Accountant

**Robert Half Accountant Internship/Graduate Program

• Wilkes-Barre, PA**

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Company Intelligence

• History & Size: Robert Half was founded in 1948 and is recognized as the world’s first and largest specialized talent solutions firm, with over 14,700 employees globally. It operates in North America, South America, Europe, Asia, and Australia, serving clients in finance, accounting, technology, marketing, legal, and administrative fields.
• Industry Position: Robert Half is a Fortune 500 company, publicly traded (NYSE: RHI), with a market capitalization of $3.46 billion as of September

2025. It is consistently ranked among America’s Best Large Employers by Forbes.

• Recent News & Growth: In 2025, Robert Half named a new Chief Marketing Officer and increased its quarterly dividend, signaling financial stability and ongoing investment in growth. The company is also recognized for sustainability initiatives and climate benchmarking.
• Culture & Work Environment: Employee surveys indicate high scores for happiness, purpose, satisfaction, and manageable stress levels. The culture emphasizes professional growth, diversity, and inclusion, with a strong focus on connecting skilled professionals to meaningful opportunities.
• Values & Mission: Robert Half’s mission is to help professionals achieve their career goals and provide clients with top talent. The company values integrity, innovation, and equal opportunity, supporting M/F/Disability/Veterans.
• Office Locations & Hybrid/Remote Policies: Headquarters are in Menlo Park, CA, with offices nationwide, including Wilkes-Barre, PA. Robert Half offers both on-site and hybrid/remote work arrangements depending on client needs and role specifics.

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Program Deep Dive

• Structure & Timeline: The Accountant role is typically offered as a contract, temp-to-hire, or permanent placement. Internships and entry-level graduate programs generally last 3–12 months, with opportunities for full-time conversion based on performance.
• Skills & Competencies Sought:
• Technical: Basic accounting principles, proficiency in Excel and accounting software, attention to detail, analytical thinking.
• Soft Skills: Communication, teamwork, adaptability, time management, problem-solving.
• Daily Responsibilities & Learning:
• Assisting with accounts payable/receivable
• Reconciling bank statements
• Preparing financial reports
• Supporting month-end and year-end close processes
• Exposure to client-facing tasks and cross-functional collaboration.
• Mentorship & Training: Interns and new graduates receive onboarding, access to online training modules, and mentorship from senior accountants or managers. Regular feedback sessions and performance reviews are standard.
• Career Progression: Successful interns/graduates may be offered permanent roles, with clear paths to Staff Accountant, Senior Accountant, and eventually management positions. Robert Half’s network also enables lateral moves into finance, audit, or consulting.

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Application Success Guide

• Requirements & Deadlines:
• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field (or current enrollment for internships)
• Resume and cover letter
• Transcripts (sometimes requested)
• Application deadlines vary; apply early for best consideration.
• Step-by-Step Process:

1. Submit application via Robert Half’s website.
2. Complete online assessments (if required).
3. Initial phone screening with recruiter.
4. Virtual or in-person interview with client company.
5. Possible skills assessment or case study.
6. Offer and onboarding.

• Common Interview Questions:
• Why accounting/finance?
• Describe a time you solved a complex problem.
• How do you prioritize tasks under tight deadlines?
• Explain a challenging team project.
• Technical questions on journal entries, reconciliations, or Excel functions.
• Assessment Centers/Case Studies: Some clients use practical accounting scenarios or Excel-based tasks to assess technical proficiency and problem-solving.
• Standout Candidate Traits:
• Demonstrated initiative (internships, campus involvement)
• Strong technical and communication skills
• Professionalism and reliability
• Willingness to learn and adapt

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Insider Tips

• Interview Tips & Company Values:
• Emphasize integrity, teamwork, and eagerness to learn.
• Show understanding of Robert Half’s role as a talent solutions provider.
• Prepare examples of overcoming challenges and working collaboratively.
• Technical vs. Soft Skills: Both are valued, but entry-level roles prioritize reliability, attention to detail, and communication. Technical skills are tested, but soft skills often differentiate candidates.
• Industry Knowledge: Be familiar with basic accounting principles, current finance trends, and the role of staffing agencies in career development.
• Questions to Ask Interviewers:
• What training and mentorship will I receive?
• How does Robert Half support career growth for new graduates?
• What are the key challenges for accountants in this client environment?
• How does the team collaborate across departments?
• Red Flags to Avoid:
• Lack of preparation or understanding of the company’s business model
• Poor communication or professionalism
• Inflexibility regarding work arrangements or learning new skills

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Practical Information

• Salary/Stipend Ranges: Entry-level accountants in Wilkes-Barre, PA typically earn $48,000–$60,000 annually, with internships offering $18–$25 per hour depending on education and experience.
• Benefits Package:
• Health, dental, vision insurance
• Paid time off and holidays
• Retirement plans (401k)
• Professional development and training resources
• Employee assistance programs.
• Start Dates & Duration: Programs start year-round, with most internships beginning in summer or fall. Duration is typically 3–12 months, with potential for extension or permanent hire.
• Networking & Alumni: Robert Half offers access to a broad professional network, regular networking events, and alumni connections for ongoing career support.

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Actionable Advice: Apply early, tailor your resume to highlight both technical and soft skills, and prepare for behavioral and technical interviews. Demonstrate your understanding of accounting fundamentals and your commitment to professional growth. Use networking opportunities to build relationships within Robert Half and the client company.