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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