacy and clear values. Silver Leaf’s 25+ years and reputation for honest work instantly set context and credibility.
4. Warm Context Before the Duties
Instead of diving straight into bullet points, each template explains why this role matters. It frames bookkeeping as a backbone of financial clarity, not just data entry. This makes the job feel purposeful.
5. Responsibilities That Show Impact
The tasks are described as outcomes: “Own clean month-end close,” “Surface risks and trends early,” “Keep projects moving.” This language shows how the work contributes to company success, which is more motivating than a dry list of tasks.
6. Transparent Perks & Benefits
Listing health insurance, PTO, holidays, and learning stipends upfront signals honesty and builds trust. Candidates can self-assess fit without guessing or wasting time.
7. “Why This Role Is a Great Fit” Section
This section speaks directly to personality and mindset. For the experienced version, it appeals to detail-lovers who enjoy order. For the junior version, it encourages learners who want mentorship. Both create a sense of belonging and self-selection.
8. Respectful Hiring Process
Promising that every application is reviewed and every applicant receives a reply addresses a major frustration among job seekers. Mentioning the Workscreen evaluation shows fairness, modern hiring, and respect for candidates’ time.
9. Clear, Human “How to Apply” CTA
Instead of a cold “send CV to HR,” candidates are guided to Workscreen with a simple link and reassured about the process. The tone is welcoming, not transactional.
Example of a Bad Bookkeeper Job Description (And Why It Fails)
Job Title: Bookkeeper
Company: Silver Leaf Construction
Location: West Point, Mississippi
Type: Full-Time
Job Summary
We are seeking a bookkeeper to handle financial records and transactions. The ideal candidate will maintain accounts, process invoices, and prepare reports.
Key Responsibilities
- Record daily transactions
- Prepare financial statements
- Reconcile bank accounts
- Manage accounts payable and receivable
Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree in accounting or related field
- 2–3 years bookkeeping experience
- Proficient in Excel and QuickBooks
How to Apply
Send your CV and cover letter to hr@silverleaf.com. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
❌ Why This Job Post Fails
- Generic Job Title
Just “Bookkeeper.” It says what the role is, but not why it matters or what kind of environment it’s in. - No Personality or Mission
The introduction is flat and transactional. There’s no sense of what Silver Leaf stands for or why this job exists beyond pushing numbers. - Responsibilities Too Vague
The bullet points could describe any bookkeeping role at any company. There’s no connection to the construction industry or project-driven work. - No Perks or Benefits
Serious candidates want to know compensation, time off, and growth opportunities. Leaving this out makes the post look outdated or even evasive. - Exclusionary Requirements
Requiring a bachelor’s degree cuts out strong candidates with real-world bookkeeping experience but no formal degree—a big miss in today’s market. - Cold Hiring Process
“Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted” signals indifference. It feels dismissive and discourages good candidates from applying. - Zero Human Touch
No video, no culture statement, no values. The post feels like a checkbox formality, not an invitation to join a team.
Bonus Tips That Make Your Post Stand Out
Even if you already have a solid job description, adding a few extras can dramatically increase trust and applicant quality. Here are some enhancements worth including:
🔒 1. Add a Security & Privacy Notice
Applicants worry about scams. A short line builds instant trust:
“We take your privacy seriously. We will never ask for payment, bank details, or personal financial information at any stage of the hiring process.”
🌴 2. Mention Flex Time or Leave Days
Candidates value work-life balance as much as pay. Even small offerings stand out:
“Enjoy up to 24 flex days off per year so you can recharge and return energized.”
📈 3. Highlight Training & Growth Opportunities
Many bookkeepers want to upskill into controller, financial analyst, or CPA roles. Show them you’ll help:
“We invest in growth—covering QuickBooks certification costs and offering a yearly learning stipend.”
🎥 4. Add a Hiring Manager Video
A 30–60 second Loom or YouTube video instantly makes your post more personal. Suggested script:
- Share the company’s mission in one sentence.
- Explain how this role contributes to the mission.
- Describe what success looks like in the first 90 days.
Here is an example that we used in our master guide on how to write a great job post description , you can check it out here https://www.loom.com/share/ba401b65b7f943b68a91fc6b04a62ad4
🎯 5. Preview Success Metrics
Great candidates want to know what winning looks like:
“In this role, success means reconciling accounts weekly, closing books by the 5th of each month, and keeping A/R days under 40.”
🤝 6. Emphasize Candidate Experience
Set yourself apart by addressing their frustration with the usual black-hole hiring:
“We review every application carefully and guarantee a response within 14 days.”
Should You Use AI to Write Job Descriptions?
It’s tempting to let AI tools spit out a full job description in seconds. Many ATS platforms even offer “one-click” templates. But here’s the problem:
❌ What Happens When You Rely on AI Alone
- You end up with generic filler posts that could describe any company, in any industry.
- They attract the wrong kind of applicants—people mass-applying without reading.
- They make your company look lazy or disconnected. Remember, your job post is the first impression of your culture.
A job description is not just words—it’s a marketing tool that shapes who applies. If your post reads bland and robotic, the best candidates won’t bother.
✅ The Smarter Way to Use AI
AI can be useful if you give it the right raw materials. Instead of saying, “Write me a bookkeeper job description,” feed it your context:
Example Prompt:
“Help me write a job post for our company, Silver Leaf Construction. We’re hiring a Bookkeeper Backer to keep project finances accurate and support clean month-end close. Tools: QuickBooks Online and Google Sheets. Top tasks: reconciliations, A/P, A/R, job costing. Success looks like: accounts reconciled weekly, books closed by the 5th, and A/R days under 40. Our culture is family-owned, detail-driven, and respectful. We offer $22–$28/hr DOE, health & dental, PTO, and a learning stipend. Our hiring process uses Workscreen for a fair skills evaluation, and we reply to every applicant within 14 days. Here are a few notes I’ve written to get you started: [paste your notes]. Write it in a warm, professional tone that shows why the role matters.”
With a prompt like this, AI becomes a polisher that helps with structure, clarity, and flow—while still reflecting your company’s real voice, values, and expectations.
Build a winning team—without the hiring headache.
WorkScreen helps you hire fast, confidently, and without second-guessing.
Copy-Paste Job Description Templates for Quick Use
We get it—sometimes you don’t have hours to fine-tune a job post. That’s why we’ve included two quick templates below. Use them as a starting point—but don’t forget to customize them with your company’s voice, values, and details.
✏️ Important Reminder:
Don’t copy this word-for-word and expect magic.
This is a foundation, not a final draft.
Add a Loom video, inject your team culture, and edit the details to reflect your actual company.
In this section, you’ll find two ready-to-use job description templates for quick copy-paste use — but please remember, like we mentioned above, don’t just copy them word-for-word and expect results.
Think of these as starting points, not final drafts.
- Option 1: A more conversational, culture-first job description that highlights personality and team fit.
- Option 2: A more structured format, including a Job Brief, Responsibilities, and Requirements for a traditional approach.
✅ Option 1: Conversational, Culture-First (Experienced)
Job Title: Bookkeeper Backer — Keep Our Finances Clean at [Company Name]
💼 Location: [Remote/Hybrid/Onsite] (HQ: [City, State])
🕒 Type: [Full-Time/Part-Time]
💰 Salary Range: [$X,000 – $Y,000]/year
A quick message from our hiring manager (video): [Loom/YouTube link]
Who We Are
[Company Name] is a [one-line company description: e.g., “product company helping X do Y”]. We value [e.g., ownership, clarity, respectful pace] and make decisions with clean, timely financials.
Why This Role Matters
You’ll keep our books accurate and our leadership informed—so projects stay on budget, vendors are paid on time, and cash flow is predictable.
What You’ll Do
- Reconcile bank/credit card accounts weekly; close books by the [date, e.g., 5th].
- Own A/P & A/R: vendor bills, invoicing, aging follow-ups.
- Maintain the chart of accounts; keep documentation audit-ready.
- Prepare monthly P&L, cash flow, and A/R aging; flag risks and trends.
- Coordinate with [CPA/Accountant] for tax prep and year-end.
- Tools: [QuickBooks/Xero], [Google Sheets/Excel], [Receipt mgmt tool].
What You Need to Succeed
- [3–5+] years bookkeeping/accounting ops (SMB/startup a plus).
- Proficiency in [QuickBooks/Xero] and strong [Sheets/Excel] (lookups, pivots).
- Meticulous, discreet, proactive; clear communicator with non-finance teammates.
Perks & Benefits
- [Health/Dental/Vision]
- [Paid holidays + PTO / Flex days]
- [401(k) with match / Pension]
- [Learning stipend / Certification support]
Why This Role Is a Great Fit
You love tidy ledgers, crisp reconciliations, and catching issues early. You’ll join a team that values clarity, mutual respect, and dependable follow-through.
Our Hiring Process
Apply via Workscreen. You’ll complete a short, role-specific evaluation ([e.g., mini-reconciliation + vendor scenario]). We reply to every applicant within [X–Y] days.
How to Apply
Apply via Workscreen → [Insert Workscreen link]
🧱 Option 2: Structured (Entry-Level / Willing-to-Train)
Job Title: Junior Bookkeeper Backer — Learn & Grow in Finance Ops at [Company Name]
💼 Location: [Remote/Hybrid/Onsite] (HQ: [City, State])
🕒 Type: [Full-Time/Part-Time]
💰 Salary Range: [$X,000 – $Y,000]/year
Who We Are
[Company Name] is a [brief description]. We’re a supportive, detail-driven team that documents processes, communicates clearly, and trains for growth.
Job Brief
We’re hiring a Junior Bookkeeper Backer to learn our bookkeeping workflows and support daily finance operations with mentorship.
Responsibilities
- Enter vendor bills and customer invoices accurately.
- Assist with weekly bank/credit card reconciliations; learn month-end close.
- Organize receipts and documentation so everything is searchable.
- Help prepare simple monthly reports and learn to spot basic anomalies.
Requirements
- Foundation with numbers/organization ([coursework, certificate, or self-taught]).
- Comfortable in [Google Sheets/Excel]; eager to learn [QuickBooks/Xero].
- Reliability, confidentiality, attention to detail; professional communication.
Perks & Benefits
- [Health/Dental/Vision]
- [Paid holidays + PTO / Flex days]
- [Learning stipend / Certification support]
- [30/60/90-day onboarding + weekly mentorship]
Our Hiring Process
Apply via Workscreen. You’ll complete a beginner-friendly evaluation ([e.g., simple categorization + mini-reconciliation]). We reply to every applicant within [X–Y] days.
How to Apply
Apply via Workscreen → [Insert Workscreen link]
Let WorkScreen Handle the Next Step of Hiring
Writing a great job description is only step one. The bigger challenge is sorting through applicants—especially when generic resumes and AI-generated cover letters start piling up. That’s where Workscreen.io makes the difference.
Here’s how Workscreen helps you hire smarter:
- Quickly spot top candidates
WorkScreen automatically evaluates, scores, and ranks applicants on a performance-based leaderboard—making it easy to spot top talent, save time, and make smarter, data-driven hiring decisions.
- One-click skill tests that reveal real ability
With WorkScreen, you can administer one-click skill tests to assess candidates based on real-world ability—not just credentials like résumés and past experience. This helps you hire more confidently and holistically.
- Filter out low-effort and AI-driven applicants
WorkScreen automatically eliminates low-effort applicants who use AI Tools to apply, copy-paste answers, or rely on “one-click apply.” This way, you focus only on genuine, committed, and high-quality candidates—helping you avoid costly hiring mistakes.
- Save hours of recruiter time
Instead of drowning in applications, Workscreen narrows your pool to the people who actually fit—so you spend less time screening and more time hiring.
Ready to simplify your hiring process?
Once your job post is live, connect it to Workscreen.io. Let the platform evaluate, score, and highlight the right candidates for you—so you can hire confidently, quickly, and without the guesswork.
👉 Sign up for Workscreen.io today and start hiring smarter.
Frequently Asked Questions - Bookkeeper Backer Job Description
Look for a balance of technical and soft skills. Technically, a bookkeeper should be confident in tools like QuickBooks or Xero, and strong with Excel/Google Sheets functions (lookups, pivots, reconciliations). They should also understand accounts payable/receivable workflows, reconciliation processes, and basic reporting. Just as important are soft skills: reliability, attention to detail, confidentiality, clear communication, and the ability to explain financial data in plain English to non-finance teammates.
The salary varies depending on experience, location, and industry. On average, bookkeepers in the U.S. earn between $42,000 – $58,000 per year. Junior or entry-level roles typically start closer to $35,000–$40,000, while experienced bookkeepers—especially those with construction, SaaS, or specialized industry experience—can earn $60,000 or more. Hourly rates usually range from $20–$28/hour.
Not necessarily. Many employers value hands-on experience, certifications, or proven skills over a formal degree. Credentials like QuickBooks ProAdvisor, Xero Certification, or a bookkeeping certificate can boost credibility, but strong accuracy and reliability matter more than formal education.
Bookkeepers manage the day-to-day financial records—recording transactions, reconciling accounts, and preparing basic reports. Accountants analyze this data, perform complex adjustments, ensure compliance, and create higher-level financial strategies. Think of bookkeepers as the builders of accurate financial data, and accountants as the interpreters of that data.
Common tools include QuickBooks, Xero, FreshBooks, or industry-specific software. They’ll also use Excel/Google Sheets, receipt management tools (like Dext or Hubdoc), and sometimes payment processors (Stripe, PayPal). Comfort with digital documentation and cloud storage is increasingly essential.
