Check out your options to find the best career fit based on your interests, skills, and education level.
As a financial analyst, you help businesses or individuals make investment decisions. Typically, you need at least a bachelor’s degree to get started in this field, but some employers may prefer a master’s degree. You may need to earn a Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) credential to qualify for many financial analyst positions.
Salary: According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), financial analysts earn a median annual salary of $85,660
Personal financial advisers help individuals manage their money to meet their short- and long-term goals. From planning for retirement to figuring out how to pay for college, advisers identify different options and help individuals make the most of their money, such as through special tax exemptions or incentives.
You’ll need a minimum of a bachelor’s degree, and it helps to have taken courses in finance, accounting, and economics.
Salary: Per the BLS, personal financial advisers earn a median annual salary of $87,850
These professionals develop and maintain customer relationships. They must have solid knowledge of the bank’s products and services and be able to convey the benefits of these offerings to potential and current clients. Typically, this job requires a bachelor’s degree, although some institutions may consider candidates with a high school diploma and experience or related coursework.
Salary: Per PayScale, relationship managers in the banking industry earn an average annual salary of $83,574
One of the most well-known financial positions, accountants analyze, plan, and evaluate business expenses and income. Many accountants have a bachelor’s degree only, but a master’s degree is useful, too. You may also need to sit for the Certified Public Accountant (CPA) exam, especially if you want to work for a public accounting firm.
Salary: According to the BLS, accountants earn a median annual salary of $71,550
Auditors review accounting records, ensuring accuracy and compliance with regulations and state and federal laws. Typically, auditors can get started in this field with a bachelor’s degree, although some may choose to become Certified Bank Auditors (CBA) by completing a four-part multiple choice exam over the course of three years.
Salary: According to the BLS, accountants earn a median annual salary of $71,550
Branch managers oversee operations, including hiring and training staff. Typically, branch managers set sales goals and manage the branch’s budget.
Successful branch managers have excellent customer service, organizational, and communication skills.
To get started in this job, you will likely need a bachelor’s degree and you may need to pass series 6 or 7 exams administered by Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA)
Salary: PayScale report that branch managers earn an average annual salary of $59,185.
Loan officers help people identify and apply for loans, from mortgages to personal loans. They evaluate the candidates’ job history, income, and overall creditworthiness. Loan officers typically have a background and education in finance or economics. Being a loan officer is a great career choice if you like working with people.
Salary: According to the BLS, loan officers earn a median annual salary of $63,270
While collectors tend to get a bad reputation, they play a pivotal role for companies. They manage accounts and keep track of bills and attempt to collect on past due invoices. Many collector positions require just a high school diploma, but a bachelor’s degree is welcome.
Salary: PayScale reports that collectors earn an average annual salary of $40,202
Bank tellers are usually the first person a customer sees their banking business. Bank tellers cash checks, accept deposits, and process account withdrawals. Most bank tellers have a high school diploma but holding an associate’s or bachelor’s degree can be helpful for those bank tellers who want to move up in the ranks to become a loan officer, personal banker, or bank manager jobs.
Salary: According to the BLS, bank tellers earn a median annual salary of $31,230
Treasurers manage an organization’s finances, objectives, and goals. They maintain the organization’s budget and oversee investment strategies and major expenditures. Most treasurer positions require advanced degrees, such as a master’s or Ph.D. Also, having other banking and finance credentials can be helpful.
Salary: PayScale reports that treasurers earn an average annual salary of $86,955