SAICA Trainee Accountant / Article Clerk

Introduction Our client, based in the Northern suburbs of Cape Town, offers Accounting, Tax and Auditing services. They are currently looking for a SAICA Trainee Accountant / Article Clerk to join their dynamic team.

 

POSITION OVERVIEW

Our Client is looking for motivated, committed and academically strong candidates to join our team for a SAICA training contract commencing in January 2027.

The training contract provides exposure to a broad range of accounting, auditing, taxation and business-related services. Candidates will work closely with experienced managers and senior staff and will be expected to develop both their technical competence and professional skills throughout their training contract.

We are looking for individuals who are committed to completing their SAICA training contract, take responsibility for their work and are willing to learn and develop within a professional environment.

Duties & Responsibilities KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

As a SAICA trainee, the successful candidate will receive practical exposure to areas including:

Accounting and Financial Reporting

Preparation and processing of accounting records. Preparation of reconciliations and working papers. Preparation of annual financial statements. Assisting with management accounts. Working with accounting software and electronic client records.

Auditing

Assisting with audit planning and execution. Performing audit procedures and preparing working papers. Obtaining and evaluating audit evidence. Performing substantive and analytical procedures. Assisting with audit completion procedures. Communicating audit findings to senior staff.

Taxation

Assisting with preparation of income tax returns. Assisting with corporate and individual tax matters. SARS eFiling administration and correspondence. Assisting with VAT, PAYE and other tax-related matters. Researching tax issues under supervision.

Secretarial and Compliance Services

Assisting with CIPC-related compliance. Beneficial ownership and UBO administration. Maintaining statutory records. Assisting with company and trust compliance matters.

General

Communicating professionally with clients. Following up on outstanding information. Maintaining accurate electronic working papers. Recording time accurately against client assignments. Meeting deadlines and managing multiple assignments. Following the firm's internal procedures and quality-control requirements.

TECHNICAL SKILLS

The following would be advantageous:

Microsoft Excel Microsoft Word and Outlook Accounting software SARS eFiling Cloud-based accounting systems Basic understanding of IFRS Basic understanding of South African taxation Ability to work with large amounts of financial information

Previous exposure to accounting software or practical accounting work will be advantageous but is not essential.

PERSONAL ATTRIBUTES

We are looking for candidates who demonstrate:

Integrity and honesty Strong work ethic Accountability and responsibility Attention to detail Willingness to learn Professionalism Good organisational skills Ability to work under pressure Ability to meet deadlines Good communication skills Teamwork Initiative A positive and constructive attitude Commitment to completing the SAICA training contract

Candidates must be willing to accept feedback, learn from mistakes and continuously improve their technical and professional skills.

YOU DO NOT NEED TO BE ABLE TO SPEAK AFRIKAANS, BUT YOU DO NEED TO BE ABLE TO UNDERSTAND AFRIKAANS.

WHAT WE LOOK FOR IN A TRAINEE

Academic results are important, but they are not the only consideration.

We look for candidates who:

Take ownership of their work. Can be trusted to complete tasks properly. Ask questions when they do not understand something. Are prepared to put in the effort required to become a professional accountant. Treat colleagues and clients with respect. Are reliable and punctual. Demonstrate maturity and professionalism. Show evidence of commitment rather than simply looking for a short-term position. Are interested in developing a long-term career in accounting and finance.

 

Desired Experience & Qualification MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS

Candidates should meet the following requirements:

Currently completing, or have completed, a BAcc / BCom Accounting or equivalent SAICA-accredited qualification. Intend to complete the academic requirements necessary to pursue the CA(SA) qualification. Good computer literacy and proficiency in Microsoft Office, particularly Excel. Good written and verbal communication skills. Valid driver's licence and reliable transport would be advantageous. YOU DO NOT NEED TO BE ABLE TO SPEAK AFRIKAANS, BUT YOU DO NEED TO BE ABLE TO UNDERSTAND AFRIKAANS.

 

ACADEMIC REQUIREMENTS

Candidates should have demonstrated the ability to cope with the academic demands of the CA(SA) pathway.

Preference may be given to candidates who:

Maintain a consistent academic record. Demonstrate a sound understanding of accounting principles. Show particular strength in Financial Accounting, Auditing and Taxation. Have progressed successfully through their degree without unnecessary delays. Demonstrate commitment to completing their postgraduate studies and professional examinations.

Academic performance will be considered together with the candidate's overall suitability, attitude, work ethic and practical experience.

Package & Remuneration R18K - R20K if you have completed your PGDA

Interested? Should you not receive a response within 14 days of applying, please consider your application unsuccessful.