Finance and accounting fields offer aspiring candidates an ever-growing supply of job opportunities. So, if you’re interested in an exciting and competitive career or are searching for ways to understand the inner workings of businesses, a career in finance may be the answer for you. According to Kiplinger, finance is amongst the top twenty-five degree majors for students looking for lucrative job opportunities. Furthermore, financial advisor and analyst positions are expected to grow by 11 percent or more over the next ten years. Not to mention, starting salaries in the field hover around 56,000 dollars per year.

That said, entry-level jobs in the finance field are well-known for their high pays and on-the-job benefits. So, although the chances are that you might not land your dream job right after graduation, there are plenty of entry-level opportunities that you can take on to evolve and experience growth in the field once you’ve set your foot through the door. In fact, you may be surprised at the variety of finance jobs available to you right after finishing business school. That said, listed below are a few entry-level finance jobs that are worth pursuing in 2022!

Financial Analyst

A financial analyst’s job is to offer sound investment advice to individuals and businesses. Such a thing typically involves analyzing the investment market and identifying the best stocks, bonds, and other investment media that suits their client’s financial requirements. That said, every CFO typically starts off as a financial analyst. So, consider applying for such a career if you want to know how to become a CFO. Also known as securities analysts or investment analysts, most financial analysts work inside securities firms, insurance companies, banks, or similar organizations. A few other duties include but are not limited to operating in both buy-side and sell-side investments, ensuring an individual or business’s financial health, and more. 

To work as a financial analyst, applicants need to obtain a bachelor’s degree in finance, accounting, business management, or a related field. A financial analyst’s median annual salary is around 85,600 dollars. 

Accountant

Most finance-based jobs require sound accounting skills and knowledge. However, that doesn’t mean that businesses don’t really need an accountant at the helm. These professionals can typically find work on the payroll for large companies, accounting firms, or independent contractors. Generally, an accountant has to assist a company with budgeting while monitoring its annual and quarterly expenses and earnings. In addition, the job also entails reviewing ledger accounts and keeping track of financial records.

To work as a professional accountant, aspiring candidates will have to obtain a bachelor’s degree in accounting, business management, finance, or a similar field. Furthermore, becoming a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) will improve your chances of employment at a reputable accounting firm or organization. An accountant’s median salary is around 64,250 dollars per year.  

Budget Analyst

It is a budget analyst’s job to help organizations and businesses with annual budgets, allowing them to track and achieve their financial goals and objectives. They also have to run financial reports, assess a company’s funding needs, and help them make operational decisions for one-time and ongoing expenses. So, if you have a passion for numbers and love to collaborate, a budget analyst’s position might be the right fit for you.

Typically, a financial analyst can find work in both the private and public sectors, with around 20 percent of budget analysts’ jobs in the government sector. Meaning, you will be able to enjoy good starting pay and excellent on-the-job benefits. A bachelor’s degree is usually required to work as a budget analyst. Accounting and finance degrees are excellent choices for areas of study if you want to work as a budget analyst. A budget analyst’s median salary is around 74,000 dollars per year. However, if you’re planning to apply for a government position, consider obtaining the Certified Government Financial management certification from the Association of Government Accountants. 

Actuary

it is an actuary’s responsibility to analyze the consequences and risks of business decisions. These professionals typically have a solid mathematical background. Not to mention excellent financial statistics and theory know-how. Furthermore, an actuary must make well-thought-out guesses about uncertain decisions and future trends to ensure that a business can make effective strategic financial decisions. An actuary can also work as a financial consultant.

That said, these professionals are commonly employed by large corporations, investment firms, insurance companies, or organizations that analyze financial risk. Therefore, remain prepared for a high-reward, high-risk job if you take this career path. To work as an actuary, you’ll have to obtain a bachelor’s degree in mathematics, statistics, and finance. An actuary’s average entry-level salary is around 56,000 per year. However, you will be able to earn a six-figure salary if you have previous working experience as an actuary. 

Conclusion

After you graduate with a finance, accounting, or related degree, you need to remain determined, committed, and most importantly, patient. Every finance or accounting graduate will be looking for a high-paying entry-level finance job, so expect to face some fierce competition. After all, the accounting and finance fields are aggressively competitive, especially if you want to make serious money and experience growth in the career path you take. Sure, you might not be able to land your dream job right away. However, you will get plenty of opportunities to move around, evolve, and find your place.