16 Entry-Level Finance Jobs To Kickstart Your Career
Are you looking to start a career in finance? If so, then you’re in luck! There are plenty of entry-level finance jobs available that can provide the perfect opportunity for you to get your foot in the door and begin building up your experience. From accounting positions to financial analyst roles, there is something out there for everyone.
With these entry-level finance jobs, you can gain valuable skills and knowledge while getting paid at the same time. You’ll be able to develop an understanding of how different aspects of business work together as well as learn important concepts such as budgeting and forecasting. Plus, having this experience on your resume will open up even more opportunities down the road!
Start searching for entry-level finance jobs today!
What Are The Best Entry-Level Finance Jobs?
Here are the best options if you are looking to get started in Finance:
1) Financial Analyst
A corporate financial analyst is a professional who helps a company make sound financial decisions. They work to understand a company’s financial statements, expenses, and other financial data in order to provide insights that will help guide a company’s decisions.
In addition to understanding and analyzing a company’s financial data, corporate financial analysts also perform a variety of other tasks. They may be responsible for:
– Monitoring financial performance and making forecasts
– Preparing reports and presentations for management
– Analyzing trends and providing recommendations
– Assisting with budgeting and expense forecasting
2) Investment Banking Analyst
Investment banking analysts are entry-level professionals who provide support to associates and investment bankers. They build financial models, carry out financial analysis and due diligence, create presentations, conduct research, and handle support duties. While the job is considered entry-level, it is also a highly coveted position. Investment banks typically hire only the best and brightest from top MBA programs.
3) Data Analyst
A data analyst is a professional who collects, cleans, and interprets data sets in order to answer questions or solve problems. A data analyst’s day-to-day responsibilities vary depending on the industry and company. However, some of the most common tasks include data mining, data visualization, and statistical analysis using different software tools and programming languages.
4) Internal Auditor
An internal auditor is an individual who is responsible for assessing the effectiveness of a company’s internal control process. Internal auditors generally identify a department, gather an understanding of the current internal control process, conduct fieldwork testing, follow up with department staff about identified issues, prepare an official audit report, review the audit report with management, and follow up with management and the board of directors as needed to ensure recommendations have been implemented.
5) Junior Accountant
A junior accountant is an entry-level position in an accounting firm or department. Junior accountants are responsible for a variety of tasks, including posting journal entries, updating financial statements, maintaining accounts receivable and accounts payable, paying monthly payroll, and preparing financial reports. Junior accountants typically report to a senior accountant or accounting manager.
6) Financial Systems Analyst
A financial systems analyst is a financial professional responsible for implementing, maintaining and reviewing financial systems. They may also assist with developing, implementing and optimizing business application systems.
Financial systems analysts play a vital role in ensuring that an organization’s financial systems are running smoothly and efficiently. In addition, they may provide support to users of financial systems and assist with troubleshooting issues.
7) Tax Analyst
Tax analysts research and interpret tax regulations, prepare annual returns, prepare estimated payments, file amended returns, perform in-depth reviews of financial statements, manage a company’s tax compliance processes, and stay up to date on tax law changes. Tax analysts typically report to a senior tax professional or the chief financial officer.
8) Risk Management Analyst
Risk management analysts are financial professionals who help companies identify and manage risks associated with their operations. They analyze data to understand the potential risk of a company’s investments, operations, and other activities. Risk management analysts also develop strategies for minimizing potential losses and advise on ways to protect against liability. They typically report to a senior risk manager.
9) Credit Analyst
Credit analysts are responsible for evaluating credit applications and assessing the risk associated with granting credit to an applicant. They review financial statements, credit reports, and other documents in order to make a determination on whether or not to grant approval. Credit analysts may also be involved in setting up loan repayment plans, reviewing insurance policies, and performing audits.
10) Accounts Receivable Associate
An accounts receivable associate is a financial professional who is responsible for managing the collection of payments from customers. They may process invoices, track overdue accounts, analyze customer payment histories, liaise with customers regarding payment status and terms, prepare reports related to accounts receivable activity, and review daily cash receipts.
11) Accounts Payable Associate
An accounts payable associate is responsible for managing the payment of invoices and expenses in order to ensure accuracy and timely payments. They may process invoices, reconcile vendor statements, resolve discrepancies, track payments, prepare checks for mailing, and provide general administrative support.
12) Financial Planning Associate
Financial planning associates provide assistance to financial planners and advisors in areas such as investment analysis, tax planning, retirement planning, estate planning, budgeting and forecasting. They may also conduct research on financial markets and develop personalized financial plans for clients.
13) Business Analyst
Business analysts help organizations understand their data and identify areas for improvement. They may analyze customer behavior, develop financial models, prepare forecasts, study trends in the market, and recommend solutions to optimize performance.
14) Treasury Analyst
Treasury analysts manage a company’s corporate cash flow and liquidity. They analyze financial data, monitor credit and banking activities, develop plans for optimizing working capital, assess risk on foreign exchange transactions, recommend investment vehicles, and ensure compliance with internal regulations and external laws.
15) Finance Intern
Finance interns provide support to finance professionals in areas such as financial analysis, budgeting, forecasting, and reporting. Internships are an excellent opportunity for students to gain experience in the field of finance and can lead to full-time positions upon completion of their studies.
16) Accounting Intern
Accounting interns assist with various accounting tasks such as reconciling accounts, preparing financial statements, and processing invoices. Internships are a great way for students to gain experience in the field of accounting and can lead to full-time positions upon completion of their studies.
Basic Requirements For A Role In Finance
No matter which entry-level finance job you decide to pursue, there are some basic requirements that most employers will look for in a candidate:
- Bachelor’s degree in Finance or a related field
- Excellent math and analytical skills
- Ability to work with numbers and financial models
- Strong understanding of accounting principles and financial management
- Good organizational, problem-solving, and communication skills
- Ability to work independently with minimal supervision
- Experience with relevant software programs and databases
How To Get Started In Finance
Getting started in finance is as easy as doing some research and applying for positions that match your skill set. Here are a few tips to help you get started:
- Research the different types of jobs available in the finance industry and choose one that matches your interests.
- Network with professionals in the finance industry to learn more about their experiences and gain insight into the job market.
- Develop a strong resume and cover letter to demonstrate your skills and make yourself stand out from other applicants.
- Take advantage of professional certifications or courses to learn more about the finance industry.
- Research potential employers and prepare yourself for interviews by practicing common questions you may be asked.
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of degree do I need for an entry-level finance job?
Most entry-level finance jobs require at least a Bachelor’s degree in Finance or a related field. However, some positions may only require an Associate’s degree or even just relevant work experience.
What skills are needed for an entry-level finance position?
Entry-level finance jobs usually require excellent math and analytical skills, an understanding of accounting principles and financial management, good organizational and problem-solving skills, the ability to work independently with minimal supervision, and experience with relevant software programs.
Are there any online courses I can take to develop my knowledge in finance?
Yes, there are many online courses available that can help you develop your understanding of the finance industry. Courses such as Udemy and Coursera offer a range of topics in finance, ranging from basic financial literacy to more advanced concepts such as risk management and investing. These courses can provide valuable insight into the field and may even be necessary for certain entry-level finance roles.
Are there any certifications I can get to increase my chances of getting hired?
Yes, there are many professional certifications available that can give you a competitive edge in the job market. Certifications such as Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) and Certified Financial Planner (CFP) demonstrate to employers that you have the necessary knowledge and skills to excel in an entry-level finance role.
How can I network with professionals in the finance industry to learn more about their experiences?
Networking with professionals in the finance industry can be an invaluable way to gain insight into the job market and learn more about different roles. You can reach out to professionals on LinkedIn or other social media platforms, attend finance-related events, or even connect with alumni from your college or university. It’s important to make sure you do your research and are prepared to discuss relevant topics before reaching out.
What is the best way to prepare myself before applying for an entry-level finance job?
The best way to prepare yourself for an entry-level finance job is to make sure you have a strong resume and cover letter that demonstrate your skills and experience. You should also research potential employers and practice common questions that may be asked during interviews. Additionally, taking courses or obtaining certifications can give you a competitive edge in the job market.
Let’s Recap
Getting an entry-level finance job can be a competitive process, but with the right preparation and knowledge, you can increase your chances of success. Researching different types of jobs in the finance industry, networking with professionals to gain insight into their experiences, developing strong resumes and cover letters, taking advantage of professional certifications or courses to learn more about the field, researching potential employers, and practicing common interview questions are all important steps that should not be overlooked when applying for an entry-level finance role.
With hard work and dedication, you will soon find yourself on your way toward achieving career goals within this exciting industry!
Have any questions? Are there other topics you would like us to cover? Leave a comment below and let us know! Make sure to subscribe to our Newsletter to receive exclusive financial news right to your inbox. Thanks for reading and happy learning!
