Top 10 Highest Paying Finance Jobs

The finance industry is dynamic and ever-changing, offering lucrative opportunities for those equipped with the right skills.

According to recent statistics, nearly one million new positions will open annually in the U.S. over the next decade, largely due to retirees and career changes.

But what do finance jobs pay?

In this article, we display the highest paying finance jobs to pursue along with their responsibilities and growth potential, including insights into how entry level finance jobs pay in today’s market.

Table of Contents

• Why Consider a Career in Finance?
• Jobs with a Finance Degree
• Steps to Land the Highest Paying Jobs in Finance
• Top 10 Highest Paying Finance Jobs
• Entry Level Finance Jobs Pay
• What Skills You Need to Get High Paying Finance Jobs
• FAQs

Why Consider a Career in Finance?

A career in finance offers numerous benefits, including high earning potential, job stability, and a wide range of career paths. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), nearly one million new jobs in finance are expected to open annually in the U.S. over the next decade, driven largely by retirements and career changes.

The sector is home to many high paying corporate jobs, providing opportunities in various areas such as investment banking, financial planning, risk management, and more.

Additionally, the skills gained are transferable and highly valued across industries, offering flexibility and career growth. With advancements in technology and globalization, the demand for skilled finance professionals continues to rise, making it a promising field for long-term career prospects.

But what jobs can you get with a finance degree?

Jobs with a Finance Degree

A finance degree opens the door to a variety of career opportunities, each offering unique challenges and rewards. Overall, a finance degree equips you with the foundational knowledge needed to succeed in some of the best jobs in finance.

Whether you’re interested in the fast-paced world of investment banking, the analytical depth of financial analysis, or the strategic responsibilities of a CFO, a related degree provides the foundational knowledge needed to succeed, along with a promising finance salary.

Here are several high paying careers in finance for graduates to pursue:

• Investment Banking: Focus on raising capital, mergers and acquisitions, and financial advisory services. It generally offers lucrative entry level finance jobs pay.
• Corporate Finance: Work within a corporation to manage financial activities, including budgeting, forecasting, and investment analysis. The field is known for providing high paying careers in finance.
• Financial Planning: Help individuals and businesses plan for their financial futures, including retirement planning, investment advice, and risk management.
• Risk Management: Assess and mitigate financial risks for organizations, including credit, market, and operational risks.
• Wealth Management: Provide comprehensive financial services to high-net-worth individuals, including investment management, estate planning, and tax planning. The field offers some of the highest paying finance jobs.
• Public Accounting: Finance majors salary in this field largely depends on the specialization. Some work in auditing, tax planning, and consulting for public accounting firms.
• Economics and Research: Analyze economic trends and data to advise on policy and business decisions.
• Real Estate Finance: Focus on the financial aspects of property investments, including valuation, financing, and development.

A finance degree equips you with critical thinking skills, analytical abilities, and a deep understanding of financial markets, all of which are essential for success in these roles. It’s good to know how entry level finance jobs pay to plan your career trajectory well.

Bonus Insight: Top colleges for high paying jobs in finance include—Harvard University, University of Pennsylvania (Wharton), Stanford University, Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), and London School of Economics.

Steps to Land the Highest Paying Jobs in Finance

Here are key steps to help you get an interview for some of the best jobs in finance.

1.     Earn a Bachelor’s Degree

A strong foundation in finance typically begins with a bachelor’s degree in finance, accounting, business administration, or economics. This foundational education equips you with essential knowledge in financial principles, accounting practices, and economic theories, which are crucial for landing some of the highest paying finance jobs.

2.     Pursue a Master’s Degree

While not always required, a master’s degree in finance, business administration (MBA), or a related field can significantly enhance your career prospects and a corporate finance salary. Advanced degrees offer specialized knowledge in areas such as investment analysis, corporate finance, and financial management. They also provide opportunities to develop critical thinking and analytical skills, which are highly valued in the finance industry. High paying corporate jobs usually require a postgraduate degree to qualify for the role.

3.     Develop Specialized Skills

In addition to formal education, acquiring specific skills can set you apart in the finance job market, opening doors to various jobs you can get with a finance degree. Key competencies include financial modeling, proficiency in financial software (such as Excel and Bloomberg), and strong analytical abilities. Communication skills are also crucial, as finance professionals often need to present complex financial information to non-experts in a clear and concise manner.

Bonus Insight: Get future-ready for a successful finance career from the comfort of your home—enroll in our complete finance training and gain the skills you need to succeed.

4.     Gain Relevant Experience

Hands-on experience can open doors to high paying corporate jobs in the industry. Internships, co-op programs, and entry-level positions in finance or accounting roles provide practical exposure to the industry. These experiences help you apply theoretical knowledge, understand workplace dynamics, and build a professional network. Additionally, gaining experience in various functions, such as investment banking, asset management, or corporate finance, is a prerequisite for landing high paying finance jobs.

But how do you gain relevant experience? Participate in our real-world finance projects and add them to your resume to show employers your involvement and expertise.

5.     Obtain Professional Certifications

Many high paying finance jobs require advanced credentials. Earning professional certifications can enhance your credentials and demonstrate your commitment to the field. Certifications such as the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA), Certified Public Accountant (CPA), or Certified Financial Planner (CFP) are highly regarded in the finance industry.

Bonus Insight: Our rigorous training gives you a verifiable certificate to proof your finance skills to prospective employers. Sign up for free now.  

Top 10 Highest Paying Finance Jobs

Professionals in some of the highest paying finance jobs often have specialized skills and extensive experience, making them highly sought after in the market, hence well-paid. Understanding the finance average salary for various roles can help you gauge potential earnings and career growth opportunities.

Here are ten of the highest paying finance jobs, highlighting key responsibilities and salary prospects.

Job Title	Description	Salary Range
Chief Financial Officer (CFO)	Senior executives managing financial activities and strategies, including risk management and planning.	$142,000 – $250,000 (Average: $187,000)
Chief Compliance Officer (CCO)	Ensures regulatory and legal compliance, implements policies, and mitigates financial and operational risks.	$91,000 – $278,000 (Average: $159,000)
Investment Banker	Advises on mergers, acquisitions, and capital raising; key players in financial markets and transactions.	$108,000 – $201,000 (Average: $144,000)
Portfolio Managers	Manages investment portfolios, develops strategies, and monitors market trends for optimal returns.	$99,000 – $167,000 (Average: $129,000)
Hedge Fund Managers	Oversees hedge funds, develops strategies, and manages high-net-worth clients’ investments.	$94,000 – $160,000 (Average: $122,000)
Credit Risk Managers	Assesses and manages credit risk, develops risk models and policies, and collaborates with departments.	$100,000 – $125,000
Economists	Analyzes economic trends, develops models, and advises on policy and business strategies.	$80,000 – $200,000 (Average: $115,000)
Financial Analyst	Evaluates financial data, conducts market research, and provides investment recommendations.	$95,000 – $160,000
Financial Advisor	Provides personalized financial advice, including investment and estate planning for clients.	$80,000 – $148,000
Accountant	Manages financial records, ensures compliance, conducts audits, and advises on tax and financial strategies.	$78,000 – $132,690

Highest Paying Finance Jobs: Chief Financial Officer (CFO)

Role Overview: CFOs are senior executives responsible for managing an organization’s financial activities, including financial planning, risk management, and ensuring that financial strategies align with the company’s overall objectives. As one of the high paying careers in finance, they play a crucial role in the decision-making process and work closely with other top executives to shape the company’s strategic direction.

Key Responsibilities:

• Overseeing financial reporting and compliance.
• Managing the company’s financial planning and analysis.
• Directing investment activities and managing capital structure.
• Risk management and mitigation.
• Liaising with shareholders, investors, and other stakeholders.
• Developing strategies for long-term financial goals.

Qualifications:

• Advanced degree (e.g., MBA) and significant leadership experience.
• Professional certifications like CPA or Chartered Global Management Accountant (CGMA).

Finance Average Salary: CFOs are among the highest paying finance jobs and enjoy salaries between $142,000 and $250,000 annually, with an average annual salary of $187,000.

Highest Paying Finance Jobs: Chief Compliance Officer (CCO)

Role Overview: CCOs ensure that the organization adheres to regulatory and legal standards, mitigating financial and operational risks. They are responsible for implementing compliance programs and policies and monitoring the company’s adherence to these standards to avoid legal issues and financial penalties.

Key Responsibilities:

• Developing and overseeing corporate compliance programs.
• Ensuring compliance with regulatory and legal standards.
• Conducting audits and assessments to identify compliance risks.
• Training and educating employees on compliance matters.
• Liaising with regulatory bodies and managing external audits.
• Investigating and resolving compliance issues.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field and an MBA.

Finance Average Salary: Falling into the top 3 highest paying finance jobs, CCOs command salaries ranging from $91,000 to $278,000, with an average base compensation of $159,000.

Highest Paying Finance Jobs: Investment Bankers

Role Overview: Investment bankers play a vital role in advising corporations, governments, and other entities on financial transactions. This includes mergers and acquisitions, raising capital, and other financial services. They are key players in the financial markets, facilitating the flow of capital and investments.

Key Responsibilities:

• Advising clients on mergers, acquisitions, and capital raising.
• Structuring and executing complex financial transactions.
• Conducting financial analysis and valuation.
• Developing financial models and preparing pitch books.
• Negotiating deals and liaising with legal advisors.
• Building relationships with clients and potential investors.

Qualifications:

• Finance or business degree, preferably an MBA.

Finance Average Salary: Salaries range from $108,000 to $201,000, with an average of $144,000. Significant bonuses can enhance total earnings.

Bonus Insight: Discover more about investment banking career prospects in our latest investment banking job market report.

Highest Paying Finance Jobs: Portfolio Managers

Role Overview: Portfolio managers are responsible for making investment decisions and managing investment portfolios for clients or institutions. They analyze market trends, economic conditions, and financial information to determine the best investment strategies.

Key Responsibilities:

• Developing and implementing investment strategies.
• Managing asset allocation and diversification.
• Monitoring portfolio performance and adjusting strategies as needed.
• Conducting market research and financial analysis.
• Communicating with clients regarding portfolio performance and investment strategy.
• Ensuring compliance with investment regulations.

Qualifications:

• MBA or master’s in finance.
• Significant experience in investment analysis.
• Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) certification is highly valued.

Finance Average Salary: Portfolio managers can expect to earn between $99,000 and $167,000 annually, with an average base pay of around $129,000. This role is among the best jobs in finance due to its high earning potential and significant responsibility.

Highest Paying Finance Jobs: Hedge Fund Managers

Role Overview: Hedge fund managers oversee hedge funds, which involve pooled investments in a range of assets to achieve high returns. As one of the high paying careers in finance, they use a variety of strategies to manage risks and maximize returns, often working with high-net-worth individuals or institutional investors.

Key Responsibilities:

• Developing investment strategies and managing hedge fund portfolios.
• Conducting deep financial and market analysis.
• Monitoring and adjusting portfolio risk levels.
• Communicating with investors and reporting on fund performance.
• Managing fund operations and compliance with regulatory standards.
• Networking to raise capital from investors.

Qualifications:

• Master’s degree in finance, economics, or a related field.
• Minimum of 10 years of financial experience, particularly in investments.
• Chartered Hedge Fund Associate (CHA) certification can boost career prospects.

Finance Average Salary: Hedge fund managers typically earn between $94,000 and $160,000, with an average salary of $122,000.

Highest Paying Finance Jobs: Credit Risk Managers

Role Overview: Credit risk managers are responsible for assessing and managing the credit risk of a financial institution’s lending and investment portfolios. They develop risk models and policies to ensure that the institution’s risk exposure remains within acceptable limits. It’s becoming a popular choice among the jobs you can get with a finance degree.

Key Responsibilities:

• Developing and implementing credit risk assessment models.
• Monitoring credit risk exposure and identifying potential risks.
• Establishing credit risk policies and guidelines.
• Conducting credit analysis and due diligence for new loans and investments.
• Reporting on credit risk exposure to senior management.
• Collaborating with other departments to manage risk effectively.

Qualifications:

• Specialized master’s degree focused on quantitative studies.

Finance Average Salary: Credit risk managers earn an average salary of $125,000.

Economists

Role Overview: Top colleges for high paying jobs in finance produce graduates who often excel as economists, benefiting from a strong educational foundation. They work in various sectors, including government, academia, and private industry, analyzing how economic conditions affect markets and public policy.

Key Responsibilities:

• Analyzing economic trends and data.
• Conducting research on economic issues and policies.
• Developing economic models and forecasts.
• Advising on economic policy and strategy.
• Publishing research findings and reports.
• Teaching and mentoring students (in academic roles).

Qualifications:

• Master’s degree in economics or mathematics.
• A Ph.D. is often beneficial for advancing in the field.

Finance Average Salary: Economists’ salaries range from $80,000 to $200,000 annually, with an average of $115,000.

Highest Paying Finance Jobs: Financial Analysts

Role Overview: Financial analysts evaluate financial data to guide investment decisions and business strategies. They analyze trends, financial performance, and economic conditions to provide insights and recommendations to businesses and investors.

Key Responsibilities:

• Analyzing financial statements and performance metrics.
• Conducting market research and economic analysis.
• Developing financial models and forecasts.
• Preparing reports and presentations for management and clients.
• Advising on investment opportunities and risks.
• Monitoring market trends and competitor performance.

Qualifications:

• Postgraduate degree in finance, economics, statistics, or business.
• Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) certification is beneficial.

Finance Average Salary: Financial analysts earn an average base salary of around $95,000, with top earners exceeding $160,000. Understanding the finance average salary for this position is crucial for setting realistic career expectations.

Industry Outlook: The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects an 8% growth in financial analyst roles, with 27,400 new jobs annually by 2032.

Highest Paying Finance Jobs: Financial Advisors

Role Overview: Financial advisors provide personalized financial advice to individuals and organizations. They help clients plan for their financial future, including investments, retirement, and estate planning, by assessing their financial situation and goals.

Key Responsibilities:

• Assessing clients’ financial needs and goals.
• Developing financial plans and strategies.
• Advising on investment options and insurance policies.
• Assisting with retirement and estate planning.
• Monitoring clients’ financial situations and adjusting plans as needed.
• Maintaining client relationships and providing ongoing support.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in finance, accounting, business, or economics.
• A master’s degree is recommended for career advancement.
• Certified Financial Planner (CFP) designation adds credibility.

Finance Average Salary: The average base salary for financial advisors is around $80,000, with top earners making over $148,000. As such, it is ranked among the highest paying finance jobs.

Highest Paying Finance Jobs: Accountants

Role Overview: Accountants ensure that financial records are accurate and that taxes are paid properly and on time. They also perform audits and advise on financial efficiency and compliance, playing a key role in the financial health of organizations. The highest paying accounting jobs typically require specialized certifications and extensive experience in the field.

Key Responsibilities:

• Preparing and examining financial records.
• Ensuring accuracy and compliance with laws and regulations.
• Managing tax filings and advising on tax strategies.
• Conducting audits and assessments of financial operations.
• Analyzing financial data to recommend financial strategies.
• Providing advice on financial planning and cost management.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in accounting, economics, or business.
• CPA certification is highly regarded.
• An MBA can enhance career progression.

Finance Average Salary: The average base salary for accountants is around $78,000 annually, with top earners exceeding $132,690.

Entry Level Finance Jobs Pay

For those just starting in the finance industry, several entry-level positions offer competitive salaries and strong growth potential. These roles provide an enticing entry level finance jobs pay leading up to higher-paying positions over time. Here are some high-salary entry-level finance careers.

Financial Analyst

• Average Starting Salary: $60,000 – $70,000
• Key Responsibilities: Analyzing financial data, creating financial models, and preparing reports for management.
• Qualifications: Bachelor’s degree in finance, economics, or related fields; CFA certification beneficial.

Investment Banking Analyst

• Average Starting Salary: $70,000 – $90,000
• Key Responsibilities: Assisting in mergers and acquisitions, financial modeling, and preparing pitch books.
• Qualifications: Bachelor’s degree in finance or business; strong analytical and quantitative skills.

Risk Management Analyst

• Average Starting Salary: $55,000 – $65,000
• Key Responsibilities: Identifying and analyzing potential risks, developing risk mitigation strategies, and reporting findings.
• Qualifications: Bachelor’s degree in finance, economics, or a related field; strong analytical skills.

Financial Planner

• Average Starting Salary: $50,000 – $60,000
• Key Responsibilities: Assisting clients with financial planning, retirement savings, and investment strategies.
• Qualifications: Bachelor’s degree in finance, accounting, or business; CFP designation beneficial.

Public Accountant

• Average Starting Salary: $55,000 – $65,000
• Key Responsibilities: Auditing financial statements, preparing tax returns, and providing consulting services.
• Qualifications: Bachelor’s degree in accounting; CPA certification is highly recommended.

Knowing the finance average salary for entry-level roles can help you make informed decisions about your career path.

What Skills You Need to Get High Paying Finance Jobs

High finance salaries come to those with the right skills and qualifications. As the sector continues to grow and evolve, staying informed about the top-paying roles and their requirements is crucial. Finance jobs that pay over 200K per annual are attainable with the right training.

Whether you’re starting or considering a career shift, understanding these positions can help you make informed decisions and get flying offers for high paying finance jobs.

Let us help you on your way to landing your dream job in the field. Get in-demand finance skills with our complete training today.

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