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Associate Finance Analyst Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Sr. Quantitative Finance Analyst

Chicago, IL · On-site

$88K - $109K/yr

This position may also have responsibilities for managing associates. At Bank of America, all ... Position Overview - As a senior quantitative finance analyst in MRQ team, you will be responsible ...

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Associate Finance Analyst information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$29.9K

$75.9K

$129.4K

How much do associate finance analyst jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for associate finance analyst in Chicago, IL is $75,934.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $57,700.00 and $84,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an associate finance analyst do?

An Associate Finance Analyst typically assists in analyzing financial data, preparing reports, and supporting budgeting and forecasting processes for an organization. They work closely with senior analysts and other finance team members to interpret financial information, identify trends, and help make recommendations for business decisions. Their responsibilities may also include reconciling accounts, performing variance analysis, and ensuring compliance with financial regulations. This entry-level role is ideal for individuals looking to build a career in finance and develop analytical and problem-solving skills.

What types of projects and responsibilities can an associate finance analyst expect during their first year on the job?

As an Associate Finance Analyst, you can expect to work on a variety of projects such as budgeting, forecasting, and financial reporting. Early responsibilities often include analyzing financial data, preparing reports for senior analysts or managers, and assisting with variance analysis. You'll likely collaborate closely with cross-functional teams like accounting and operations to gather data and provide insights. Over time, you'll gain exposure to more complex analyses and may have opportunities to present findings to leadership, which is valuable for career growth.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an associate finance analyst, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Associate Finance Analyst, you need a solid grasp of financial principles, data analysis, and a relevant degree in finance, accounting, or a related field. Familiarity with financial modeling tools, Microsoft Excel, and financial reporting systems like SAP or Oracle is typically expected. Strong attention to detail, analytical thinking, and effective communication are standout soft skills in this role. These skills and qualities are crucial for delivering accurate financial insights and supporting sound business decisions.

What is the difference between Associate Finance Analyst vs Financial Analyst?

AspectAssociate Finance AnalystFinancial Analyst
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in finance, accounting, or related field; some roles may require internshipsBachelor's degree; often preferred to have certifications like CFA or CPA
Work EnvironmentEntry-level, team-based, supporting senior analystsMore independent, involved in detailed financial analysis and reporting
Employer & Industry UsageCommon in finance departments, investment firms, corporate financeWidely used across finance, investment banking, corporate finance, and consulting

The main difference between an Associate Finance Analyst and a Financial Analyst lies in experience level and responsibilities. Associate Finance Analysts are typically entry-level, supporting senior staff, while Financial Analysts handle more complex analysis independently. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds, but Financial Analysts often pursue additional certifications and have more advanced responsibilities.

What are the most commonly searched types of Finance Analyst jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Finance Analyst jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Associate Finance Analyst jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Associate Finance Analyst job openings:

Infographic showing various Associate Finance Analyst job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 67% Full Time, 29% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $75,874 per year, or $36.5 per hour.

Finance Rotation Associate

Buckingham Search

Oakbrook Terrace, IL • On-site

Other

This job post has expired 1 day ago. Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

Associate, Finance Leadership Development Rotation

Location: Western Suburbs


Our client is a diversified global manufacturer with a large, multi-segment business and a strong focus on operational excellence, innovation, and long-term growth.


This multi-year Finance Leadership Development Program is designed to build well-rounded finance professionals through hands-on experience across core finance functions. Over approximately two years, participants will complete two rotations of roughly one year each, gaining exposure to both Internal Audit and FP&A.


The program provides structured onboarding, training, mentorship, and visibility to senior finance leadership, with the goal of preparing participants for long-term leadership opportunities across the organization.


Rotation Structure

  • First Rotation: Internal Audit or FP&A
  • Second Rotation: Internal Audit or FP&A
  • Participants receive structured training, oversight, and development throughout each rotation.
  • Following completion of the program, participants will be considered for permanent finance leadership opportunities based on business needs, performance, and career interests.
  • Potential post-program opportunities may include Controller, Assistant Controller, FP&A Manager/Director, and other finance leadership positions.
  • Permanent roles may require relocation to one of the company's operating locations.


What You'll Learn

  • Business & Risk Acumen: Gain exposure to business operations, risk management, internal controls, and audit processes.
  • Financial Planning & Forecasting: Develop expertise in budgeting and forecasting across both corporate and operating businesses.
  • Financial Analysis & Modeling: Analyze financial data, build models, evaluate processes, and develop recommendations for improvement.
  • Executive Reporting: Prepare materials and presentations for senior leadership and executive-level meetings.
  • Communication & Leadership: Present findings, communicate financial results, escalate risks, and collaborate with senior leaders.
  • Cross-Functional Exposure: Build relationships across finance, operations, corporate functions, and international teams.


What You'll Do

Internal Audit

  • Execute projects supporting the organization's internal audit plan.
  • Assist with audit planning, fieldwork, reporting, and follow-up activities.
  • Partner with business leaders across multiple operating segments.
  • Evaluate business risks and internal controls and identify opportunities for improvement.
  • Work effectively with internal teams and external/co-source professional service providers.
  • Communicate and escalate significant findings and observations to appropriate levels of management.
  • Manage project timelines, budgets, and deliverables.

FP&A

  • Lead budgeting and forecasting activities for corporate functions.
  • Partner with cross-functional and international teams to develop annual budgets and monthly forecasts.
  • Support quarterly forecasting and annual budgeting processes across the organization.
  • Develop and improve financial planning templates, processes, and reporting.
  • Serve as a resource to finance teams regarding financial planning systems and processes.
  • Provide financial analysis and support for quarterly earnings and executive reporting.
  • Prepare financial materials and presentations for senior leadership.
  • Provide ad hoc financial analysis and modeling to support business decisions.


What You'll Bring

  • Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, Auditing, Information Systems, or a related field; Master's degree is a plus.
  • Approximately 2–5 years of finance or accounting experience.
  • Experience with financial planning, budgeting, forecasting, or internal audit is preferred.
  • Big 4 or professional services experience is strongly preferred.
  • Relevant certifications such as CPA, CIA, CISA, or CISSP are preferred, or an interest in pursuing certification.



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About Buckingham Search

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Buckingham Search is the active pipeline to connect Big Four-experienced audit, tax, and accounting people to the right career move–not just the next one. We specialize in Accounting, Audit, Tax, and Finance professionals with additional reach to Human Resources. And it might be the difference between finding a job and finding the right job. Or finding a candidate and finding your people. We care. We want to see our employers grow and the careers of our candidates soar because we know when you win, we win. And we want both groups to depend on us to dig deeper, solve problems and go further to ensure that your employment objectives are exceeded. No salesy-types. No corporate-speak. Just real people helping real people solve a unique problem of matching skilled talent to the right opportunity.

Industry

Recruiting and staffing services

Company size

1 - 10 Employees

Headquarters location

Chicago, IL, US

Year founded

2015

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