Budget Analysts

Employers

Budget analysts are employed by companies, nonprofit organizations, government agencies, and other entities that need workers with budget expertise. The U.S. Department of Labor reports that the largest employers of budget analysts in 2023 were:

• federal government agencies: 25 percent
• state government agencies (excluding education and hospitals): 12 percent
• local government agencies (excluding education and hospitals): 11 percent
• colleges, universities, and professional schools: 10 percent
• companies and enterprises: 7 percent

Some budget analysts open their own consulting firms and provide their expertise to the aforementioned employers.

Starting Out

Some employers hire new college graduates for budget analyst positions, while others require their analysts to have several years of experience in lower-level financial analysis positions (preferably those that focus on budgetary issues). Many analysts learn about job openings via contacts that they make during internships or at career fairs and other networking events. Other ways to learn about jobs include using Web sites such as LinkedIn and those that are sponsored by associations, by utilizing the resources of one’s college’s career service office (which can also provide advice on crafting quality resumes and preparing for job interviews), and by contacting employers directly about potential employment openings. Those interested in positions with federal agencies should visit the U.S. Office of Personnel Management's website, https://www.usajobs.gov.