Accounting Intern (Summer 2026)

About Gusto

At Gusto were on a mission to grow the small business economy. We handle the hard stufflike payroll health insurance 401(k)s and HRso owners can focus on their craft and customers. With teams in Denver San Francisco and New York were proud to support more than 400000 small businesses across the country and were building a workplace that represents and celebrates the customers we serve. Learn more about our Total Rewards philosophy.

About the Role:

As an Accounting Intern at Gusto youll be an essential part of our Finance BizOps & Strategy (FBOS) team. This 12-week hybrid summer internship offers a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience in real-world accounting and strategic finance. Youll work on impactful projects that directly support Gustos mission to serve small businesses.

Youll have a dedicated mentor and team manager to guide your professional development as you contribute to our teams roadmap. This is your chance to apply classroom knowledge develop core analytical and problem-solving skills and make a tangible impact on our customers and business operations while learning how modern accounting teams use AI native tools to improve accuracy speed and financial insight.

Please note: Well be offering only one cohort start and end date (June 1 - August 21 2026).

Deadline to Apply: Friday November 21 2025

About the Team:

In this role youll join Gustos Finance BizOps and Strategy (FBOS) team supporting business partner organizations (for example Customer Experience EPD Corp Dev) as we scale to serve even more customers. The FBOS team provides financial operational and strategic support at the corporate departmental and product level. The teams mission is to define and defend the business model while accelerating Gustos growth as we evolve into an AI native finance organization that leverages automation predictive insights and smarter data systems.

For a closer look at what its like to work with Gusto check out this overview ofour work culture. Learn more about Gustos growth and innovation through our Series E Fundraising Announcement and our ongoing efforts to support small businesses and communities.

Heres what youll do day-to-day:

• Assist with key accounting functions such as accounts payable accounts receivable and general ledger maintenance.
• Support the financial closing process by preparing monthly reports and researching variances.
• Learn and document scalable accounting processes and controls leveraging cutting-edge AI technology.
• Perform bank reconciliations and ensure financial data accuracy.
• Use tools like SQL to query large data sets to extract insights that improve financial reporting and our operational processes.
• Contribute to budgeting expense tracking and financial analysis.
• Work collaboratively with cross-functional teams to identify and implement cost-saving opportunities and process improvements.
• Help maintain and update accounting records using Microsoft Excel and other platforms.
• Assist in designing and executing internal controls to support financial statement audits and other compliance initiatives (e.g. SOC1 Money Transmitter Licenses).
• Explore and apply AI-forward tools to automate routine data preparation and enhance analytical reviews.

Heres what were looking for:

• Currently pursuing a Bachelors degree in Accounting Finance or a related field with an expected graduation date between December 2026 and May 2028.
• Strong analytical and quantitative skills with keen attention to detail.
• A systems-minded approach with a strong interest in how financial data flows through complex technology platforms and how AI can improve the accuracy and efficiency of those systems.
• Data analysis and interpretation skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel/Google Sheets is essential; experience with accounting software and a desire to learn SQL are a plus.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• A quick learner with a proactive service-oriented mindset and a genuine interest in applying theoretical knowledge to real-world business challenges.
• Ability to work both independently and as part of a collaborative team.
• Have a learning mindset and take ownership of your own development.
• U.S. work authorization is required. This role is not available for sponsorship.

Our cash compensation amount for this role is $37.74/hr for undergraduate students in San Francisco.

Gusto has physical office spaces in Denver San Francisco and New York City. Employees who are based in those locations will be expected to work from the office on designated days approximately 2-3 days per week (or more depending on role). The same office expectations apply to all Symmetry roles Gustos subsidiary whose physical office is in Scottsdale.

Note: The San Francisco office expectations encompass both the San Francisco and San Jose metro areas.

When approved to work from a location other than a Gusto office a secure reliable and consistent internet connection is required. This includes non-office days for hybrid employees.

Our customers come from all walks of life and so do we. We hire great people from a wide variety of backgrounds not just because its the right thing to do but because it makes our company stronger. If you share our values and our enthusiasm for small businesses you will find a home at Gusto.

Gusto is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. We do not discriminate in hiring or any employment decision based on race color religion national origin age sex (including pregnancy childbirth or related medical conditions) marital status ancestry physical or mental disability genetic information veteran status gender identity or expression sexual orientation or other applicable legally protected characteristic. Gusto considers qualified applicants with criminal histories consistent with applicable federal state and local law. Gusto is also committed to providing reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities and disabled veterans in our job application procedures. We want to see our candidates perform to the best of their ability. If you require a medical or religious accommodation at any time throughout your candidate journey please fill out this form and a member of our team will get in touch with you.

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