Is It Normal for Junior Staff at Big Four Accounting Firms to Work 60 Hours a Week?

Yes, it is relatively common for junior staff at Big Four accounting firms to work around 60 hours a week, especially during busy seasons like tax season or audit periods. This level of work can be demanding, but many junior employees are prepared for it as part of the culture in these firms. However, maintaining a work-life balance is crucial, and communicating with supervisors if you feel overwhelmed is highly recommended. Many firms have also been working on addressing work-life balance issues to provide resources and initiatives that help manage workloads.

Is It Normal to See Juniors Working Around 60 Hours a Week?

Yes, it's fairly normal across the industry. I often consult with firms on their Business and Technology Strategy and recognize that these kinds of hours are a social/cultural norm. I have noticed, however, that it's not only juniors who work 60-hour weeks. Seniors and Partners at most firms also put in around 60 hours a week, but they tend to do this outside of office hours. They'll leave the office in the evening and focus on their non-work priorities but pick up work again at night and on the weekends.

Should Juniors Work 60 Hours a Week?

No, I don't necessarily feel that 60 hours a week is useful for juniors. One answer mentioned that managers kept team members in the office just to show-face to a client, which is not a good strategy. This can be counter-intuitive for a company’s business culture and negatively reflects on a manager’s ability to manage clients. There are often higher stress levels associated with such an environment, as juniors feel compelled to work excessively due to the company's expectations and the culture surrounding them. Many believe this to be a form of hazing ritual that has been accepted over the years and sold as tradition/culture.

crunch times when everyone is working long hours and grinding are understandable, but it's important to remember that this has become a cultural norm and standard. In the long term, if you want to stay in the industry, it would be more advantageous for you to stick with the grind for a few years and work hard to move forward and upward. However, if you feel that your manager is creating a toxic culture, you can stand up and talk to them about your concerns or report it in an effort to be a change-maker. Don't expect your efforts to positively impact your future at that company.

I always recommend continuously applying and interviewing at other companies to keep your options open and your interviewing skills sharp. If you feel that the situation is not improving and you are becoming burnt out, having other options can be helpful for your career.

Conclusion:

While 60-hour workweeks are common in Big Four accounting firms, especially during busy seasons, it is important to maintain a work-life balance. Communicate with your supervisors if you feel overwhelmed, and consider whether the stress and long hours are beneficial for your long-term career goals. If not, don't hesitate to explore other opportunities and make proactive changes to your career path.