Financial Analyst
O*NET-SOC: 13-2051.00
Evaluates investment opportunities, analyzes financial data, and provides guidance to businesses and individuals making investment decisions by studying economic trends, financial statements, and market conditions.
About this Role
Financial analysts study a company's financial data and market conditions to help leaders make informed decisions about spending, investing, and planning for the future. They spend much of their time building and updating financial models in spreadsheets, pulling together revenue forecasts, profit-and-loss breakdowns, and budget comparisons that highlight where a business is performing well and where it is falling short. A typical morning might involve checking market news, updating a forecast with the latest sales figures, and preparing a presentation that explains what the numbers mean in plain terms for executives.
A Day in the Life
7:30 AM
Market scan
Check financial news services for overnight developments, then update spreadsheet models with the latest figures.
8:30 AM
Team sync
Join a short morning call to review where actual numbers differ from forecasts and discuss priority requests.
9:30 AM
Variance analysis
Dig into the profit-and-loss statement to find what's driving differences between expected and actual results, and document findings for a presentation.
11:30 AM
Stakeholder meeting
Present forecasts to the finance director, explain the assumptions behind the numbers, and answer questions.
1:00 PM
Lunch and slide prep
Eat while refining presentation slides for an upcoming executive briefing.
2:00 PM
Modeling deep dive
Build a financial model that tests different scenarios - such as a recession or a change in interest rates - to see how each would affect the business.
4:00 PM
Ad-hoc requests
Respond to a question from the sales team about which customers or products are most profitable.
6:00 PM
Prep and close
Finalize reports, set up any scheduled data refreshes, and wrap up for the day.
Tools & Technologies
Databases & Data Tools
- SQL
- Microsoft Access
- Microsoft SQL Server
- Oracle Database
- FileMaker Pro
Business Intelligence
- Microsoft Power BI
- Tableau
- Alteryx
- IBM Cognos Impromptu
- MicroStrategy
Analytics & Science
- IBM SPSS Statistics
- SAS
- The MathWorks MATLAB
- Analyse-it
- Decisioneering Crystal Ball
ERP Systems
- SAP
- PeopleSoft
- Microsoft Dynamics
- Microsoft Dynamics GP
- NetSuite ERP
Database Systems
- Apache Hive
- Teradata Database
- Apache Pig
Word Processing
- Google Docs
- Microsoft Word
- Microsoft OneNote
Salary Details
Salary Distribution
Most professionals earn between $78K and $132K
| Percentile | Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th | $62K |
| 25th | $78K |
| 50th (Median) | $101K |
| 75th | $132K |
| 90th | $181K |
Certifications, Training & Memberships
Recommended
Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA)
CFA Institute
Rigorous program covering investment analysis, ethics, and portfolio management, highly valued for advanced roles.
Certified Management Accountant (CMA)
Institute of Management Accountants
Focuses on financial planning, analysis, control, and decision support.
Helpful
Financial Modeling & Valuation Analyst (FMVA)
Corporate Finance Institute
Builds practical Excel skills for modeling and valuation used daily.
Professional Memberships
Association for Financial Professionals Membership
Association for Financial Professionals
Provides networking, resources, and events for finance professionals.
Work Environment
- Remote Work
- Hybrid (Remote + Office)
- Work Setting
- Traditional office / indoor
- Physical Activity
- Mostly sedentary
- Social Interaction
- Highly collaborative — frequent team interaction
- Schedule
- Extended hours common
Your Skills & Attributes
Skills & Competencies Matches (46)
- Reading ComprehensionStrong Match
- Active ListeningStrong Match
- SpeakingStrong Match
- WritingGood Match
- Systems AnalysisModerate Match
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Financial Analyst a good career?
Financial Analyst can be a rewarding career choice. Based on current data, the median salary is $101K and job outlook is growing (9% projected growth). Whether it's a good fit depends on your skills, interests, and values — take our quiz to find out how well you match.
What degree do you need to become a Financial Analyst?
The typical education requirement for a Financial Analyst is a Bachelor's Degree. However, requirements can vary by employer and specialization. Some professionals enter the field with alternative credentials or relevant work experience.
How long does it take to become a Financial Analyst?
Becoming a Financial Analyst typically requires about 4 years of undergraduate study. Additional time may be needed for certifications, internships, or on-the-job training depending on the specific role and employer requirements.
What is the work-life balance like for a Financial Analyst?
The work-life balance for a Financial Analyst is moderate, with some periods requiring extended hours or flexibility. Individual experiences vary based on employer, specialization, seniority level, and geographic location.
What is the job outlook for Financial Analyst?
The job outlook for Financial Analyst is growing. Employment is projected to grow by 9% over the coming decade. Labor market conditions can vary by region and specialization.