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

Finance Analyst

Geneva, IL ยท On-site

$75K - $101K/yr

This position combines financial analysis, budgeting, accounting, reporting, auditing, process improvement, and project coordination, providing an opportunity to work across a variety of financial ...

Finance Analyst

Geneva, IL ยท On-site

$75K - $101K/yr

This position combines financial analysis, budgeting, accounting, reporting, auditing, process improvement, and project coordination, providing an opportunity to work across a variety of financial ...

Sr. Finance Analyst

Lisle, IL ยท On-site

$84K - $105K/yr

Conducts financial analyses; develops and prepares financial plans and budgets; interprets ... Projects, and Professional Resource Augmentation services to clients in the Mid-West and beyond.

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Project Finance Analyst information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$33.5K

$85.7K

$161.2K

How much do project finance analyst jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for project finance analyst in Chicago, IL is $85,695.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $57,200.00 and $115,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How does a project finance analyst collaborate with project managers and other stakeholders during a project's lifecycle?

A Project Finance Analyst works closely with project managers, financial controllers, and external partners to ensure accurate budgeting, forecasting, and financial reporting throughout each phase of a project. They often participate in project meetings to provide financial insights, assess risks, and help align project goals with financial constraints. Regular collaboration ensures that financial documentation is up-to-date, funding requirements are met, and any financial issues are addressed proactively. This teamwork is essential for maintaining project timelines and ensuring successful project delivery.

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

To thrive as a Project Finance Analyst, you need strong analytical skills, financial modeling expertise, and a solid understanding of finance or accounting principles, usually supported by a relevant degree. Familiarity with Excel, financial modeling software, and sometimes certifications like CFA or CPA are valuable assets. Attention to detail, effective communication, and problem-solving abilities are important soft skills for collaborating with stakeholders and presenting complex data clearly. These skills are crucial for accurately assessing financial risks and returns, enabling sound decision-making in project investments.

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

AspectProject Finance AnalystFinancial Analyst
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Finance, Economics, or related field; often certifications like CFABachelor's in Finance, Economics, or related field; CFA preferred
Work EnvironmentInvestment banks, project finance firms, energy, infrastructure sectorsCorporations, banks, investment firms across various industries
Employer & Industry UsageSpecialized in project-based financing for large-scale projectsAnalyzes financial data to support business decisions across industries

While both roles require finance knowledge and similar credentials, Project Finance Analysts focus on structuring and evaluating large-scale project financings, often in energy or infrastructure sectors. Financial Analysts have a broader scope, analyzing financial data to guide investment and business decisions across various industries.

Does project finance analyst pay well?

Project finance analysts typically earn competitive salaries that vary by industry, location, and experience level. Entry-level positions often start around $60,000 to $80,000 annually, with experienced analysts earning over $100,000, especially in high-demand markets or with specialized skills like financial modeling and risk analysis.

How much does a project finance analyst make?

A project finance analyst's average salary in the United States ranges from $60,000 to $100,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and industry. Entry-level analysts typically earn closer to $60,000, while experienced professionals with certifications like CFA can earn over $100,000. The role often requires strong financial modeling skills and knowledge of project valuation.

What does a project finance analyst do?

A project finance analyst evaluates the financial viability of large projects, such as infrastructure or energy developments, by analyzing cash flows, funding sources, and risks. They prepare financial models, assess funding options, and support decision-making to ensure projects are financially sustainable and align with investor and lender requirements.

What are popular job titles related to Project Finance Analyst jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Project Finance Analyst jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Project Finance Analyst jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Project Finance Analyst jobs in Chicago, IL are:

Infographic showing various Project Finance Analyst job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 3% Part Time, and 11% Contract. Highlights an 88% In-person, 6% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $85,695 per year, or $41.2 per hour.

Senior Project Finance Analyst

Thales Defense & Security, Inc.

Aurora, IL โ€ข On-site

$93K - $119K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 29 days ago


Job description

Thales Defense & Security, Inc. (TDSI) Headquartered in Clarksburg, MD, is a U.S. company that has been serving domestic and international defense Air, Land and Sea domains for 60+ years. With over 1,000 employees, TDSI and its four subsidiaries (Advanced Acoustic Concepts, Digital Receiver Technology, Tampa Microwave, and Trusted Cyber Technologies), supports U.S. Joint Services, special operations forces and multi-national partners with a variety of communication, visualization, signal intelligence/electronic warfare, and sensor/sonar capabilities. TDSI's key technologies include tactical handheld radios, expeditionary satellite terminals, helmet-mounted displays, optics and target recognition capability, advanced radars, undersea sensing and missile systems. Lives depend on what we do!
Top Benefits (Subject to terms of applicable policies/plans)
  • Competitive Salary
  • Yearly Incentive Compensation Plan
  • Medical insurance for self and eligible family members
  • Generous 401(k) program- up to 7% company contribution and 100% immediate vesting
  • Tuition Reimbursement
  • Paid wellness, vacation, and holiday leave
  • Paid maternity, paternity, and parental leave
  • 9/80 Work Schedule (every other Friday off)
  • Hybrid Working Environment

Thales Defense & Security, Inc. is currently seeking a Senior Project Finance Analyst to work at our Aurora, IL Campus. This position reports to the Senior Manager, Program Finance. This role requires specific experience supporting financial health of projects/ programs.
Responsibilities
  • Oversee the financial aspects of projects, including budgeting, forecasting, cost control, and reporting, ensuring projects stay within budget and achieve financial goals.
  • Assist building and maintaining project structures in SAP S/4 HANA/ Fiori.
  • Prepare project cost reports and presentations.
  • Create journal entries and supporting schedules.
  • Monitor budgets for over- and under-runs.
  • Reconcile various Balance Sheets and P&L accounts.
  • Support routine financial month-end and year-end close processes.
  • Support and participate in reporting and forecasting of financial results.
  • Present in front of groups including executive level employees.
  • Support annual year-end financial audits.
  • Works on self-driven or project-based work; with minimal supervision.
  • Support achievement of all programmatic, contractual and financial objectives.
  • Maintain a high ethical standard of practice, including compliance with all company procedures.

Qualifications
The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
  • U.S. Citizenship required. - Applicants selected may be subject to a government security investigation and must meet eligibility requirements for access to classified information.
  • Bachelor's degree in Business/ Accounting/ Finance/ Economics
  • 5-8 years of finance experience, preferably in a manufacturing environment.
  • Knowledge of GAAP or IFRS.
  • Excellent organizational skills and work ethic.
  • Ability to work in a team environment and interact with employees in all departments and functions.
  • Ability to see a problem or challenge and create a solution - a "roll up your sleeves and get it done" work ethic.
  • Experience with Microsoft Excel and Microsoft Office products.
  • Excellent verbal and written communications- Fluent in English.
  • Ability to comply with all Company guidelines, policies, procedures and embrace Company Core Values.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Knowledge of FAR, DFAR, CAS.
  • Familiarity with government contracting accounting experience/ DOD Program Finance Reporting.
  • SAP S/4 Hana experience.

The annualized pay range for this role is $93,150- $119,025 along with a target incentive compensation plan (ICP) of 5%. The pay range provided is a good faith estimate representative of the experience level for the role described above. TDSI considers several factors when extending an offer, including but not limited to, the role, function and associated responsibilities, a candidate's work experience, location, education/training, and key skills.
For specific questions about this job posting, candidates may contact talent acquisition at careers@thalesdsi.com.
Thales Defense & Security, Inc. is committed to non-discrimination as applicable under federal, state and local laws. We are an E-Verify Employer.
If you need an accommodation or assistance in order to apply for a position with Thales Defense & Security, Inc., please call Human Resources at 202-961-1016.
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