Budget Analyst Jobs

If you have an aptitude for mathematics and have, or are considering a degree course in accounting, statistics, economics or a similar subject, you would be well qualified to look for a budget analyst job. Budget analysis is a growing speciality, as employers seek to make the most of their financial resources. In recent years, with limited funding and downsizing becoming a reality in many companies, budget analysts have been in demand for their ability to work with a limited budget and still improve efficiency and increase profits.

Someone in a budget analyst job will typically examine a budget and find the most efficient way to distribute funds as well as looking at key ways in which the firm’s profitability will be maintained and increased. Almost half of the budget analysts in the country work in federal, state, or local government, where they develop, analyze and execute budgets designed to make the most of the funds available to them, distributing them to different departments where they will be best deployed.

Budget analyst jobs in the private sector are more profit-oriented, as the aim here is to achieve maximum returns from the available funds. A bachelor’s degree is usually the minimum educational requirement for a budget analyst job. Entry-level budget analysts in government will usually receive extensive on the job and further training, which opens the path to promotion. The personal qualities you will need to become a successful budget analyst include strict ethical standards because of the confidentiality of the material you will be dealing with.

People in budget analyst jobs should have good computer skills and be able to use software packages, including spreadsheet, database financial analysis and graphics programs. Good communication skills are also essential, as the work involves presenting and defending budget proposals to employers.

There are good job prospects for budget analysts, who can expect to earn an average of $77,000 a year, rising to more than $90,000.