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Managing finances behind the scenes typically comes with a generous paycheck, placing these roles among high paying finance jobs in the U.S.
Whether you're keeping the books or working to generate cash flow, your employer depends on you for precision, discretion, and honesty.
In addition, you need strong analytical skills to manage numbers, and you can see why employers are often willing to pay to hire the best talent in the accounting and finance spaces.
Whether you're ready to fight for the compensation you deserve or find salary negotiation intimidating, you can earn more as a finance professional.
Check out the list of high paying jobs in finance.
accounts payable manager
Skilled accounts payable managers are essential to a company's financial health, as they ensure that bills are paid accurately and on time.
They keep things running smoothly by managing the accounts payable team, staying on top of invoices, tracking budgets, and ensuring compliance with company policies and federal regulations.
Strong accounting, leadership, and project management skills are vital to leading an accounts payable department.
A degree in accounting or finance helps, but experience handling payments and managing finances is just as valuable. Accounts payable managers usually make between $77,000 and $120,000, making it one of the high-paying finance jobs in the U.S.
assistant controller
An assistant controller is a financial professional who works with a company's financial controller to manage the company's finances.
Responsibilities vary depending on the firm's size. They take charge of tasks such as financial reporting, budgeting, audits, and compliance, all of which contribute to maintaining the overall health of the company's finances.
An assistant controller's position requires a bachelor's degree in accounting or finance and at least five years of experience in the field. Skills in analysis, technology, communication, and organization are highly valued in the role.
Assistant controllers can expect to earn between $98,000 to $145,000 a year, making it a lucrative career opportunity among high paying finance jobs.
payroll supervisor
Payroll supervisors are the backbone of a company’s payroll operations. They ensure employees are paid accurately and on time while overseeing the payroll team.
This role requires strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and deep knowledge of labor laws, tax regulations, and compensation-related company policies.
Most payroll supervisors have a background in HR or accounting and several years of experience managing payroll processes effectively.
What’s great about being a payroll supervisor is that it’s not just an essential role—it often pays well and is one of the high paying finance jobs.
With a few years of experience, payroll supervisors average around $80,000 annually, with pay going as high as $130,000 depending on expertise and region.
This high-paying finance job offers a solid salary with benefits and room for career growth.
financial analyst
Financial analysts are indispensable to business strategy, transforming complex data into actionable insights. They evaluate trends and financial information to offer businesses advice and strategies for increasing revenue. Additionally, financial analysts can work in various sectors — from investment banks and insurance companies to government agencies and enterprise organizations.
New financial analysts with the right qualifications and skills can earn between $90,000 to $105,000 yearly. In major cities like California, financial analysts often earn more, sometimes reaching $120,000 for experienced professionals.
staff accountant
Staff accountants are central to an organization's financial health. They review and analyze financial records while tracking a company's or individual's income, expenditures, and liabilities.
A bachelor's degree in accounting or a related field is typically required to become a staff accountant. Obtaining certification in a specific area of accounting, such as becoming a licensed Certified Public Accountant (CPA), may help improve job prospects in high paying finance jobs.
The employment of accountants is projected to grow six percent in the next ten years, faster than the average for all occupations. With years of experience and a successful track record, seasoned accountants can earn between $72,000 and $98,000 yearly, reflecting their pivotal role.
compliance specialist
A compliance specialist ensures that the organization operates within the laws and regulations relevant to its industry. They develop policies, conduct audits, and create reports on compliance issues.
Compliance specialists collaborate with stakeholders such as legal teams, management, and external regulators. They provide information and analysis to support these groups in making informed, compliant decisions.
Candidates typically need a bachelor's degree, a Certified Risk and Compliance Management Professional (CRCMP), and at least two years of experience in compliance or a related field; specialized knowledge in finance, healthcare, or data privacy is a plus.
Strong organizational, communication, and analytical skills are essential for professionals in this role. With average salaries of around $87,000 annually, compliance specialists make for one of the high-paying finance jobs.
enjoy competitive pay in your next finance and accounting job
Pay isn't everything, and you should consider negotiating other perks and compensation when you take on a new position. But pay is essential, so you should consider all your options before saying yes to an offer.
The finance and accounting sector offers fantastic career opportunities and substantial salaries, making it an attractive option for job seekers. Randstad can help you start one of these hands-on, rewarding careers.
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For additional insights into the U.S. labor market and salary trends, be sure to check out some of our other articles, such as:
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