The financial analyst position is the top entry-level finance or accounting job among new graduates and comes with a median salary of $49,700 – $51,000, according to the Accounting Principals.
Among the most in-demand employers of financial analysts are investment banks, insurance companies, and asset management firms, and Accounting Principals also finds that public companies are constantly looking for financial analysts who can predict growth and prepare quarterly financial statements.
Additionally, the accountant position is an in-demand job for new graduates in the finance and accounting field, Accounting Principals finds. As the economy remains unstable and there are increasingly complex accounting regulations, there is a continued need for accountants. Accounting is also a necessary back office function, which creates in-demand position in a weak economy as well as a strong one. The Accounting Principals' 2012 Salary Guide finds that the median annual salary for this position is $45,000-$55,000.
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"The current economic climate — filled with increasing regulation and scrutiny — means that finance and accounting professionals are more valuable to companies than ever before," says Mike McNamara, vice president of Accounting Principals. "Entry-level candidates with expertise or interest in this field should take advantage of this current demand to find a job that will utilize their talents while giving them the opportunity to grow professionally."
Of the other top financial and accounting jobs for new graduates are accounts payable and receivable clerk, auditor, credit analyst and mortgage underwriter.
"Accounting and finance is often considered the backbone of a business, and as financial regulations continue to mount, so will the need for qualified finance and accounting talent," McNamara says. "New grads who begin their careers in corporate finance will quickly learn how this function supports company operations and helps drive business growth, positioning them well for success in any role they choose during the course of their careers."
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