1

Variance Analyst Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Perform monthly variance analysis comparing actuals to forecast and baseline budget. * Prepare monthly financial reports including budget, actuals, estimate at completion, and variance analysis.

This role is responsible for budgeting, annual standard cost development, forecasting, and detailed variance analysis, while driving insights to support operational and strategic decision-making. The ...

This role is responsible for budgeting, annual standard cost development, forecasting, and detailed variance analysis, while driving insights to support operational and strategic decision-making. The ...

This role is responsible for budgeting, annual standard cost development, forecasting, and detailed variance analysis, while driving insights to support operational and strategic decision-making. The ...

Financial Analyst

Savannah, GA · On-site

$29.68/hr

This role will prepare and review journal entries, accruals, and prepaid schedules, perform variance analysis, and reconcile key balance sheet accounts. Collaborates with accounting and operational ...

This role will prepare and review journal entries, accruals, and prepaid schedules, perform variance analysis, and reconcile key balance sheet accounts. Collaborates with accounting and operational ...

Financial Analyst

Savannah, GA · On-site

$29.68/hr

This role will prepare and review journal entries, accruals, and prepaid schedules, perform variance analysis, and reconcile key balance sheet accounts. Collaborates with accounting and operational ...

Performance to budget with variance analysis; estimate to complete; estimate at complete; and anticipated net operating incomes. * May consult with Program and Cost Account Managers to develop ...

... price variance, inventory lot cost updates, manufacturing job variance analysis, and inventory adjustments Manage customer costing files used to establish sales pricing Qualifications: Bachelor ...

Financial Analyst

Columbus, OH · On-site

$55K - $68K/yr

Variance analysis and reporting * Operating expense and spend analysis * Ad-hoc financial analysis to support business decisions * Gross margin, sales margin, or profitability analysis * Financial ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Variance Analyst information

See salary details

$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.

Cost Analyst, Nuclear

KBH Industrial

Waynesboro, GA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 5 days ago


Job description

Cost Analyst, Nuclear

KBH Industrial |Waynesboro, Georgia | Contract

About Us

KBH Solutions (also known as KBH Industrial) is your most reliable source for project management, project controls and project oversight with associated support services. KBH can and will support all phases of your project.

Job Summary

We are seeking a Cost Analyst to join our Nuclear Project teams. In this role, you will provide cost expertise and financial analysis for assigned projects. You will maintain accurate forecasts and budgets, ensure proper cost allocations, and deliver timely, detailed reporting to support informed decision-making. The ideal candidate will be highly skilled in cost control, variance analysis, and Excel, with experience in the power utility or construction industry.

Key Responsibilities

  • Provide cost expertise for assigned project portfolios.
  • Maintain and update cost projections, forecasts, and budgets.
  • Initiate work orders and prepare unit cost estimates for new projects.
  • Perform monthly variance analysis comparing actuals to forecast and baseline budget.
  • Prepare monthly financial reports including budget, actuals, estimate at completion, and variance analysis.
  • Meet with budget owners (project managers) to review and discuss monthly reports.
  • Maintain complete and traceable records of budgets, forecasts, and actual costs.
  • Conduct independent detailed reviews of projects to assess financial health.
  • Prepare monthly accruals and correcting journal entries as needed.
  • Support Unifier program deployment and related cost management tools.

Qualifications & Skills

Nuclear experience required.

Required Education and Experience

Candidates must meet one of the following qualifications:

  • Bachelors degree in a business-related field, preferably Accounting, plus 5-10 years of cost analyst or job cost accounting experience in a power plant, utility, or construction environment.
  • Associate degree plus 8-10 years of related cost control or accounting experience in the power or construction industry.
  • High school diploma or GED with 10+ years of relevant cost control, accounting, or financial analysis experience in the power industry.

Required Abilities and Skills

Candidates must demonstrate the following:

  • Above-average proficiency in Microsoft Excel.
  • Strong understanding of contractor load boards and detailed estimating.
  • Ability to be self-directed and hold others accountable to deadlines.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
  • Strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
  • Cost control experience in a power utility, construction firm, or industrial plant environment.

Benefits

KBH Industrial offers a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, and vision coverage, a 401(k) program, and other employee perks to support your health, financial security, and work-life balance.