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Variance Analyst Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Payment Variance Analysis : Identify, analyze, and research root causes and contract variance trends. Develop and implement corrective action plans to resolve payment discrepancies. Maintain reports ...

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 ...

... and variance analysis • Diverse workload that keeps your role dynamic and engaging Key Responsibilities for the Financial Analyst: • Support costing activities and financial analysis of ...

Prepare journal entries, variance analysis, and balance sheet reconciliations * Perform budgeting, forecasting, and fixed asset/tooling accounting * Conduct labor variance analysis and report ...

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

Fort Worth, TX · On-site

$81K - $102K/yr

This is an outstanding opportunity for an analytical, business-minded finance professional who enjoys partnering with leadership, influencing decision-making, and delivering meaningful financial ...

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Variance Analyst information

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$38.5K

$72.3K

$113K

How much do variance analyst jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 24, 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.

What jobs make $1,000,000 a year?

Variance analysts typically do not earn $1,000,000 annually; such high earnings are usually associated with executive roles, successful entrepreneurs, or highly specialized professionals in finance, investment banking, or technology. Achieving this level of income often requires advanced skills, extensive experience, and sometimes ownership stakes or performance-based bonuses.

Will AI replace financial analysts?

AI can automate routine tasks in the role of a Variance Analyst, such as data processing and pattern recognition, but it is unlikely to fully replace the need for human judgment, interpretation, and strategic decision-making. Financial analysts often use AI tools to enhance accuracy and efficiency, while their expertise remains essential for complex analysis and insights. The role is expected to evolve with technology, emphasizing skills in data analysis, critical thinking, and tool proficiency.

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.

What are top 3 skills for a financial analyst?

A financial analyst, including variance analysts, typically needs strong analytical skills to interpret financial data, proficiency in Excel and financial modeling tools, and good communication skills to present findings clearly. Attention to detail and understanding of accounting principles are also essential for accurate variance analysis and reporting.

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 or accounting professional who specializes in analyzing the differences between planned financial outcomes and actual results, known as variances. They investigate these variances to identify their causes, whether they’re due to changes in costs, revenues, or operational efficiency. Their analysis helps organizations understand financial performance, control budgets, and make informed business decisions. Variance Analysts often prepare detailed reports and communicate findings to management to support strategic planning.

What are the four steps in variance analysis?

Variance analysts typically follow four steps: identifying and measuring variances by comparing actual results to budgets or standards, analyzing the causes of these variances, investigating their impact on financial performance, and reporting findings to management for decision-making. Proficiency in data analysis tools and understanding of financial principles are essential for effective variance analysis.

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 June 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, and 33% Temporary. 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

Posted 27 days ago


University Health System (San Antonio) rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 60 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

68th of 875 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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