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:

• Multilingual work environment – Many companies value professionals fluent in both English and French.

• Competitive salaries – Comparable to Toronto, with a lower cost of living.

• Wide range of industries – Opportunities in finance, government, education, manufacturing, and IT.

• 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:

• Technical Skills

  • Knowledge of Canadian GAAP and IFRS

  • Proficiency in accounting software (QuickBooks, Sage, Xero, SAP)

  • Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities

  • Understanding of Canadian tax laws

• Soft Skills

  • Communication skills (in English and French preferred)

  • Time management and organizational skills

  • Attention to detail

  • Ethical decision-making

 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:

• CPA (Chartered Professional Accountant) – Highly valued for senior roles.

• CFA (Chartered Financial Analyst) – Beneficial for finance-related positions.

• CIA (Certified Internal Auditor) – Ideal for auditing roles.

• CMA (Certified Management Accountant) – For management accounting careers.

 Top Employers 

Montreal is home to a variety of employers that regularly hire accountants:

• Big Four Firms: Deloitte, PwC, KPMG, and EY

• Major Banks: RBC, BMO, Scotiabank, TD, National Bank of Canada

• Government Agencies: City of Montreal, Quebec Government

• Corporations: Bombardier, Air Canada, CGI, SNC-Lavalin

• 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:

1. Update Your Resume – Highlight certifications, bilingual skills, and relevant experience.

2. Leverage Networking – Attend industry events, join CPA Quebec, and connect with professionals on LinkedIn.

3. Apply to Both Large and Small Firms – Big firms offer structured growth, while smaller ones offer varied exposure.

4. Prepare for Interviews – Be ready to answer technical questions and case studies.

5. 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:

• Bilingual Requirement – Many roles require fluency in both English and French.

• Competition – Popular employers receive a high volume of applications.

• 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.

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