Okay, let’s tackle this. So Jerry Knauer has a strong background in accounting and auditing, which are in demand. He’s also a CPA, which is a professional certification that adds credibility. Location is Baltimore, MD, which is a mid-sized city with a growing economy. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, accountants and auditors in the Baltimore area can earn around $80,000–$120,000 per year. Considering his skills and experience, I’d estimate his hourly rate to be around $125, which is slightly below the national average for accountants and auditors.