Accounting Jobs in Montreal
Montreal, known for its vibrant culture, thriving economy, and strong corporate presence, is also one of Canada’s top hubs for accounting careers. As the city continues to attract global investments and support growing industries such as finance, technology, manufacturing, and trade, the demand for skilled accounting professionals remains high.
Whether you’re a recent graduate or an experienced accountant looking for a career shift, Montreal offers diverse opportunities ranging from corporate finance to public accounting, auditing, and tax consultancy. This guide explores the job market, required skills, salaries, and the best ways to secure accounting jobs in Montreal.
Why Choose Montreal for an Accounting Career?
Montreal is more than just a cultural capital—it’s also a business powerhouse. It houses the headquarters of several Canadian and international corporations, major banks, and accounting firms. Some of the reasons accounting professionals choose Montreal include:
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Multilingual work environment – Many companies value professionals fluent in both English and French.
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Competitive salaries – Comparable to Toronto, with a lower cost of living.
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Wide range of industries – Opportunities in finance, government, education, manufacturing, and IT.
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Work-life balance – Montreal is known for shorter commute times and a more relaxed lifestyle compared to other major cities.
Types of Accounting Jobs in Montreal
Accounting is a broad field with multiple career paths. In Montreal, the most common accounting roles include:
a) Public Accountant
Work with a CPA firm to provide auditing, tax planning, and advisory services for clients across industries.
b) Corporate Accountant
Manage a company’s financial records, prepare reports, and ensure compliance with tax laws.
c) Auditor
Evaluate internal controls, check compliance with regulations, and assess risk management processes.
d) Tax Specialist
Prepare and file tax returns, advise clients on tax strategies, and stay updated on Canadian tax laws.
e) Management Accountant
Analyze financial data to help organizations make better strategic decisions.
f) Bookkeeper
Handle day-to-day financial transactions, payroll, and reconciliations for small and medium-sized businesses.
Salary Expectations for Accounting Jobs in Montreal
Salaries in Montreal vary depending on qualifications, experience, and industry. Here’s a general salary range for 2025:
| Position | Average Annual Salary (CAD) |
|---|---|
| Entry-Level Accountant | $48,000 – $58,000 |
| Senior Accountant | $65,000 – $85,000 |
| Auditor | $60,000 – $80,000 |
| Tax Specialist | $55,000 – $75,000 |
| Accounting Manager | $80,000 – $105,000 |
| CFO / Senior Finance Executive | $130,000 – $180,000+ |
Note: Bilingual accountants often earn higher salaries due to their ability to serve both English and French-speaking clients.
Key Skills Required
To succeed in Montreal’s accounting industry, you’ll need both technical and soft skills:
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Technical Skills
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Knowledge of Canadian GAAP and IFRS
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Proficiency in accounting software (QuickBooks, Sage, Xero, SAP)
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Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities
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Understanding of Canadian tax laws
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Soft Skills
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Communication skills (in English and French preferred)
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Time management and organizational skills
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Attention to detail
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Ethical decision-making
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Qualifications and Certifications
Most employers require at least a Bachelor’s degree in accounting, finance, or a related field. Additional certifications enhance career prospects, including:
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CPA (Chartered Professional Accountant) – Highly valued for senior roles.
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CFA (Chartered Financial Analyst) – Beneficial for finance-related positions.
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CIA (Certified Internal Auditor) – Ideal for auditing roles.
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CMA (Certified Management Accountant) – For management accounting careers.
Top Employers
Montreal is home to a variety of employers that regularly hire accountants:
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Big Four Firms: Deloitte, PwC, KPMG, and EY
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Major Banks: RBC, BMO, Scotiabank, TD, National Bank of Canada
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Government Agencies: City of Montreal, Quebec Government
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Corporations: Bombardier, Air Canada, CGI, SNC-Lavalin
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Nonprofits & Educational Institutions: McGill University, Concordia University
How to Get an Accounting Job
If you’re looking to break into Montreal’s accounting job market, here are some steps:
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Update Your Resume – Highlight certifications, bilingual skills, and relevant experience.
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Leverage Networking – Attend industry events, join CPA Quebec, and connect with professionals on LinkedIn.
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Apply to Both Large and Small Firms – Big firms offer structured growth, while smaller ones offer varied exposure.
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Prepare for Interviews – Be ready to answer technical questions and case studies.
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Consider Contract Roles – Temporary or project-based work can lead to permanent positions.
Career Growth Opportunities
The accounting profession in Montreal offers steady career growth. Many professionals start in junior roles and move up to management or executive positions within a decade, especially if they earn a CPA designation and gain experience in diverse industries.
Challenges in Accounting Job Market
While opportunities are abundant, there are challenges to be aware of:
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Bilingual Requirement – Many roles require fluency in both English and French.
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Competition – Popular employers receive a high volume of applications.
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Busy Seasons – Accountants often face long hours during tax season or year-end reporting.
Future Outlook
The demand for accountants in Montreal is expected to grow steadily through 2030. With advancements in automation and AI, professionals with tech skills in addition to accounting knowledge will have a strong advantage.
Conclusion
Accounting jobs in Montreal offer a rewarding career path with competitive salaries, diverse industries, and long-term growth potential. Whether you aim to work for a major firm, a corporate finance team, or start your own practice, the city provides abundant opportunities for both new graduates and experienced professionals.
FAQs
The average salary for accountants in Montreal ranges from CAD $48,000 for entry-level positions to over CAD $105,000 for senior and managerial roles. Bilingual professionals often earn more.
While some companies operate in English, many accounting roles in Montreal require bilingual proficiency in both English and French.
Most employers require a Bachelor’s degree in accounting, finance, or a related field. A CPA designation significantly boosts your job prospects.
Top employers include Deloitte, PwC, KPMG, EY, RBC, BMO, National Bank of Canada, Bombardier, Air Canada, and government agencies.
Yes, several companies offer hybrid or remote accounting positions, especially in roles involving auditing, bookkeeping, and tax preparation.
Networking, earning a CPA designation, showcasing bilingual skills, and gaining relevant experience are the best ways to secure a role in Montreal’s competitive job market.
