SAIPA Trainee Accountant

About the Role

This is an exceptional opportunity for a motivated accounting graduate to join a professional firm in Somerset West and complete their 3-year SAIPA training contract. The successful candidate will gain comprehensive practical exposure across accounting, taxation, and statutory compliance, working with a diverse portfolio of clients to develop the technical competencies required to qualify as a Professional Accountant (SA).

Key Responsibilities

• Accounting & Bookkeeping: Maintain accurate accounting records for a portfolio of clients, performing bank, debtor, and creditor reconciliations, and processing month-end journals and adjustments.
• Financial Statements: Prepare working papers and draft annual financial statements for companies, trusts, and close corporations using cloud-based accounting and reporting software.
• Taxation Compliance: Calculate and prepare individual and corporate income tax returns, VAT submissions, and provisional tax calculations while assisting with SARS correspondence.
• Payroll Administration: Assist with monthly payroll processing, including EMP201 and EMP501 reconciliations and the issuance of IRP5 certificates.
• Statutory Compliance: Manage CIPC annual returns, maintain company statutory information, and ensure compliance with beneficial ownership requirements.
• Client Management: Act as a professional point of contact for clients, requesting information, managing deadlines, and responding to routine accounting queries.
• SAIPA Training: Maintain the required SAIPA logbook and complete all practical experience and competency requirements as prescribed by the institute.

Requirements

• Qualifications: A completed (or nearing completion) BCom Accounting degree or equivalent qualification accredited by SAIPA for entry into a training contract.
• Experience: Previous bookkeeping or accounting experience is advantageous but not essential for an entry-level trainee.
• Technical Skills: Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, Outlook) is essential. Exposure to Xero or other cloud-based accounting platforms is highly beneficial.
• Competencies: Strong numerical and analytical ability with high attention to detail.
• Soft Skills: Excellent professional communication skills, a willingness to learn, and the ability to manage multiple deadlines effectively.

What’s on Offer

• A formal, structured 3-year SAIPA Training Contract.
• Mentorship and guidance from experienced Professional Accountants.
• Diverse exposure to multiple industries and entity types.
• A professional and supportive work environment conducive to career growth.
• Practical experience in modern, cloud-based accounting technologies.