smartblogger094An Introduction to High-Paying Financial Analyst Careers in Chicago
For recent college graduates looking to start their careers in finance, Chicago offers many opportunities to break into the industry at well-compensated financial analyst roles. With a reputation as a major financial hub, the city is home to dozens of corporations, banks, and consulting firms that hire new talent each year into analyst positions paying $70,000 or more.
An added perk is that some of these roles even offer visa sponsorship for international students seeking work authorization in the United States.
In this guide, we will explore the types of financial analyst careers available in Chicago that meet the $70k+ salary range and provide visa assistance. We will discuss the roles, required qualifications, and hiring processes at top companies.
Additionally, we will address some frequently asked questions about relocating, working in finance, and obtaining an H-1B visa. By the end, you will have a thorough understanding of high-paying entry-level opportunities in the Chicago financial sector and what it takes to break into one of these positions.
Corporate Financial Analyst Roles
Many large multinational corporations have significant operations and headquarters in Chicago. As a result, these companies bring on dozens of new analysts each year to support various areas of finance including investment banking, accounting, FP&A (financial planning and analysis), and treasury. Some notable examples include:
Boeing financial analyst program
As one of Chicago’s largest private employers, Boeing hires financial analysts across its commercial and defense divisions. Roles range from working with investment bankers on M&A transactions to facilitating annual budgeting cycles.
Boeing offers new analysts rotational training opportunities and a salary of $70k with benefits. Applicants should have a bachelor’s degree in finance, accounting or other quantitative major.
United Airlines finance development program
United’s program places new analysts in different finance groups for six months each, covering areas like revenue management, investor relations, and corporate accounting. Graduates are equipped to take on full-time analyst roles at the end with a starting pay of $72k. Candidates need a four-year degree and courses in accounting, finance, economics, or a related field.
Caterpillar finance rotational program
At Caterpillar, rotational analysts gain exposure to various aspects of operational finance including internal audit, financial planning, and treasury. They earn $75k as part of a two-year program that prepares them for managerial finance careers. Applicants usually have a business, finance, or engineering degree along with strong spreadsheet skills.
Banking & Consulting Financial Analyst Roles
Chicago hosts offices of major investment banks, commercial banks, and consulting firms that provide opportunities for new graduates as well. Here are a few examples:
Goldman Sachs investment banking analyst program
As one of the most prestigious programs in the financial world, Goldman Sachs trains analysts in transaction advisory, capital markets, and sales/trading. The 80-hour work weeks come with generous compensation of $85k plus bonuses for those able to thrive in the intense environment. Candidates need a quantitative major and strong quantitative/analytical abilities.
JPMorgan Chase commercial banking analyst program
JPMorgan’s commercial banking division hires analysts to advise mid-size corporate clients and underwrite loan deals. The rotational program offers finance coursework and hands-on client work paying $72k annually. BA/BS in business, finance, or economics with accounting exposure required.
Deloitte financial services consulting analyst role
As a top management consultancy, Deloitte brings on financial services analysts to assist on strategic projects in risk management, financial controls, and M&A diligence. Analysts learn technical and soft skills while earning $70k plus benefits. A quantitative background along with strong communication/critical thinking valued.
Visa Sponsorship Assistance
An important benefit of the aforementioned programs is that many provide visa sponsorship for international students requiring work authorization in the United States.
Companies like Boeing, Deloitte, Caterpillar, and Goldman Sachs actively recruit and sponsor new H-1B specialty occupation visas for qualified foreign national candidates.
Typically, applicants must first complete the on-site interview process and receive a written job offer before the employer can initiate an H-1B petition on their behalf.
Immigration attorneys then guide sponsored employees through the visa application and approval process, which usually takes 6-8 months. Once approved, the new visa allows recipients to legally work and reside in the US for 3 years on an initial basis.
Additional Requirements and Qualities
In addition to basic educational qualifications, most financial analyst roles require the following:
- Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and comfortable with quantitative analysis
- Strong verbal and written communication skills
- Ability to multitask, learn rapidly on the job, and work well under pressure
- US work authorization or eligibility for visa sponsorship (often for international applicants)
- Analytical/problem-solving mindset with attention to detail
It also helps to have relevant internship experience, leadership involvement on campus, and enthusiasm for continual learning. Networking, referrals, and customized resumes/cover letters further boost candidates during the competitive application process.
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