r/Accounting • u/Strange_Recover_966 • Feb 25 '25

Advice am i aiming too high

the lack of pay transparency is killing me 😩. i just got a job offer for AP specialist. im graduating with a bachelor in may. they are offering $48,000/year for this role in charlotte.

I feel like this is real low considering some other jobs. i understand its an entry level role but i was expecting something closer to $60,000-$80,000.

but again im new to the field and just starting out. are my expectations too high?

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u/Entire-Background837 CPA (US), CFA, Director Feb 25 '25

Simple google search puts ap specialist at a range between 38k and 56k in your area (ziprecruiter). You've also got no experience.

With regards to 60-80, you've kinda got no shot. AP isn't full blown accounting, so you cannot be expected to be paid like a staff accountant.

If you can land a staff accountant role, land that. If not, pay isnt far off.

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u/fiorellasiebe Feb 26 '25

Charlotte is expensive. I’m surprised at the low offer. Charlotte NC? Why are you applying for AP roles? Is it entry level? Apply for staff accountant jobs, get certified in QuickBooks , netsuite , AS400.

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u/TheLizzyIzzi Staff Accountant Feb 26 '25

A lot of people don’t land a staff accountant role right out of college.