Thinking about a career in finance but not sure where to begin? You’re in the right place! This guide will show you the 20 top entry-level finance jobs. They offer great pay, many career paths, and chances for growth.

Key Takeaways

• The finance industry has many entry-level jobs with good pay.
• Popular jobs include analysts, tax associates, auditors, and financial advisors.
• The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics says finance jobs will grow 8% from 2022 to 2032.
• You usually need an undergraduate degree, often in economics or math, for these jobs.
• Entry-level finance jobs pay around $64,239 a year, with an average of $52,936.

Understanding the Financial Industry Landscape

The financial industry is changing fast, with lots of growth and new trends. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics says jobs in finance will grow more than other jobs from 2022 to 2032. They expect about 911,400 new jobs every year.

Current Market Trends and Growth Projections

The finance job market is looking up, with a 8% growth over the next ten years. This growth comes from more complex financial rules, fintech, and more demand for financial services.

Diversity and Inclusion in Finance

Even with growth, finance still faces diversity and inclusion challenges. Women make up 43.9% of financial analysts, but there’s still work to do. The industry needs to be more inclusive for everyone.

Average Entry-Level Salaries in Finance

Salaries for new finance jobs vary by role and education. Engineering graduates in 2024 will start at $76,736, followed by computer science at $74,778. Business majors will start at about $63,907. The average entry-level finance salary is $52,936, with a median of $64,239.

Educational Requirements and Professional Development

To start in finance, you usually need a bachelor’s degree. Majors like finance, accounting, economics, or mathematics are top choices. But, continuing education and professional certifications can really boost your career.

Important finance certifications include the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) and Certified Public Accountant (CPA) licenses. The Securities Industry Essentials (SIE) exam is also key. It shows you know the basics of the industry.

Getting hands-on experience through internships is key. Big firms in the financial industry often hire through campus programs. This gives students a chance to get in and learn.

Staying current with industry trends is vital. Attend conferences, join networking events, and take extra courses. This keeps your skills sharp and makes you more attractive to employers.

Best Entry Level Jobs in Finance

Starting a career in finance can be thrilling and rewarding. It offers many entry-level jobs for different interests and skills. You can choose from investment banking, corporate finance, or risk management. These fields offer great chances for new professionals to begin their journey.

Investment Banking and Analysis Roles

An investment banking analyst is a highly sought-after job. They work with experienced bankers on financial models, market research, and deals. These analysts can make between $93,128 and $193,452 a year, making it a good starting salary.

Financial analysts are also in demand. They help companies make smart choices by analyzing data and predicting trends. In 2022, they earned a median of $96,220, with a 8% job growth expected by 2032.

Corporate Finance Positions

Corporate finance jobs are great for those who love understanding a company’s finances. Jobs like credit analysts, budget analysts, and FP&A analysts are key. They help manage money and make strategic plans.

Risk Management and Insurance Jobs

The finance world also has roles in risk management and insurance. Risk analysts find and manage risks for companies. Insurance claims adjusters settle claims fairly for policyholders.

No matter your interest, finance has many entry-level jobs for those ready to start. Use your skills, education, and love for finance to find the right job for you.

Essential Skills and Certifications for Finance Careers

Starting a finance career needs a mix of skills and certifications. Knowing how to do financial analysis, use Excel, and model finances is key. Also, understanding accounting, risk, and rules is very important.

Getting recognized certifications can boost your finance career. The Certified Public Accountant (CPA), Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA), and Certified Financial Planner (CFP) are top choices. Also, getting FINRA licenses like Series 7 and Series 63 is crucial for trading and advice roles.

Finance pros also need to be good at talking, solving problems, and paying attention to details. These finance skills help deal with the industry’s challenges and get finance industry licenses.

• Proficiency in financial analysis, Excel, and financial modeling
• Knowledge of accounting principles, risk analysis, and financial regulations
• Financial certifications such as CPA, CFA, and CFP
• FINRA licenses like Series 7 and Series 63
• Strong communication, problem-solving, and attention to detail

By improving these finance skills and getting the right financial certifications, you can set yourself up for success. This opens doors to many rewarding jobs in the finance industry.

Breaking Into the Finance Industry

Aspiring finance pros, don’t worry! Getting into the industry might seem tough, but you can do it. Here are the main steps to start your finance career.

Internship Opportunities

Internships are key in finance. Top firms offer summer internships or symposia. These give students real-world experience and important connections. About 43% of finance interns get a job after completing their duties.

Networking Strategies

Networking is crucial for finance jobs. Go to industry events, connect with alumni, and join professional groups. This helps you grow your network and learn about the finance world. Good connections can lead to mentorship, interviews, and jobs.

Interview Preparation Tips

Preparation is everything in finance interviews. Know the company and job well. Be ready to talk about market trends and your career goals. Show your skills, knowledge, and love for finance. A good interview can really help you stand out.

Breaking into finance needs a smart plan, hard work, and a chance-taking attitude. With the right mindset and steps, you can reach a fulfilling career in this exciting field.

Conclusion

The finance industry has many entry-level jobs with good pay and growth. It faces challenges like needing more diversity. But, it keeps changing with new tech and market shifts.

Getting the right education and skills is key. This way, finance newcomers can find rewarding jobs in many areas.

Jobs in finance are expected to grow 8% by 2030. Financial analysts will see a 6% increase in jobs. Companies need finance experts to make big financial decisions.

This ensures the company’s growth and stability. It also opens doors for career advancement.

Jobs in investment banking, corporate finance, and risk management are just a few examples. These entry-level positions offer a strong start for a successful career. Knowing the industry, education needs, and key skills helps navigate into finance.

This knowledge lets people take advantage of the bright future ahead in finance.