earn more with these 8 high-paying finance and accounting jobs.

Being the professional behind the scenes keeping track of the money typically pays well. Whether you're keeping the books or working to bring in the cash flow, your employer depends on you for precision, discretion and honesty. Add to that the fact that you need strong analytical skills to manage numbers, and you can see why employers are often willing to pay to hire the best talent in the accounting and finance spaces.

Whether you're ready to fight for the compensation you deserve or you find salary negotiation intimidating, as a finance professional, you have opportunities to earn more. Check out eight jobs in accounting and finance below that pay well.

credit and collections professional

Collections and credit professionals help keep business bottom lines positive by working past due accounts. Duties can include identifying accounts that need remediation, using all legal methods available to collect funds and working with customers on payment arrangements that work for everyone. 

Starting pay for these types of jobs is around $50,000 per year, and with 10 years of experience, you can make up to $75,000. Successful collections professionals may also be able to earn more with bonuses and other compensation. 

controller

Controllers can work for any size business, and their duties vary depending on the type of organization they work for. Typically, this is a management or even executive-level accounting position. In smaller organizations, controllers may oversee all financial decisions and reports. In enterprise organizations, the controller's responsibilities may be strictly related to regulatory financial reporting and ensuring the overall quality of accounting activities in the company.

The majority of controller positions require degrees in finance or accounting along with numerous years of experience. On the low end, these positions pay around $80,000 to $90,000 annually. On the high end, professionals can earn $120,000 to $150,000 or more per year.

accountant 

Accountants are the backbone of business operations. This role requires someone who can manage and analyze financial information and prepare reports for internal and external stakeholders. Depending on the organization, accountants may be responsible for preparing taxes, coordinating audits or managing accounts receivable and payables.

The amount of money an accountant makes depends on their experience level, education and location. Entry-level positions start at around $67,500 annually, while experienced accountants can earn up to $105,000 annually. Those with higher education can earn salaries above the standard ranges.

Start your career as an accountant to set yourself up with a lucrative salary.  

payroll manager

Businesses need someone to manage their payroll operations. This requires a lot of organization, attention to detail and knowledge of government regulations related to pay structure, taxes and employee benefits. Payroll managers typically have a degree in HR or accounting and several years of experience in the field.

Not only do payroll managers provide a critical role in the workplace, but they also typically earn more than other accounting and finance positions. The salary for payroll manager positions ranges from $86,000 to $120,000 per year. Additionally, successful professionals can expect bonuses and other compensation when they exceed performance expectations.

A job as a payroll manager is an excellent way to earn a strong salary with benefits.

external auditor

External auditors are certified accountants that audit the financial records of companies to provide necessary certifications for tax, regulatory, compliance, or reporting purposes. These accountants can work for themselves as independent contractors who build their own client list or for companies that offer external auditing services.  

Either way, start pay ranges from around $65,000 to $80,000 per year. External auditors with 10 years of experience can earn as much as $100,000 annually.

treasury analyst

A treasury analyst is a financial professional who specializes in cash and risk management. They analyze an organization's financial data and make recommendations to improve its financial health. Treasury analysts are essential players in the finance industry — especially in tight economic times. 

Companies of all sizes need treasury analysts to provide solutions for their liquidity needs, manage debt, oversee banking relationships and execute investments. The minimum salary for these professionals is typically around $69,000 per year, but with more years of experience, they can earn up to $100,000 annually. 

Generally, the demand for accounting and finance professionals translates into high salaries, so consider your skills to work in this type of role.

compliance officer

A compliance officer ensures that a company complies with applicable laws, regulations, and policies. This role requires someone knowledgeable in legal and regulatory requirements who can interpret complex rules and regulations.

The role of a compliance officer is critical, as noncompliance can result in hefty fines and other consequences. The salary for this position varies based on experience and location but generally starts at around $96,000 per year. With increased knowledge, some professionals may even earn over $120,000 annually.

As a compliance officer, your financial ability will open doors to incredible opportunities and potentially lucrative salaries.

financial analyst

Financial analysts are similar to business analysts, but they work exclusively in the realm of money. Typically, they look at trends and data to provide businesses and others with advice and strategies on how to earn or make more money. Financial analysts might work for banks or brokers, but they can also work for enterprise organizations.

New financial analysts with the right qualifications and skills can make $60,000 to $75,000 annually and up to $95,000 with more experience. Professionals in cities such as Montreal and Toronto tend to earn more than their counterparts in other areas.

enjoy competitive pay in your next finance and accounting job

Pay isn't everything, and you may want to consider negotiating some other perks and compensation when you take on a new position. But pay is definitely important, which is why you should consider all your options before you say yes to an offer. 

By preparing yourself with the latest industry knowledge, you'll be well-positioned to land a lucrative finance and accounting job that offers excellent pay and many other benefits.

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To ensure you make the most of your career, look at our related articles to learn about potential roles and salary negotiation tips. These articles include:

• 9 jobs you didn't know paid over $100K per year
   
• salary negotiation tips and tricks you need to try
   
• 12 things you can negotiate in a job offer that aren't your base salary