Millennials wrote off accounting as the most boring job in America—now it’s one of the hottest seasonal jobs and Gen Z’s back door to six figures

Millennials once dismissed accounting as the most unexciting profession in America, but now it's one of the most sought-after seasonal jobs, with Gen Z hopefuls potentially on the back door to high-paying careers. According to Monster's Seasonal Hiring Index 2026, tax accountants and tax experts topped the list of jobs with the most seasonal activity.

Last year, tax accountants dominated the rankings, and this year, they reappeared on the list. The accounting and finance sector is facing a severe talent shortage, with the U.S. currently lacking 340,000 accountants, and the gap only widening. Seasonal accounting jobs could serve as a stepping stone to a lucrative six-figure career outside the holiday season.

Monster's report suggests that many companies use seasonal roles to evaluate potential full-time hires. To secure a position, tax accountants typically need a bachelor's degree, while those with Certified Public Accountant (CPA) credentials can command salaries nearing $200,000. However, Gen Z job seekers may be too late to apply for these positions, as seasonal hiring spiked in September and October last year, then dropped significantly by November.

Gen Zers need to act quickly, as entry-level roles are disappearing due to AI advancements, leaving them three times less likely to have a job lined up upon graduation. Despite the limited time frame, tax and accounting roles are still concentrated in September and October, making them a prime opportunity for those willing to search beyond the typical "holiday job" titles.

To increase their chances, job seekers should use specific job titles like "tax associate" and explore various industries, such as retail, fulfillment, and hospitality. Retail jobs are among the most sought-after seasonal positions, with nine of the top 13 roles in Monster's list falling under retail or package handling/transport.

Consequently, even if the idea of working at a cash register doesn't appeal to Gen Zers, they should consider fulfillment or warehouse work. By broadening their search and utilizing December to prepare for the next hiring wave, job seekers can maximize their chances of securing a seasonal position that aligns with their skills and schedule.