7 jobs you can get with an AAT qualification
Becoming AAT qualified is one of the best ways to fast-track your career. Level by level you’ll learn in-demand skills that will help to prepare you for a rewarding career in a wide range of accounting, bookkeeping and finance roles.
With an AAT qualification, the world is your oyster. Whether it’s football or fashion that floats your boat, AAT opens the doors for you to work in any industry across the world. With so many career paths to choose from, you’ll have the freedom to choose the vocation that best suits you.
Here are 7 roles for you to consider:
Accounts Assistant
Accounts Assistants support the accounting department. It’s an entry-level role that covers various administrative tasks, such as processing invoices, preparing reports and recording transactions.
AAT qualification needed: AAT Foundation Certificate in Accounting (Level 2) or AAT Advanced Diploma in Accounting (Level 3).
Top skills required: Attention to detail, organisation, time management, computer literacy and strong communication skills.
Average salary: £21,000 per annum (AAT Salary Survey, 2021).
Credit Controller
Credit Controllers help companies or individuals manage money that’s borrowed and is owed to them. To retrieve capital, Credit Controllers have to negotiate payment plans, keep accurate records and process payments.
AAT qualification needed: AAT Foundation Certificate in Accounting (Level 2)
Top skills required: Customer service, patience, computer literacy, organisation and administration skills.
Average salary: £22,000 per annum (indeed.co.uk, 2021).
Bookkeeper
Bookkeepers are tasked with keeping financial records accurate and up-to-date to give businesses an overview of their finances. They’re also responsible for filing VAT returns, raising purchase orders and processing financial data.
AAT qualification needed: AAT Level 2 Foundation Certificate in Bookkeeping or AAT Level 3 Advanced Certificate in Bookkeeping.
Top skills required: Data entry, customer service, attention to detail, analytical and comfortable working with numbers.
Average salary: £26,000 per annum (reed.co.uk, 2021).
Payroll Manager
Payroll Managers create and implement effective systems that ensure that all payroll account transactions are correct and paid on time. They’re also tasked with maintaining accurate records, reporting on financial data and managing the payroll team.
AAT qualification needed: AAT Professional Diploma in Accounting (Level 4)
Top skills required: Attention to detail, numeracy, leadership, organisation and problem-solving.
Average salary: £36,000 per annum (indeed.co.uk, 2021).
Finance Analyst
Finance Analysts assess stocks, bonds and investment performances to advise companies and individuals about investment decisions. In general, Finance Analysts work in banks, pension funds and insurance companies.
AAT qualification needed: AAT Professional Diploma in Accounting (Level 4).
Top skills required: Problem-solving, critical thinking, analytical, communication and IT skills.
Average salary: £39,000 per annum (reed.co.uk, 2021).
Tax Manager
Tax Managers develop and put into practice bespoke tax plans for their clients (businesses and/or individuals). They’re also responsible for ensuring tax compliance, managing tax documentation and resolving tax-related issues.
AAT qualification needed: AAT Professional Diploma in Accounting (Level 4).
Top skills required: Stakeholder management, communication, problem-solving, critical thinking and attention to detail.
Average salary: £53,000 per annum (reed.co.uk, 2021).
VAT Accountant
VAT Accountants support businesses with VAT and financial advice. They also manage key relationships with HMRC, communicate with other VAT governing bodies and forecast VAT payments based on business growth.
AAT qualification needed: AAT Professional Diploma in Accounting (Level 4).
Top skills required: Critical thinking, stakeholder management, attention to detail and problem-solving.
Average salary: £55,000 per annum (reed.co.uk, 2021).
Benefits of studying AAT
AAT is the perfect qualification for those looking to kickstart or advance a career in accountancy. As shown in this blog, an AAT qualification can lead to a ton of diverse and interesting career paths.
In fact, according to the 2021 AAT salary survey, 80% of members who have completed an AAT accounting qualification agree it has increased their earning potential. And 85% of members, who work in the UK, also stated they feel very or quite secure in their job.
So if you’re looking for a secure and rewarding career path, why not give AAT a go? With our flexible distance learning subscription you can study AAT free for 7 days to see if it’s for you. Click here to get started.