Finance career cluster | Explore Careers

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Finance career cluster

Finance relates to the services involved in financial and investment planning, banking, insurance, and business financial management. The finance and insurance industry is all about managing money and making financial transactions—from a child’s first savings account to multimillion-dollar corporate loans.

What organizations employ people in the finance career cluster?

Banks
Credit card companies
Insurance agencies
Stock brokerages
Investment fund companies

Watch finance overview video

Quick facts

Large economic impact

There are about 490,000 establishments in the U.S. finance and insurance sector with a combined annual revenue of about $4.5 trillion.

Employment numbers

This sector employs more than 6.3 million people.

Global opportunities

New York City is the primary U.S. financial hub, but in this global industry, workers might be involved in hubs around the world, such as London, Tokyo, and Zurich.

High demand

Most finance and insurance occupations are growing, including accountants and auditors, insurance sales agents, and loan officers.

Is a career in finance for me?

A majority of careers in the finance and insurance industry require a four-year degree, however, although a high school diploma or an associate’s degree qualify a candidate for several occupations, and in some states, apprenticeship programs are available for several finance careers.

Although some entry-level careers are shrinking as technology automates tasks, job opportunities will continue to be available due to retirements and turnover, likely with some role changes. Professional licensure is required to practice in some states for occupations such as mortgage brokers and accountants.

Some points to keep in mind:

Most careers in this cluster require the skills to work meticulously with documents and policies, maintain records, and interpret government regulations and laws. Individuals may be liable if an action does not meet compliance.
The finance and insurance industry typically has a more formal dress code than many other industries. Employees’ appearance contributes to a company’s impression as being trustworthy, upright, and reliable.
Work schedules typically follow a routine 9-to-5, but work hours may extend for those who work for clients or need to be available when opportunity strikes.
When it comes to managing investments, your co-workers are often your competitors; if you don’t capitalize on an opportunity, they might.

What are some careers in finance?

Ready to explore career options in finance? Take a look at the list below to learn about finance careers at different levels of education. Click any link to find out more about a career, including average wages, employment projections, training requirements and more. You’ll also see whether they require that you pass a certification exam and/or qualify for licensure in your state.

High school education

Credit Authorizers, Checkers, and Clerks

Insurance Claims and Policy Processing Clerks

Tellers

Short-term training, apprenticeship, on the job learning or specific license

Brokerage Clerks

Loan Interviewers and Clerks

Tax Preparers

More advanced training or bachelor’s degree

Accountants and Auditors

Actuaries

Claims Adjusters, Examiners, and Investigators