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Variance Analyst Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Insurance Underpayments Analyst

Richmond, VA · On-site

$16.88 - $25.32/hr

Atlantic Region CBO (uhs.com) The Atlantic Region CBO is seeking a dynamic and talented Variance Analyst - East The primary responsibility of the Variance Analyst is the resolution of over and ...

Senior Accounting Financial Analyst

San Jose, CA · On-site

$100K - $124K/yr

Prepare and analyze monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements, financial reports, and variance analysis for executive leadership and CFO review * Manage intercompany accounting including ...

Senior Financial Analyst

Carson, CA · On-site

$89K - $111K/yr

This role partners with cross-functional teams to drive budgeting, forecasting, and variance analysis, ensuring alignment with financial goals. The position plays a key role in improving visibility ...

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Variance Analyst information

See salary details

$38.5K

$72.3K

$113K

How much do variance analyst jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for variance analyst in the United States is $72,338.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $56,000.00 and $82,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Will AI replace financial analysts?

AI can automate routine tasks such as data analysis and reporting, which are part of a financial analyst's role. However, financial analysts rely on critical thinking, judgment, and industry knowledge that AI cannot fully replicate, making human expertise still essential in the field.

Is variance analysis difficult?

Variance analysis is a core responsibility of a Variance Analyst and involves comparing actual financial data to budgets or forecasts to identify discrepancies. The difficulty depends on the complexity of the data, the analyst's experience, and proficiency with tools like Excel or specialized software; strong analytical skills and attention to detail are essential. While it can be challenging initially, developing expertise and understanding of financial processes can make the task more manageable.

What is the difference between Variance Analyst vs Cost Analyst?

AspectVariance AnalystCost Analyst
Primary FocusAnalyzing financial variances between budgeted and actual figuresAssessing and controlling overall costs and expenses
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Finance, Accounting, or related field; CPA or CMA preferredBachelor's in Finance, Accounting, or Business; certifications like CPA beneficial
Work EnvironmentFinance departments, manufacturing, or corporate settingsFinance, manufacturing, or project-based environments
Industry UsageCommon in finance, manufacturing, and corporate sectorsUsed across industries to manage budgets and expenses

While both roles involve financial analysis, a Variance Analyst primarily focuses on identifying and explaining discrepancies between budgeted and actual financial figures. In contrast, a Cost Analyst concentrates on managing and reducing overall costs. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds and often work within the same industries, but their specific responsibilities differ based on their focus areas.

Which analyst gets paid the most?

Among analysts, financial analysts and data analysts often have higher salaries, especially with advanced certifications or experience. Variance analysts typically earn competitive wages, but specialized roles like financial or business analysts tend to have higher compensation levels due to their broader responsibilities and required expertise.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Variance Analyst, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Variance Analyst, you need strong analytical skills, a solid background in finance or accounting, and proficiency with data analysis, often supported by a relevant degree. Familiarity with ERP systems, advanced Excel, and data visualization tools like Power BI or Tableau is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving, and effective communication are vital soft skills for interpreting data and presenting findings. These skills ensure accurate variance analysis, support decision-making, and help organizations control costs and improve financial performance.

What is a variance analyst?

A variance analyst is a finance professional who compares actual financial performance to budgets or forecasts to identify discrepancies. They analyze data using tools like Excel or financial software to help organizations control costs and improve financial accuracy.

How does a Variance Analyst collaborate with other departments to improve financial performance?

Variance Analysts frequently work with teams from operations, budgeting, and management to investigate the root causes of financial discrepancies. They analyze actual versus budgeted figures, prepare detailed reports, and participate in cross-functional meetings to discuss findings and recommend corrective actions. This collaboration is essential for identifying trends, controlling costs, and driving process improvements, making strong communication and teamwork skills vital for success in this role.
More about Variance Analyst jobs
Infographic showing various Variance Analyst job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, and 14% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $72,338 per year, or $34.8 per hour.
Payment Variance Analyst

Payment Variance Analyst

Truman Medical Centers

Northpoint, AR • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 17 days ago


University Health System (San Antonio) rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 61 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

131st of 884 rated healthcare providers


Job description

If you are a current University Health or University Health Physicians employee and wish to be considered, you must apply via the internal career site.

Please log into myWORKDAY to search for positions and apply.

Payment Variance Analyst101 Truman Medical CenterJob LocationNorthpointKansas City, Missouri
Department
Patient Accounts
Position Type
Full time
Work Schedule
7:30AM - 4:00PM
Hours Per Week
40
Job Description

The Analyst will evaluate and understand contract language as it relates to reimbursement methodologies including those involving, but not limited to, Per Diems, DRG's, Fee Schedules and Percent of Charge Mechanisms. Evaluates payer performance through analysis, investigation and facilitation of resolution. Communicates contract issues, interpretation and modifications to internal/external parties, as appropriate. Duties include reviewing, analyzing and appealing payer underpayments, payer contract variance recoveries and conducting follow up activity with Managed Care team for rate sheet modifications. The Analyst will provide customer service/provider service resolution by identifying and communicating problems with key contracts.

Has extensive knowledge in Medicare, Medicaid, and third party payment programs. Thorough understanding of payer contract terminology. This position is considered a subject matter expert and uses level of proficiency and knowledge to ensure quality and efficiencies in operational processes.

Meets quality measures set forth by regulatory compliance standards, organization, and department. Displays high customer service standards. Serves as a key point person for providing organization details for underpayment and denials. Has a strong ability to communicate information to peers, and management.

Minimum Requirements

  • Bachelor's degree or equivalent obtained through a combination of education and experience

  • Minimum of two years' experience in managed care or government payer payment variance reconciliation

  • Experience with 837i and HIPAA transaction sets such as ICD/CPT/HCPC coding, revenue codes, ICD10 and knowledge of medical terminology

  • Critical thinking and problem solving skills

  • Proficient in use of Microsoft Office products

  • Expert level in use of spreadsheets for analysis purposes

  • Graphic Presentation skills

  • Ability to demonstrate attention to detail

  • Excellent communication skills, oral, written and by use of telephone

  • Excellent customer service skills

Preferred Qualifications

  • Health care experience in a hospital setting


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