You might think you already know what the finance industry looks like, even if you’ve never worked in it. Maybe you imagine people in suits shouting numbers on the floor of the New York Stock Exchange or executives in a sleek skyscraper office barking orders to “buy!” or “sell!” And sure, that’s one part of finance—though many trading floors have quieted down or closed with the shift to electronic trading. But finance careers go far beyond investing, and it’s worth exploring your options before deciding which path to take.
SEARCH ALL JOBS
A lot of people jump into finance dreaming of high-stakes investment roles, says Muse career coach Tara Goodfellow, a former finance pro and founder of Athena Consultants, where she guides job seekers entering the field. But instead of chasing the flashiest or most lucrative option, think about what aligns with your personality, strengths, and values.
Goodfellow suggests reflecting on your degree—which classes did you love? Which bored you? What excited you most? Past internships can also help pinpoint what you enjoy. Do you perform well under pressure? Are long hours manageable? Investment banking or trading might suit you. Love building relationships? Consider financial planning, advising, or consumer banking. Prefer crunching numbers behind the scenes in a lower-stress role? Look into actuarial work or quantitative analysis. If finance interests you but not the industry itself, accounting, compliance, or budget roles in other sectors—like tech, healthcare, or government—could be a fit.
No matter which path you choose, competition is fierce. Picking a role that plays to your strengths helps you “tell a story about why you’re a great fit,” Goodfellow says, setting you apart from the crowd.
Check out this list of 11 finance careers (with data from O*NET and the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics) to find your match. We’ve included salaries—many finance roles offer earning potential (and starting pay) well above the U.S. median household income of $68,703 (2019). Note: Many finance jobs also include commissions, bonuses, or profit sharing, and listed salaries may reflect entry-level positions.
Job titles can vary across companies, so review O*NET listings and read job descriptions carefully to find the best fit.
1. Accountant or Auditor
- Median U.S. salary (Accountants): $51,410
- Median U.S. salary (Auditors): $57,111
Accountants and auditors analyze financial records, prepare statements, advise on cost-saving strategies, and ensure compliance with tax laws. Auditors focus specifically on proper fund management.
While many entry-level accountants aim for the “Big Four” (Deloitte, PwC, EY, KPMG), Goodfellow notes that every industry needs accountants—from government to tech to nonprofits.
Skills needed: Detail orientation, problem-solving, and knowledge of accounting principles (usually via a four-year degree). Certifications like CPA boost job prospects.
2. Credit Analyst
- Median U.S. salary: $51,500
Credit analysts assess individuals’ or companies’ financial history to determine lending risks. They work for banks, credit card firms, insurers, and investment companies.
Skills needed: Analytical thinking, decision-making, and a finance/accounting degree. Some roles require a CFA credential.
3. Brokers and Traders
- Median U.S. salary (Brokers): $58,031
- Median U.S. salary (Traders): $73,674
Brokers and traders buy/sell securities (stocks, bonds, etc.). Traders execute orders for fund managers, while brokers work directly with clients and must grow their own business. Both need a bachelor’s degree and FINRA licenses.
Find broker jobs on The Muse
Find trader jobs on The Muse
4. Financial Analyst
- Median U.S. salary: $61,143
A common entry-level role, financial analysts guide investment decisions, assess market performance, and report findings. They work for banks, investment firms, or corporations.
Skills needed: Strong math/analytical skills, attention to detail, and stamina for long hours (O*NET rates stress tolerance at 88/100). A finance degree helps; CFA or MBA aids advancement.
5. Budget Analyst
- Median U.S. salary: $61,381
Budget analysts develop and monitor organizational spending plans. They work in private companies, government, and nonprofits.
Skills needed: Analytical and communication skills. A degree in accounting or similar is typical; some roles prefer an MBA or CGFM credential for government work.
6. Personal Financial Planners and Advisors
- Median U.S. salary (Advisors): $63,528
- Median U.S. salary (CFPs): $67,252
These professionals help clients with investments, long-term planning, and portfolio management. Some work for firms; others are self-employed.
Skills needed: Interpersonal skills, investment knowledge, and entrepreneurial drive (for client-building). CFPs need certification.
7. Risk Specialist
- Median U.S. salary: $64,787
Risk specialists evaluate financial risks for banks, insurers, and investment firms. They analyze market trends, earning potential, and company stability.
Skills needed: Problem-solving, math, and reasoning skills. A finance/math/economics degree is typical; an MBA or international business focus helps.
8. Financial Examiners
- Median U.S. salary: $65,171
Financial examiners ensure compliance with laws by reviewing financial records. They work for governments (investigating fraud) or private firms (ensuring stability).
Skills needed: Attention to detail, analytical skills, and an accounting/finance degree. A CPA credential can be beneficial.
9. Quantitative Analyst
- Median U.S. salary: $84,266
“Quants” develop complex financial models for pricing, trading, and risk assessment. They work for investment banks, hedge funds, or fintech firms.
Skills needed: Advanced math/stats skills, programming knowledge, and usually a master’s/PhD in math, finance, or financial engineering.
10. Actuary
- Median U.S. salary: $91,729
Actuaries calculate risks (e.g., accidents, property damage) and design insurance policies. They work for insurers, governments, or investment firms.
Skills needed: Exceptional math skills, a degree in actuarial science/finance, and certification (CAS or SOA). The field is growing fast (18% by 2029) and is relatively low-stress.
11. Investment Banker
- Estimated U.S. salary: $100,428
Investment bankers help companies/governments raise capital via stocks, bonds, mergers, and more. Salaries (with bonuses) can exceed $400K, but the job is high-stress and competitive.