AIM Magazine 2016 | Page 43

Some financial services workers also keep a close eye on the stock market. A career as a brokerage clerk could start you on the path to becoming a securities or commodities broker. Brokerage clerks complete orders to buy or sell stock, track stock prices and keep transaction records. Entry level wages average $ 31,000 per year in Northwest Arkansas and can climb up to $ 60,000 with experience.
Deciding to progress to a securities or commodities broker would likely require earning a bachelor’ s degree and mastering market and regulatory knowledge. Those who become investment professionals could eventually go on to run their own money management firm.
Bookkeeping, accounting and auditing clerks record data and make sure financial records are up to date and accurate. In addition to mastering basic math skills, they also must be familiar with accounting software and spreadsheets. In Northwest Arkansas, experienced bookkeeping, accounting and auditing clerks can earn more than $ 40,000 each year. Some who go on to complete a college degree to become an accountant can see their earnings increase to more than $ 70,000 a year.
Careers in the financial services sector include a wide variety of jobs and some of the highest-paid occupations. Wages vary depending on the education needed for each position. Taking classes that teach accounting, advanced spreadsheet skills, and mastering math skills while still in school could give you an advantage if you decide a career in financial services is in your future.
You could also start a career in the financial services sector as a credit analyst. Those employees look at a person’ s credit history and standing to decide whether or not they should be issued a new line of credit. This type of career offers on-the-job training with experienced workers averaging more than $ 37,000 annually.
Credit counselors also work with borrowers, helping them understand loan requirements to find the best type of loan for their needs. Credit counselors also advise people with poor credit and help them build a budget and plan to lower their debt. While many credit counselors have a bachelor’ s degree, some have an associate degree.
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