Working as a Chartered Professional Account (CPA)
Industry Overview
In Canada all three accounting designations, CA / CMA / CGA have merged under the Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA) designation.
CPAs have a variety of employment opportunities and are in high demand in BC.
Demand for tax, financial instrument, forensic accounting, bankruptcy and information experts is increasing, and demand for accountants specializing in a specific industrial sector may also be on the rise.
Technology has changed the accounting profession. As more accounting functions become automated, auditors and accountants can spend more time understanding financial information and creating management strategies. In addition, things like blockchain, cryptocurrency and other changing areas of focus require people in this career to continue to learn both through formal training and by keeping up to date through media, lectures and industry conferences.
With the rise of international trade, job opportunities are opening for accountants who speak additional languages. More employers want accountants and auditors with international experience and knowledge, including how to handle foreign exchange management and sales tax issues.
Source: WorkBC
Job Outlook in BC – Accountants
Source: Work BC
WorkBC provides job openings in BC regions from 2021-2031:
| Region | Employment in 2021 | Average Annual Employment Growth |
Expected Number of Job Openings 2021-2031 |
| Vancouver Island | 3,560 | 0.6% | 1,190 |
| Lower Mainland/Southwest | 22,970 | 1.3% | 8,640 |
| Thompson-Okanagan | 2,430 | 0.8% | 990 |
| Kootenay | 430 | 0.0% | 120 |
| Cariboo | 610 | 0.0% | 180 |
| North Coast & Nechako | 120 | 0.6% | 40 |
| Northeast | 200 | 1.2% | 90 |
You can learn more about the accounting sector from:
Types of Employers
Accountants work for:
- businesses of all kinds
- government
- educational and health care organizations
- non-profit organizations
- auditing or accounting firms, for a company or you can be self-employed as consultants
Salary
The median annual salary for accountants and financial auditors in BC is $61,713. You usually receive benefits, such as dental plans, pension plans and sick days. You may also receive performance bonuses or profit-sharing plans.
Sources: WorkBC & Career Cruising
In BC regions you can expect to make:
Source: Job Bank
The 2019 CPA Canada Profession Compensation Study Report revealed that Canadian CPAs have a median annual compensation of $112,000 and an average of $152,000. Among industries with at least 100 members reporting, the highest median compensation can be found in holding companies, mining, and oil and gas. The industry with the highest median compensation gain (based on the percentage increase between 2016 and 2018) was technology/IT, with an increase of 12%.
Source: Daily Dividends
Also see this salary survey:
Working Hours
You generally work between 8 and 10 hours a day, 40 to 50 hours a week.
You may have to work nights and weekends if an important deadline is approaching.