Houston, Texas, often dubbed the “Energy Capital of the World,” is a vibrant hub for finance professionals looking to diversify their careers in various sectors, including energy, aeronautics, manufacturing, and healthcare. The city’s robust economy presents a wealth of opportunities for finance experts aiming to grow and succeed in their careers. In this blog post, we’ll explore the types of finance jobs available in Houston, the leading companies hiring for these positions, and the salary ranges one might expect.
Premier Companies Offering Finance Jobs in Houston
- JP Morgan Chase & Co.: As one of the leading financial services institutions globally, JP Morgan Chase & Co. has a significant presence in Houston, offering a plethora of finance roles, from investment banking to wealth management.
- Deloitte: Renowned in the fields of audit, consulting, tax, and advisory services, Deloitte’s Houston office frequently employs finance professionals to cater to its diverse set of clients.
- Wells Fargo: Positioned as a top banking institution, Wells Fargo provides a range of finance-related job openings in Houston, covering areas like commercial banking, capital markets, and financial advisory services.
- KPMG: Offering services in audit, tax, and advisory, KPMG’s Houston offices are perfect for finance professionals aiming to engage with multifaceted financial challenges.
- PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC): PwC hires skilled individuals for a variety of finance-focused positions in Houston, supporting industries such as energy, healthcare, and technology with a finance lens.
Salary Expectations for Finance Professionals in Houston
The salaries of finance jobs in Houston can differ drastically depending on the specific role, experience level, and the company’s scale. According to Payscale, here are some average salary figures in the finance sector for Houston:
- Financial Analyst: $61,171 per year
- Senior Financial Analyst: $84,393 per year
- Finance Manager: $112,984 per year
- Chief Financial Officer (CFO): $147,134 per year
- Accountant: $55,305 per year
It’s worth noting that these figures are averages and may vary with circumstances such as additional skills, certifications, or the position’s current demand.
Starting Your Finance Career in Houston: Useful Tips
If you’re at the threshold of your finance career or looking to reboot your career path in the world of finance, Houston could be the launchpad you are searching for. With its unique blend of industries and a resilient economy, this city offers fertile ground for budding finance professionals. Below are strategies and insights to help you kickstart your finance career in Houston, Texas.
Education and Training
- Educational Foundation: A degree in finance, accounting, economics, or a related field is often the first step. Houston is home to several reputable universities that offer undergraduate and graduate programs to equip you with the necessary knowledge.
- Specializations: Consider focusing on a niche relevant to Houston’s markets, such as energy finance, international trade finance, or healthcare finance, to stand out in the job market.
- Technical Skills: Proficiency in financial software, data analysis tools, and strong Excel skills can significantly boost your employability.
Internships and Entry-level Positions
- Gain Practical Experience: Look for internship opportunities with Houston-based companies. Even if the role isn’t your dream job, it’s a valuable entry point and learning opportunity.
- Explore Graduate Programs: Some companies offer structured graduate programs designed to give a comprehensive view of the finance function in their industry.
Networking
- Join Finance Associations: Tap into resources offered by finance-related associations such as the Houston Association of Finance Professionals.
- Alumni Networks: Leverage your college or university alumni network, which can be a supportive resource for finding opportunities and mentors.
- Social Media Professional Platforms: Engage with industry professionals and join groups on platforms like LinkedIn tailored to Houston’s finance community.
Continuous Learning
- Certification Courses: Undertake certification courses that can give you an edge, such as FINRA licenses (Series 7, Series 63), if it aligns with your chosen field.
- Workshops and Seminars: Attend local workshops, seminars, and webinars focusing on finance to keep learning and stay up-to-date on industry trends.
Building a Personal Brand
- Online Presence: Create a professional online presence. Publish articles or posts relevant to your finance interests and engage with the content of industry leaders.
- Personal Pitch: Be ready with a concise and compelling personal pitch that outlines your skills, interests, and what you can bring to a potential employer.
Mentorship and Guidance
- Seek Mentors: Connect with experienced professionals who can offer guidance, support, and insight into career development within finance in Houston.
- Informational Interviews: Conduct informational interviews with finance professionals to learn more about different career paths and gain valuable advice.
Tips for Securing a Finance Job in Houston, Texas
- Tailor Your Resume: Emphasize experiences and skills that align with the Houston market. For instance, knowledge in energy finance or healthcare billing might stand out to local employers.
- Professional Certifications: Consider pursuing certifications such as Certified Public Accountant (CPA), Certified Financial Analyst (CFA), or Certified Management Accountant (CMA) to demonstrate expertise and commitment to the field.
- Networking: Engage with local chapters of finance professional organizations, like the Houston CFA Society or Houston CPA Society. Attending local industry events can also be valuable for making connections.
- Stay Informed: Understand Houston’s key industries and market trends. Finance roles in Houston may demand knowledge of the energy sector, including oil, gas, and renewables.
- Prepare for Interviews: Finance interviews often include both technical and behavioral questions. Be ready to discuss financial concepts as well as how your experience and skills make you the best fit for the job.
Houston’s diverse economy offers numerous avenues for finance professionals to explore. The city is ripe with opportunities for those willing to specialize in the industries that drive its financial sectors, with competitive remuneration and a promising job market. Whether you’re planning to advance your career in corporate finance, banking, or another financial field, Houston’s dynamic market is a formidable place to take your next career step.
