How to Get a Job as an Investment Analyst

A laptop with financial data

Investment Analysts research financial data, evaluate investment opportunities, and advise clients or firms on portfolio decisions. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects employment for financial analysts to grow 9% from 2023 to 2033, with around 33,000 new job openings annually (bls.gov). Here’s how to build a career in this field.

Entry-Level Requirements for Investment Analysts

1. Education: A bachelor’s degree in finance, economics, accounting, or a related field is typically required. Many top analysts hold an MBA.

2. Certifications: Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) designation is highly recommended.

3. Experience: Internships at investment firms, banks, or financial institutions provide essential hands-on experience.

Expected Salary for Investment Analysts

• Entry-Level: $60,000–$85,000 annually.

• Mid-Level: $85,000–$120,000 annually.

• Senior-Level: $120,000–$200,000+ annually.

Median base salary is approximately $95,570 according to BLS data (bls.gov).

Skills and Abilities Needed to Excel

• Analytical and quantitative skills

• Financial modeling and valuation expertise

• Strong written and verbal communication

• Critical thinking and problem-solving

• Attention to detail and ability to interpret complex data

Is Investment Analysis Suitable for Introverts or Extroverts?

This role is better suited for introverts, who often thrive analyzing data, preparing reports, and working independently.

Top 5 Degree Programs with Best ROI for Investment Analysts

1. University of Pennsylvania – Wharton (Finance)

2. New York University – Stern School of Business (Finance)

3. University of Chicago – Booth School of Business (Finance)

4. MIT Sloan School of Management (Finance)

5. Harvard Business School (MBA)

Can You Become an Investment Analyst Without a Degree?

It is extremely challenging, but strong quantitative skills, professional certifications (CFA), and relevant experience may allow entry into smaller firms or specialized roles.

Five Jobs Similar to Investment Analyst

1. Portfolio Manager

2. Equity Research Analyst

3. Credit Analyst

4. Financial Consultant

5. Risk Analyst

Top Ten Recruitment Agencies Specializing in Financial Roles

1. Robert Half Finance & Accounting

2. Michael Page Finance

3. Korn Ferry Finance

4. Hays Finance

5. Russell Reynolds Associates

6. Spencer Stuart

7. Adecco Finance

8. ManpowerGroup Finance

9. Aerotek Finance

10. Lucas Group Finance

Top Ten Employers Hiring Investment Analysts

1. Goldman Sachs

2. J.P. Morgan Chase

3. Morgan Stanley

4. BlackRock

5. Fidelity Investments

6. Bank of America Merrill Lynch

7. Wells Fargo

8. Charles Schwab

9. Vanguard

10. State Street Corporation

Top Ten Startups or Boutique Firms Hiring Investment Analysts

1. Robinhood

2. Betterment

3. Wealthfront

4. SoFi

5. Acorns

6. CircleUp

7. Public.com

8. Personal Capital

9. Stash

10. Fundrise

Investment analysis offers a challenging and rewarding career for those skilled with numbers and strategy. With strong education, CFA certification, and practical experience, you can thrive in this competitive field. Learn about other high-demand jobs over the next decade here.