A business can't function without somebody managing its money, and that need has created a variety of roles in finance. From finding ways to efficiently use funds to ensuring that the business' finances are legally organized, there are more ways than ever before to manage a company's assets.
If you're interested in a career in finance, check out eight of the best jobs in the field. These jobs have a median annual pay of $60,000-plus and are projected to grow as fast as or faster than the average for all occupations through 2020.
1. Management analyst
2010 median pay: $78,160
Job outlook, 2010-20: 22 percent (faster than average)
Description: Management analysts, often called management consultants, propose ways to improve an organization's efficiency. They advise managers on how to make organizations more profitable through reduced costs and increased revenues.
2. Financial examiner
2010 median pay: $74,940
Job outlook, 2010-20: 27 percent (faster than average)
Description: Financial examiners ensure compliance with laws governing financial institutions and transactions. They review balance sheets, evaluate the risk level of loans and assess bank management.
3. Financial analyst
2010 median pay: $74,350
Job outlook, 2010-20: 23 percent (faster than average)
Description: Financial analysts provide guidance to businesses and individuals making investment decisions. They assess the performance of stocks, bonds and other types of investments.
4. Logistician
2010 median pay: $70,800
Job outlook, 2010-20: 26 percent (faster than average)
Description: Logisticians analyze and coordinate an organization's supply chain -- the system that moves a product from supplier to consumer. They manage the entire life cycle of a product, which includes how a product is acquired, distributed, allocated and delivered.
5. Budget analyst
2010 median pay: $68,200
Job outlook, 2010-20: 10 percent (about as fast as average)
Description: Budget analysts help public and private institutions organize their finances. They prepare budget reports and monitor institutional spending.
6. Personal financial adviser
2010 median pay: $64,750
Job outlook, 2010-20: 32 percent (much faster than average)
Description: Personal financial advisers give financial advice to individuals and families. They help with investments, taxes and insurance decisions.
7. Accountant or auditor
2010 median pay: $61,690
Job outlook, 2010-20: 16 percent (about as fast as average)
Description: Accountants and auditors prepare and examine financial records. They ensure that financial records are accurate and that taxes are paid properly and on time. Accountants and auditors assess financial operations and work to help ensure that organizations run efficiently.
8. Market research analyst
2010 median pay: $60,570
Job outlook, 2010-20: 41 percent (much faster than average)
Description: Market research analysts study market conditions in local, regional or national areas to examine potential sales of a product or service. They help companies understand what products people want, who will buy them and at what price.
To find more finance-related jobs, visit MoneyJobs, a website that connects experienced financial professionals and matches them with relevant opportunities.
Source: careerbuilder