Job Description Template: Bookkeeper
This template helps Swiss employers write a clear bookkeeper job ad. It covers daily accounting tasks, invoice and payroll management, software skills, and what to offer candidates in terms of salary, benefits, and working conditions. Adapt the Pensum (%), canton, and language requirements to your business.
A bookkeeper handles the day-to-day financial records of your business—invoices, expenses, bank reconciliations, and often payroll support. For a Swiss SME without an in-house accounting department, hiring the right bookkeeper is critical to staying compliant and keeping cash flow visible.
This template gives you the structure and language to attract a reliable bookkeeper. Customise the Pensum percentage, canton, and language requirements to match your needs. Include a realistic salary range and benefits to compete fairly in your region.
Role Overview: What the Bookkeeper Does
The bookkeeper is responsible for recording all financial transactions, managing accounts payable and receivable, and preparing reports for management and tax filing. They are often the first point of contact for financial accuracy and regulatory compliance.
In a small company, this role may also include supporting payroll, reconciling bank statements, and liaising with your accountant or tax advisor. The bookkeeper works independently but communicates clearly about discrepancies and cash position.
- Record invoices, expenses, and payments in accounting software (e.g. SAP, Banana, Sevdesk, etc.)
- Manage accounts payable and receivable; follow up on outstanding invoices
- Reconcile bank statements monthly and identify variances
- Assist with monthly or quarterly payroll data and Quellensteuer (source tax) reporting
- Prepare supporting documentation for the annual accountant or auditor review
- Flag errors, missing documents, or policy questions to management promptly
Must-Have and Nice-to-Have Requirements
A bookkeeper needs fluency in Swiss accounting norms, familiarity with at least one major accounting software package, and strong numeracy and attention to detail. Discretion and reliability matter as much as speed.
Formal qualifications (Büro-Assistent/Assistante de bureau or equivalent KV diploma) are standard; CAS in bookkeeping or accounting is a plus. Language skills depend on your location and client base—state clearly if German, French, Italian, or English is required.
- Proven bookkeeping or accounting-assistant experience (2–5 years typical for SME roles)
- Proficiency in accounting software (specify which: Excel, QuickBooks, Banana, Navision, etc.)
- Knowledge of Swiss Quellensteuer, VAT (MWST/TVA), and payroll basics
- Fluent in [German / French / Italian / English] (state your canton and client language needs)
- Nice-to-have: familiarity with your industry or existing software; CAS in bookkeeping; ISO 27001 awareness (data security)
What We Offer
Salary and benefits must reflect the canton, the Pensum, and market rates. Research local salary surveys (SGB, Salarium, or industry associations) for your region. A competitive package includes base salary, 13th-month bonus (standard in Switzerland), and statutory benefits.
Beyond pay, highlight flexibility, development opportunity, and workplace culture. Most Swiss bookkeepers also value job security, a clear reporting line, and access to professional development (e.g. software training or course sponsorship).
- Monthly salary CHF [X–Y] depending on experience and qualifications; 13. Monatslohn and holiday bonus as per GAV or company policy
- Pensum: [60–100%] (specify full-time or part-time; state core hours if flexible)
- 5–6 weeks annual leave (standard: 4 weeks statutory + company discretion)
- Occupational pension (Pensionskasse) contribution and accident insurance (UVG) as required by law
- Professional development: software training, course sponsorship for CAS or further qualifications
- Home-office options, flexible start time, or other perks that suit your culture
Frequently asked questions
- How much should I pay a bookkeeper in [my canton]?
- Salaries vary by canton and experience. Check salary databases (SGB, Salarium, or Netzwerk Schweizer Buchalter) for your region. A mid-level bookkeeper in German Switzerland typically earns CHF 4,500–6,500 gross monthly at 100% Pensum; French and Italian Switzerland may differ. Always add 13. Monatslohn and statutory benefits.
- Do I have to name my canton and city in the job ad?
- Yes. Swiss employers are expected to state the canton and ideally the city or town where the role is based. If work is partly remote, clarify the office location and home-office terms. This helps candidates assess commute and local cost of living.
- What language should I require?
- State the primary working language clearly—German, French, or Italian depending on your canton and client base. If your business serves clients in multiple languages, say so. English is increasingly useful but is rarely the sole working language for bookkeeping in Switzerland.
General information for Swiss employers, not legal advice. Have a lawyer confirm anything with legal consequences.