Financial Quantitative Analysts
O*NET 13-2099.01 · SOC 13-2099
Financial Quantitative Analyst is a solid career choice. Median pay is $81k a year with +4.1% projected growth through 2035 (about as fast as average) and about 9,400 openings a year. AI exposure: Elevated.
Bureau of Labor Statistics projections 2025–2035 · Data updated 2026-07-27
What You'd Actually Do
- →Build mathematical models to price financial derivatives.
- →Analyze market risk using statistical and quantitative methods.
- →Develop algorithms to identify profitable trading strategies.
- →Backtest trading models against historical market data.
- →Present quantitative findings to portfolio managers and traders.
Education & How to Get In
Financial Quantitative Analyst roles typically require a master's degree, doctorate, or professional degree. This is a long-term investment, expect 6–10 years of post-secondary education, but the depth of expertise commands strong compensation and career stability.
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Work Environment
Analytical, research labs, offices, or remote
Independent, focused deep work with periodic team check-ins
A Day in the Life
While every role varies by employer and specialization, a typical day as a Financial Quantitative Analyst involves a mix of core responsibilities:
Personality Fit (RIASEC)
Who Thrives as Financial Quantitative Analyst?
Based on the interests and work style this role actually demands, these personality types tend to fit it best. Salary and growth tell you if a career is worth entering; personality fit tells you whether you'll still want it in five years.
Not sure which you are? Take the 7-minute quiz →
See Open Financial Quantitative Analyst Roles
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Job Outlook
Employment of Financial Quantitative Analysts is projected to grow 4.1% from 2025 to 2035, about as fast as average for all occupations.
Will AI Replace This Job?
- ·47% routine cognitive tasks, high automation target
- ·30% creative/strategic tasks, AI augments, doesn't replace
- ·Industry sector with high AI adoption trajectory
Scored from the mix of routine, creative, physical and social tasks the role involves, adjusted for sector and projected growth. An estimate, not a forecast.
Common Questions
How much does a Financial Quantitative Analyst make?
The median Financial Quantitative Analyst earns $81k a year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics' May 2025 wage data. Half earn more than that and half earn less, and pay varies considerably by state, industry and experience.
Will AI replace Financial Quantitative Analyst jobs?
Our model puts Financial Quantitative Analyst at 55 out of 100 for automation exposure, which is elevated disruption risk. The main drivers: 47% routine cognitive tasks, high automation target; 30% creative/strategic tasks, AI augments, doesn't replace.
Is Financial Quantitative Analyst a growing field?
Employment is projected to grow 4.1% between 2025 and 2035, which is about as fast as average. That works out to roughly 9,400 openings a year, counting both new positions and people leaving the occupation.
What degree do you need to be a Financial Quantitative Analyst?
Financial Quantitative Analyst roles generally require a master's, doctorate or professional degree, so plan for graduate study rather than a bachelor's alone.
How long does it take to become a Financial Quantitative Analyst?
Typically six to ten years, typically a master's, doctorate or professional degree. O*NET classes this role as Job Zone 5 of 5, which describes how much preparation people in it usually have.
Is a Financial Quantitative Analyst career right for you?
Your personality, values, and strengths matter as much as the job market. Take the quiz to see your personalized Future-Fit Score for this career and hundreds more.
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