Thanks to a growing economy and an increasingly complex tax system, accounting, and finance professions are growing exponentially. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, accounting and financial occupations are projected to grow 7 percent over the next 10 years, outpacing the average for all occupations. 

As the financial and accounting industry grows, organizations are expanding operations and looking for skilled professionals to fill their open positions. Here’s a look at some of the fastest growing occupations in the accounting and finance industry.  

 

Financial Analyst

 

Median Salary: $85,660

Expected Growth: 6% over the next 10 years 

Companies rely on Financial Analysts to interpret financial data to help them make wise business decisions. These finance professionals need to be able to analyze large amounts of data in order to create financial models that can help predict the possible results of business decisions. They should be aware of market trends and macroeconomic conditions in order to make sound recommendations.

 

Accountant

 

Median Salary: $70,500

Expected Growth: 6% over the next 10 years 

According to CareerBuilder, accountants prepare financial documents and ensure their accuracy. For many entry-level accounting jobs, all you need is an associate’s degree. But if you want to keep your career moving forward, many mid-level accounting jobs require a bachelor’s degree and beyond. If you are interested in entering the profession, you should also consider becoming a Certified Public Accountant (CPA). Although accountants can prepare compiled financial statements, only a CPA can prepare an audited financial statement or reviewed financial statements. 

 

Personal Financial Advisor

 

Median Salary: $88,890

Expected Growth: 7% over the next 10 years

Financial Advisors help people plan for their financial goals, whether it be retirement, putting their kids through college or buying a new home. Financial Advisors should have an in-depth understanding of investing and be able to give solid investment guidance to their clients. These finance professionals can work for investment firms, but many are self-employed. For those that are self-employed, recruiting new clients is a large part of the job.

 

Budget Analyst

 

Median Salary: $76,220

Expected Growth: 4% over the next 10 years 

Organizations rely on Budget Analysts to ensure their finances are in order and to keep a balanced budget. They are typically a valuable part of any financial decision a business makes, running regular financial reports and advising business leaders on funding and expenses. Budget Analysts are vital for ensuring profitability and achieving financial goals.

 

Loan Officer

 

Median Salary: $63,040

Expected Growth: 8% over the next 10 years

If an individual or business needs a loan, a Loan Officer is the one responsible for evaluating and approving (or not approving) the loan. They are typically part of a bank or other financial institution who helps borrowers throughout the application process. While some may help businesses obtain loans, most work in the mortgage industry, helping individuals and families finance their homes. 

 

It’s clear that there are ample career opportunities in the accounting and finance sector. If you’re ready to take advantage of the growth this industry will experience in the next 10 years, contact Burchard & Associates. We help accounting and finance professionals in and around the St. Louis area find the next step in their careers. Check out our available career opportunities, or contact us today to get your job search started.