Budget analysts

Onlinemba; California (MD); Hybrid; USD 70,000 - 86,000; Full time

Job summary

Onlinemba is looking for a finance budget analyst to manage organizational budgets. The successful candidate will analyze past spending, collaborate with managers, and ensure compliance with regulations.

Applicants should have a bachelor’s degree in finance or business and at least two years of experience in budgetary roles. The position offers a competitive salary, with median earnings around $78,970.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in a business-related field required.
• Two years of experience in budgeting or finance.
• Strong analytical skills and ability to manage regulatory changes.

Responsibilities

• Plan, develop, and oversee organizational budgets.
• Analyze spending reports and budget proposals.
• Collaborate with managers to make budget recommendations.

Skills

Communication

Analysis

Organization

Attention to Detail

Accounting

Administration

Software Proficiency

Math Skills

Education

Bachelor’s degree in finance, business, public administration, or a related field

Two years of professional experience in a budgetary or financial position

Job description

Interested in a career as a finance budget analyst? Discover the role’s core duties, required qualifications, and typical compensation.

What Does a Budget Analyst Do?

Budget analysts plan, develop, and oversee organizational budgets. They work with managers across their organizations, collecting budget proposals from department heads and program managers, and then present organization‑wide budget recommendations to executive managers. In addition, they check spending reports, research regulations, and evaluate shifting budget needs throughout the year. For public‑sector analysts they also may report to legislators or prepare information to update taxpayers on various initiatives.

Key Soft Skills

• Communication: Must communicate clearly, both orally and in writing, delivering instructions and collaborating with managers.
• Analysis: Uses critical thinking to analyze past spending and allocate future funds, while monitoring current budgets.
• Organization: Keeps departmental and organization‑wide records, maintaining effective information tracking.
• Attention to Detail: Detects errors in complex financial records.

Key Hard Skills

• Accounting: Applies accounting principles and understands economics.
• Administration: Participates in leadership and strategic planning, understanding key management principles.
• Software: Proficiency with accounting, financial‑analysis, and presentation software.
• Math: Uses arithmetic, algebra, statistics, and calculus for daily tasks.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in finance, business, public administration, or a related field.
• Two years of professional experience in a budgetary or financial position is typically required to obtain a CGFM credential; an MBA in finance can prepare candidates for advanced roles.
• Strong managerial skills; ability to stay current with regulatory changes.

Salary and Career Path

As of 2020, the median annual salary for budget analysts was $78,970. Salaries vary by education, experience, industry, and location. Federal government budget analysts earned a median of $86,480, while those working in educational services earned $67,800.

Career progression can lead to senior analyst positions, budget director or finance manager roles, and opportunities to obtain advanced degrees or certifications.

Where to Work

Top industries: federal executive branch, state and local government, education, information services, software publishing, and professional, scientific, and technical services. Geographic hotspots include Washington, DC ($104,330 mean salary), Maryland ($97,390), Virginia ($97,020), California ($93,610), and Texas ($79,200).

How to Become a Budget Analyst

Most employers seek a bachelor’s degree in business-related fields; an MBA in finance is a strong advantage. Candidates may gain entry through budgeting or finance experience, and may pursue the CGFM credential by completing required coursework and examinations.

Professional Organizations

• AABPA – Provides industry publications, events, and webinars.
• AAFA – Offers job database, networking, and career assistance.
• AGA – Provides local chapters, training events, and online training.
• NASBO – Publishes best‑practice guides and state‑level data.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a finance budget analyst? They plan, develop, and monitor organization‑wide budgets, ensuring adherence to regulations and efficient use of public funds.

How do I become a budget analyst? A bachelor’s degree plus relevant experience or an MBA, coupled with strong analytical and communication skills.

Is it a stressful job? Tight deadlines and frequent budget changes can bring pressure; effective delegation and communication help mitigate stress.

What is the salary range? Median salary $78,970 (2020) with variation based on industry, education, and location.

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