smartblogger094The city of Boston is a thriving hub for business and finance, offering lucrative career opportunities for accountants. For international professionals looking to work in the United States, becoming an accountant in Boston can provide excellent compensation and job stability through H-1B visa sponsorship.
In this guide, we will explore accounting jobs in Boston that offer an annual salary of $72,000 or more with H-1B visa support.
Overview of the Accounting Profession in Boston
The Greater Boston region is home to over 700 accounting firms of all sizes that employ thousands of accountants.$^{1}$ Major industries like healthcare, technology, and education contribute to high demand for accounting expertise in areas like tax preparation, audit, financial reporting, and more.
Some of the largest employers of accountants in Boston include major consulting firms like Deloitte, PwC, EY, KPMG, national/regional firms, as well as many banks, universities, and companies across various industries.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates the job market for accountants and auditors in the Greater Boston area will grow 12% between 2020-2030, which is much faster than the national average of 5%.$^{2}$ This projected growth is driven by expanding business activity, increasing tax and regulatory compliance needs, as well as replacing retiring baby boomer accountants.
Accounting Jobs in Boston Offering $72K Salary with H-1B Visa Support
There are many rewarding career options for international accountants seeking to live and work in Boston through the H-1B visa program. Here are some examples of specific accounting roles that typically offer a minimum $72,000 salary as well as H-1B sponsorship:
Staff Accountant
Staff accountants provide general accounting and bookkeeping support under the direction of more senior accountants. These entry-level positions are a common way for international candidates to gain U.S. work experience. Large firms regularly sponsor H-1B visas for staff accountants at a starting salary of $72,000.
Audit Associate
At the 2-3 year experience level, audit associates perform financially focused audits and help ensure compliance. Public accounting firms in Boston typically pay H-1B sponsored audit associates $75,000-$80,000 annually depending on previous experience and qualifications.
Corporate Accountant
Corporate accountants handle the financial activities of private companies across many industries in Boston. Companies will sponsor H-1Bs for international candidates as corporate accountants earning $75,000-$85,000 per year to handle tasks like accounts payable/receivable, financial reporting and analysis.
Junior Tax Consultant
For international CPAs with 1-4 years of tax preparation experience, a junior tax consultant role sponsored at $72,000-$80,000 annually through the H-1B program is attainable. Duties involve individual/business tax filings, research, and client advisory work. National tax firms in Boston regularly offer these opportunities.
Assistant Controller
With 5+ years of relevant accounting experience, international candidates can qualify for assistant controller positions at $80,000-$90,000 per year including H-1B sponsorship. These mid-career roles assist controllers by overseeing accounting staff and financial reporting functions for established Boston companies.
Requirements for Accounting Jobs Offering H-1B Visa Support
To be eligible for the accounting roles discussed offering $72,000+ salaries and H-1B visa sponsorship, international candidates will generally need to meet the following minimum criteria:
- Bachelor’s degree in Accounting or related field from an accredited college or university
- Strong academic record with at least a 3.0 GPA preferred
- Relevant certification such as a CPA license or progress towards certification
- 2-5+ years of post-qualification accounting experience for roles above entry-level
- Proficiency in English with ability to communicate clearly
- Eligibility to obtain an H-1B work visa through employer sponsorship
- Legal authorization to work in the United States for duration of employment
While job opportunities may exist at firms willing to sponsor for training roles, having post-qualification experience and accreditation increases competitiveness. International CPAs with specialized U.S. accounting knowledge are in high demand.
H-1B Visa Process for Accounting Candidates
The following outlines a typical timeline and process for sponsored H-1B visas enabling international accounting professionals to work legally in Boston:
- Candidate applies for an open accounting position and is selected for sponsorship 4-6 months before start date
- Employer files Labor Condition Application (LCA) with DOL stating wage/working standards will be met
- H-1B petition is submitted to USCIS including job offer, candidate qualifications, LCA
- If petition is approved, candidate finalizes visa process abroad including medical clearance
- Upon arriving in the U.S., candidate obtains valid work authorization documents
- H-1B status is approved initially for 3 years with option to renew/extend as necessary
- Employer remains sponsor throughout employment and files necessary extensions/amendments
Those serious about relocating for accounting careers in Boston with visa support should plan ahead and carefully manage application timelines. Pursuing optional practical training can aid international students as well.
FAQs about Accounting Jobs Offering H-1B Visa Sponsorship in Boston
1. How competitive are these jobs?
Since these roles offer visa sponsorship, they attract many qualified applicants globally each year. Candidates with excellent credentials, communication skills, and cultural fit have the best odds. International experience is valued. Factors like timing, GPA, licensure, and references impact competitiveness.
2. Are salaries negotiable for these positions?
Entry-level salaries tend to have less flexibility but larger firms may consider negotiating within $2,000-$5,000 of standard starting offers depending on experience. Salaries for experienced candidates have wider ranges and negotiations are expected, especially when competing offers exist.
3. How stable is ongoing employment and visa status?
As long as work standards are met, sponsors aim to retain international talent long-term. However, economic changes, downsizing, or office/role closures could impact some jobs. Firms abide by immigration/labor laws regarding proper notification/action if layoffs occur. Maintaining a strong work history increases stability.
4. What cities in addition to Boston offer accounting opportunities?
Other major markets with plentiful accounting employment include New York, Chicago, Los Angeles, Dallas, Washington D.C. and San Francisco. However, specific roles/salaries/requirements can vary significantly between locations based on cost of living and industry trends. Researching several regional options thoroughly is prudent.
5. What steps should be taken if an H-1B petition or transfer is denied?
In rare cases of initial denial, gathering more evidence of qualifications and reapplying is possible if there is still time in the filing window. For transfers, finding another willing sponsor may be the only option within 60 days to maintain status.
Speaking with an immigration attorney can help determine the best course like appealing or if alternate visa options exist. Overall planning for contingencies is advisable.
Conclusion
The accounting profession in Boston provides diverse career paths and compensation exceeding $72,000 annually for qualified international candidates through H-1B visa sponsorship. Careful preparation equips job seekers to maneuver the filing process alongside demonstrating top qualifications that attract top firms.
With diligent effort, relocating to America’s historic financial hub as a sponsored accountant is an attainable dream offering rewarding professional experiences.
smartblogger094