Industry snapshot: Accounting and finance jobs

Financial, budget, and cost analysts

Average salary: $91,670 (financial); $73,210 (budget and cost)

Demand: Strong. With tight budgets, companies rely on skilled analysts to monitor and control costs and to assist with economic forecasting and planning. Competition for top jobs is keen.

Qualifications: Bachelor's or master's degree in accounting, finance, or business administration; strong math, problem-solving, and analytical abilities; good communication skills.

(istockphoto.com)
Financial, budget, and cost analysts Average salary: $91,670 (financial); $73,210 (budget and cost) Demand: Strong. With tight budgets, companies rely on skilled analysts to monitor and control costs and to assist with economic forecasting and planning. Competition for top jobs is keen. Qualifications: Bachelor's or master's degree in accounting, finance, or business administration; strong math, problem-solving, and analytical abilities; good communication skills.