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Entry Level Financial Analyst Jobs in California

The Hankey Group

Financial Analyst

Los Angeles, CA

$28.85/hr

Financial Analyst Los Angeles, CA | On-site role Westlake Financial is the largest privately held ... This role is entry-level. What's the expected pay for this role? * $28.85 to 31.25 per hour * The ...

Meritage Homes

Finance Analyst

Sacramento, CA · On-site

Responsibilities Meritage Homes is seeking a Financial Analyst that will support growth the ... Meritage is committed to building energy-efficient and affordable entry-level and first move-up ...

Granite

Financial Analyst (FP&A)

Watsonville, CA · On-site

$63K - $95K/yr

Work with Financial Reporting Group in analyzing company performance. Education * Bachelor's degree ... entry level employees to executive management. * Ability to work with a minimum of supervision.

California Highway Patrol

ANALYST

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$4.9K - $8.7K/mo

The ITA will analyze business needs, document business requirements, assist in designing business process changes, and perform all manner of software testing activities for the Software Development ...

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All JobsFinancial Analyst JobsEntry Level Financial Analyst JobsEntry Level Financial Analyst Jobs in California

Entry Level Financial Analyst information

See California salary details

$13

$27

$53

How much do entry level financial analyst jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level financial analyst in California is $27.41, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.99 and $29.66 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Entry Level Financial Analyst vs Financial Associate?

AspectEntry Level Financial AnalystFinancial Associate
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Finance, Economics, or related field; often some internship experienceBachelor's degree in Finance, Accounting, or related field; may require some certification
Work EnvironmentCorporate finance departments, investment firms, or banks; analytical and reporting tasksFinancial services firms, banks, or accounting firms; client-facing and support roles
Employer & Industry UsageCommonly used in finance, banking, and investment industriesUsed across banking, asset management, and financial services sectors

The main difference between an Entry Level Financial Analyst and a Financial Associate lies in their focus and responsibilities. Financial Analysts primarily analyze data, prepare reports, and support investment decisions, while Financial Associates often handle client interactions, support financial transactions, and assist with account management. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds, but their day-to-day tasks and career paths differ slightly, with Analysts more focused on analysis and Associates on client support.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Financial Analyst, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Financial Analyst, you generally need a bachelor's degree in finance, accounting, or a related field, along with strong analytical and quantitative skills. Familiarity with Excel, financial modeling software, and sometimes experience with databases or ERP systems are typically required, and pursuing certifications like CFA Level I can be advantageous. Attention to detail, effective communication, and organizational abilities are standout soft skills in this role. These competencies are crucial for delivering accurate financial insights, supporting business decision-making, and ensuring reliable reporting within a fast-paced environment.

Is AI replacing financial analysts?

AI is automating certain tasks performed by financial analysts, such as data analysis and reporting, but it is not replacing the role entirely. Financial analysts still rely on critical thinking, industry knowledge, and judgment that AI cannot replicate, making their skills valuable in interpreting data and making strategic decisions.

What is the best entry-level finance job?

An entry-level financial analyst role is a common starting position in finance, involving data analysis, financial modeling, and reporting. It typically requires strong Excel skills, attention to detail, and a bachelor's degree in finance, accounting, or related fields. This role provides foundational experience for advancing into more senior finance positions.

Can I be a financial analyst with no experience?

Entry level financial analyst positions often require little to no professional experience, focusing instead on relevant skills such as Excel, financial modeling, and analytical thinking. Internships, coursework, or certifications like CFA Level 1 can help demonstrate your capabilities to employers. Gaining practical experience through internships or entry-level roles can improve your chances of securing a financial analyst position.

What are some common challenges faced by entry-level financial analysts during their first year, and how can they overcome them?

Entry-level financial analysts often encounter challenges such as managing large volumes of data, meeting tight deadlines for reports, and quickly learning company-specific financial systems. To overcome these hurdles, it's helpful to actively seek mentorship from senior analysts, participate in training sessions to sharpen technical skills, and stay organized with task lists and calendar reminders. Building strong relationships with colleagues in finance and related departments can also provide valuable support and insight, making the transition smoother and more productive.

What do entry-level financial analysts do?

Entry-level financial analysts gather and analyze financial data to support business decision-making. They prepare reports, create financial models using tools like Excel, and assist with budgeting, forecasting, and market research under supervision.

What Is the Job of an Entry-Level Financial Analyst?

Entry-level financial analysts compile budget and income statement forecasts into reports. In this role, you analyze the information for a business and provide advice on how to improve the financial health of the company. As part of your duties, you may look at investments and stocks and provide information on their performance and how the company could better use their assets. You might also provide information on how to reduce operating costs. The entry-level financial analyst presents these findings to company decision-makers, who may not understand the nuances of accounting. Because of this, you may be required to explain your findings at a basic level.

What does an Entry Level Financial Analyst do?

An Entry Level Financial Analyst is responsible for gathering, analyzing, and interpreting financial data to help their organization make informed business decisions. They typically prepare reports, assist with budgeting and forecasting, and evaluate financial performance under the supervision of senior analysts or managers. This role often involves using spreadsheets, financial modeling, and various analytical tools to assess trends and identify opportunities or risks. Entry level analysts may also support the preparation of presentations and participate in meetings with other departments or clients. It's a foundational role that provides exposure to different aspects of finance and helps build essential analytical skills.
More about Entry Level Financial Analyst jobs
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What cities in California are hiring for Entry Level Financial Analyst jobs? Cities in California with the most Entry Level Financial Analyst job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Financial Analyst jobs in CA? For Entry Level Financial Analyst jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Entry Level Financial Analyst jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Financial Analyst job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Locum Tenens, 85% Full Time, 8% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 6% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $57,005 per year, or $27.4 per hour.
Financial Analyst

Financial Analyst

Westlake Financial Services - Corporate

Los Angeles, CA • On-site

$28.85/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 3 days ago

Job description

Financial Analyst
Los Angeles, CA | On-site role

Westlake Financial is the largest privately held auto finance company in the Nation.

We are committed to growing and strengthening our organization by hiring the people that make Westlake World (our culture) what it is. Through hiring the best fitting applicant and supporting our people in further developing their skills, we transition our Applicants into Westlake Warriors (our people).

With 30% YOY growth and assets of 2.26 Billion, we are always looking to acquire talented individuals as we expand our presence in the Auto Finance Industry. Westlake Financial believes in PEOPLE with the PURPOSE and PASSION to assist our more than 22,000 dealer partners throughout North America.

Financial Analyst Brief Description:

The primary responsibilities of the position require the employee to conduct analysis of the company’s financial statements and their components, and business processes.

DUTIES, TASKS, RESPONSIBILITIES (include, but not limited to)

The financial analyst will work directly with all of Westlake’s departments to control costs, forecast income, and improve key processes. Innovation and independent thought will be highly valued.

Typical reporting duties do exist, including monthly forecasting, operating expense review, profitability reports and other regular duties. However, the role involves a high volume of ad hoc or as needed analysis to address the concerns and needs of each department and of upper management. These range from making recommendations on process improvements, to ascertaining profitability of a potential business move, to conducting valuation analysis, among other projects. Time management, follow up, business sense, professionalism, and an ability to think simultaneously about relevant conceptual and empirical factors will ensure success in this role.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, LICENSES

Strong critical thinking and quantitative skills are required.

EDUCATION

  • A 4-year degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field is required.
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Excel, SQL, and VBA are preferred.
  • Strong critical thinking and quantitative skills, along with the ability to be organized and coordinate well with others are required.
  • Excellent communication skills both oral and written are required.

EXPERIENCE

  • This role is entry-level.

What’s the expected pay for this role? 

  • $28.85 to 31.25 per hour
  • The exact starting compensation to be offered will be determined at the time of selecting an applicant for hire and will be dependent on a wide range of factors, including but not limited to geographic location, skill set, experience, education, credentials, and licensure when applicable.


What do we offer?  

    • Medical, Dental, and Vision benefits 
    • Life Insurance and Long-term disability plans 
    • Flexible Spending Account 
    • 401K matching 
    • Employee Stock Ownership Program in a $18.2 Billion Company, plus company matching 
    • Wellness Programs 
    • Metro Tap Card and Metro-link Reimbursement (for Los Angeles, CA employees only) 
    • Career Path Opportunities 
    • Discounts on Parks, Museums, Movie Tickets, and Attractions 
    • Employee Loan Assistance  
    • Annual Flu Shot
    • Paid Vacations Days 
    • Paid Sick days 
    • Paid holidays 
    • HGym (available in our Los Angeles, CA & Dallas, TX office) 
    • Rental Car Discounts, Dell Member Purchase Program 
    • UKG Wallet 

    Acknowledgment  

    We will consider for employment all qualified Applicants, including those with Criminal Histories, in a manner consistent with the requirements of applicable state and local laws, including the City of Los Angeles' Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance. 

    We are an equal-opportunity employer and do not unlawfully discriminate in employment. No question on this application is used for the purpose of limiting or excluding any applicant from consideration for employment on a basis prohibited by local, state, or federal law. Equal access to employment, services, and programs is available to all persons. Those applicants requiring reasonable accommodation to the application and/or interview process should notify a representative of the organization. 

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