Finding accurate data on finance salaries in Nebraska can be challenging.
This comprehensive guide promises to provide detailed insights into finance pay in Nebraska, including average salaries, top paying positions and employers, and strategies to maximize your earnings.
You'll discover geographical variations, the impact of experience and education on pay, a breakdown of bonuses and benefits, projected growth trends, and negotiation tactics to increase your salary.
Introduction to Finance Salaries in Nebraska: Plains Profits and Payouts
Finance professionals in Nebraska enjoy competitive salaries and promising career growth, thanks to the state's diverse industries and business-friendly environment. Major employers like Mutual of Omaha and Union Pacific offer lucrative compensation packages to attract top talent.
While Nebraska may not be known for sky-high salaries like coastal finance hubs, the lower cost of living helps make very comfortable livings. And opportunities abound for advancement as older workers retire.
Let's explore key factors impacting Nebraska finance salaries, from thriving industries to top companies hiring. We'll also break down average pay across experience levels, from junior roles to senior management positions.
Exploring the Landscape of Finance Salaries in Nebraska
Major industries powering Nebraska's economy and finance job market include:
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Insurance - With Mutual of Omaha and other large insurers based here, insurance offers plenty of finance jobs. Underwriters, actuaries, financial analysts, and more find ample openings.
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Railroads - Union Pacific's headquarters in Omaha provides finance opportunities galore. Accountants, financial planners, treasury analysts, and other roles abound.
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Agriculture - From farming equipment manufacturers to food production giants, agribusiness drives demand for accounting and financial talent.
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Healthcare - Fast-growing health systems like CHI Health and Methodist Health System hire financial professionals to support operations.
With major corporations scattered statewide, finance pros have flexibility to work in larger metros or smaller cities. Low unemployment statewide drives competition for talent.
Understanding Average Finance Salaries: From Junior to Senior Levels
According to Payscale, average salaries for common finance roles in Nebraska fall in these ranges:
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Financial Analyst
- Entry Level: $52,000
- Mid-Career: $65,000
- Experienced: $78,000
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Accountant
- Entry Level: $46,000
- Mid-Career: $60,000
- Experienced: $75,000
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Financial Manager
- Entry Level: $59,000
- Mid-Career: $80,000
- Experienced: $103,000
Within individual roles, salaries rise steadily with experience. But even junior level positions pay decently thanks to high business demand for finance skills.
The state's low cost of living also stretches salaries further compared to coastal states. Employees can afford spacious homes and comfortable lifestyles.
So while Nebraska may lack the extreme high salaries of Wall Street, ample opportunities exist to earn very liveable wages in finance across experience levels.
What is considered a good salary in Nebraska?
Nebraska offers competitive salaries for finance professionals compared to national averages. Here is a breakdown of common earnings benchmarks in the state:
Annual Salary
- Top 25% (75th percentile): $80,975
- Average: $53,640
- Bottom 25% (25th percentile): $39,728
Hourly Wage
- Top 25% (75th percentile): $39
- Average: $26
- Bottom 25% (25th percentile): $19
As you can see, Nebraska's top finance professionals can earn over $80,000 per year, while even entry-level salaries tend to exceed $39,000 annually.
Some factors that influence finance pay in Nebraska include:
- Experience level: More seasoned professionals earn higher wages, with managers and directors at the top
- Education: Advanced degrees like an MBA lead to increased earning potential
- Certifications: Credentials like CPA or CFA boost salaries
- Company size: Larger firms tend to pay more than small businesses
- Location: Urban areas may offer slightly higher pay than rural parts of the state
Overall, Nebraska provides strong compensation for qualified finance candidates. The state's business-friendly environment and low cost of living make it an attractive destination for accounting and finance professionals looking to advance their careers.
Does finance pay high?
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), careers in finance do tend to pay higher than average salaries compared to other occupations. Some key highlights on finance salaries in Nebraska:
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The average salary for a Finance Manager in Nebraska is $117,063 per year, which is 48% higher than the national median salary across all occupations ($79,900).
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Within the finance field specifically, median pay can vary significantly by role. For example, Financial Analysts in Nebraska earn a median salary of $83,297, while Budget Analysts come in lower at $75,751.
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Experience level also impacts finance pay. Entry-level accounting and finance roles often start below $50k, while directors and executives can make well into the six figures.
So in summary, yes most careers in finance and accounting do pay above average salaries compared to other industries. However, there is a wide range based on factors like specific role, level of experience, education credentials, company size, and geographic location. Those working in higher cost-of-living metros or larger corporations also tend to earn higher compensation.
How much does a director of finance make in Omaha?
The average Finance Director salary in Omaha, NE is $185,405 as of December 27, 2023, but the range typically falls between $156,723 and $219,082.
Here are some key points about Finance Director salaries in Omaha:
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The average base salary is $185,405, with a typical range of $156,723 to $219,082. This means half of Finance Directors in Omaha make more than $185,405, while half make less.
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Additional compensation like bonuses and profit sharing can add $15,000-$50,000 or more to total pay. Top performers at successful companies can earn significantly higher total compensation.
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Experience level greatly impacts pay. Entry-level Finance Directors with 5 or less years of experience tend to make between $120,000-$150,000, while highly experienced directors with 10+ years earn $200,000+ on average.
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Industry matters as well. Finance Directors at financial services firms and large corporations tend to earn higher salaries compared to those at smaller companies or non-profits.
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Location within Omaha can impact pay too, with directors at downtown or west Omaha companies earning moderately more than those in other parts of the metro on average.
I hope this breakdown gives you a clear picture of typical Finance Director salary ranges in the Omaha area. Let me know if you need any other specifics!
What is the average hourly rate in Nebraska?
The average hourly pay for an Hourly employee in Nebraska is currently $23.57 per hour as of January 2023. This hourly rate translates to an annual salary of around $49,025, assuming a 40-hour work week.
Some key things to note about hourly wages in Nebraska:
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Hourly pay can vary significantly depending on factors like industry, experience level, and geographic location within the state. For example, an entry-level hourly worker may make around $15 per hour, while an experienced professional could make over $50 per hour.
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Industries like finance, technology, and healthcare tend to pay higher hourly rates, while retail, food service, and agriculture pay lower rates.
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Major cities like Omaha and Lincoln have higher wages compared to rural areas.
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Nebraska's minimum wage is currently $10.50 per hour, which sets the lower limit that employers can legally pay.
When negotiating an hourly rate in Nebraska, be sure to research typical wages in your industry and area. Consider your skills, education level, and work experience compared to market rates. Understanding your value can help secure fair hourly compensation aligned with state and local pay standards.
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Comprehensive Compensation Analysis for Nebraska's Finance Sector
Nebraska's finance sector offers competitive salaries with good growth potential. Location, education, experience level, and specific industry play key roles in determining compensation. This section takes a detailed look at these variables.
Geographical Variations in Salary: Comparing Urban to Rural Payouts
Salaries for finance roles tend to be higher in Nebraska's metropolitan areas compared to rural regions. For example, the average salary for a Finance Manager in Omaha is $112,000 per year, while it's $98,000 in non-metro parts of the state. This urban-rural divide is seen across positions.
Factors driving higher urban salaries include:
- Greater availability of high-paying jobs at large corporations and major employers
- Increased competition for talent
- Higher costs of living in cities like Omaha and Lincoln
Nevertheless, rural areas offer advantages like more affordable housing, shorter commutes, and good work-life balance.
Experience Level and Salaries: From Entry-Level to Executive Pay Equity
Experience plays a major role in determining pay rates for finance professionals. Entry-level salaries tend to start around $45,000 per year with mid-career salaries in the $75,000 to $95,000 range. Senior and executive level roles command six-figure salaries, frequently exceeding $150,000 for CFOs and Finance Directors.
In terms of pay equity, Nebraska scores well compared to other states. However, a minor gender pay gap persists, with women earning approximately 5% less than men on average when adjusting for position and experience levels.
Educational Impact on Finance Salaries: No Diploma to Advanced Degrees
Educational credentials greatly influence earning potential. While finance roles are accessible without a college degree, salaries are substantially lower.
Typical salaries based on education level are:
- No Diploma: $35,000 per year
- Associate's Degree: $55,000 per year
- Bachelor's Degree: $72,000 per year
- Master's Degree: $92,000 per year
- JD, MD, PhD or Equivalent: $120,000+ per year
Advanced degrees confer higher salaries but also student debt. Experience and skills ultimately play a larger role in determining compensation than education alone.
Benefits and Bonuses: A Look at the Full Compensation Package
Beyond base salaries, Nebraska finance professionals enjoy additional compensation via:
Health Benefits
- Medical insurance
- Dental insurance
- Vision insurance
- 401(k) matching
- Pension plans
Bonuses
- Performance bonuses
- Year-end bonuses
- Profit-sharing
Top performers can effectively double their base salaries when factoring in bonuses and equity compensation. However, bonus structures vary greatly by company and industry.
In summary, Nebraska provides good and growing career opportunities for finance professionals across diverse industries. Salaries are quite favorable relative to cost of living, especially in non-urban areas.
Nebraska's Financial Services Landscape: High-Paying Roles and Employers
Nebraska's financial services sector offers lucrative career opportunities across industries. Major employers include insurance providers, banks, accounting firms, as well as corporations seeking financial experts.
Top Paying Finance Positions: Finance Manager to Director of Finance
The most lucrative finance roles in Nebraska include:
- Finance Manager: Oversees financial reporting, budgeting, payroll, taxes. Average salary: $97,000.
- Controller: Manages accounting operations. Average salary: $120,000.
- Director of Finance: Leads financial planning and strategy. Average salary: $150,000.
Salaries vary based on experience, credentials, company size and industry. Directors and VPs earn the highest wages.
Leading Employers for Finance Careers: Corporate to Green Plains Companies
Major companies hiring financial professionals in Nebraska:
- Mutual of Omaha: Insurance firm paying $80k-$120k for analysts and managers.
- Union Pacific: Railroad giant offers $90k+ for FP&A experts.
- Werner Enterprises: Trucking leader hires controllers and analysts.
- Green Plains: Biofuel producer seeks plant controllers and finance managers.
Large corporations offer strong compensation but niche players can also pay well for specialized roles.
Finance Manager Salary Spectrum: Entry-Level to Senior Executives
The salary range for Finance Managers spans:
- Entry-level: $65k
- 5 years' experience: $85k
- Director: $130k
- VP: $150k+
Higher degrees like MBAs and CPA credentials boost pay. Geographic location and company size also impact wages.
Navigating Nebraska's Finance Salary Terrain: Trends and Projections
This section examines the job growth, economic health, and salary trajectory for finance careers in the state moving forward, with a focus on the plains profits landscape.
Forecasting Finance Job Growth: From Fiscal Management to Financial Analysis
The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects steady growth for finance roles in Nebraska over the next decade. Key positions include:
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Financial Managers: Expected to grow 8% by 2030, adding over 500 new jobs. Opportunities in industries like insurance, healthcare, and professional services.
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Accountants and Auditors: Projected 10% growth rate, with over 1,300 openings. Demand driven by regulatory changes and need for specialized expertise.
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Financial Analysts: Approximately 9% growth forecast through 2030. Continued need for analysis and insights to guide business strategy.
The common thread is demand for fiscal oversight, financial reporting, data analysis, and strategic planning. Robust job growth expected for managers overseeing finances, accountants ensuring compliance, and analysts providing actionable intelligence.
Economic Indicators and Their Influence on Finance Salaries
Nebraska's economy features:
- Low unemployment rate of 2.7% as of Dec 2022. Tight labor market places upward pressure on wages.
- GDP growth of 2.7% in Q3 2022. Positive trajectory indicates business expansion and hiring demand.
- Major industries like agriculture, manufacturing, and financial services rely heavily on finance roles for operations.
With steady GDP expansion and leading sectors dependent on financial expertise, salaries for accountants, managers, and analysts likely to rise faster than national averages.
Cost of Living in Nebraska: Adjusting Salaries for Financial Comfort
Nebraska's cost of living is 9% below the national average, allowing finance professionals to stretch salaries further. For example, an accountant making the median US salary of $77,250 would have over $6,500 in extra buying power.
Lower costs for housing, transportation and utilities enable comfortable lifestyles, even with salaries under national benchmarks. However, some urban areas like Omaha approach nationwide averages. So geographic differences should be considered when evaluating wage data for Nebraska.
Strategies for Maximizing Your Finance Salary in Nebraska
How to Negotiate Your Salary: Tools and Tactics
When negotiating your salary as a finance professional in Nebraska, having the right tools and tactics can make all the difference. Here are some practical tips:
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Use online salary calculators and comparison tools like PayScale and Salary.com to research typical salaries and benefits for your role, experience level and location. This gives you solid data to back up salary requests.
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Prepare by putting together a summary of your key accomplishments and the unique value you bring to the role. Quantify your contributions to show how you positively impact the bottom line.
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Time salary negotiations to your advantage. If possible, broach the subject when the company has already invested time into your candidacy or has made you a job offer. They'll be more motivated to meet your requests.
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Practice negotiating salary adjustments annually during your performance review. Highlight your achievements over the past year and market data on current pay rates.
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Consider negotiating for other perks besides just salary, like flexible schedules, more vacation time, tuition reimbursement or work-from-home options.
Understanding Pay Schedules: From Paid Monthly to Paid Hourly
The frequency at which you are paid can impact your financial planning and budget management. Here's an overview of common pay schedules for finance professionals in Nebraska and what you need to know about each:
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Paid Monthly: Receiving one paycheck per month. Allows for simplified budgeting but requires disciplined savings each month.
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Paid Semimonthly: Getting paid twice per month, usually on the 15th and last day. More consistent income stream but can complicate financial tracking.
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Paid Biweekly: Getting paid every other week. (26 pay periods per year.) Can make budgeting tricky but offers more frequent income.
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Paid Weekly: Receiving 52 paychecks per year. Smooths cash flow but requires diligent money management.
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Paid Hourly: Earning wages for exact hours worked. Unpredictable income requires strict budget vigilance but offers flexibility.
Evaluate how different pay frequencies fit your lifestyle and spending habits as you evaluate job offers. The right pay schedule for your needs can optimize financial stability.
Closing the Gender Pay Gap in Finance: A Nebraska Report
While salaries for both men and women in Nebraska's finance sector have risen over the past decade, inequities still persist. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the gender pay gap for full-time finance workers is nearly $14,000 annually, with women making only 82% of what men earn. This disparity stems from biases in hiring, promotions, benefits and wage growth over time.
Addressing this pay inequity requires proactive effort from both finance professionals and industry leaders. Women can negotiate salaries, seek mentors and take on visible assignments to boost earning potential. Leaders must foster diversity, implement equal pay policies and create advancement programs supporting women. Together, through transparency and accountability, we can move closer to compensation equality based on merit - not gender - benefiting both employees and Nebraska businesses.
Conclusion: Synthesizing Nebraska's Finance Salary Insights
Nebraska offers competitive salaries for finance professionals, with ample opportunities for career growth and development. Key takeaways include:
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The average salary for a Finance Manager in Nebraska is $97,297 per year. With experience, salaries can reach $130,000 or more.
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Major employers like Green Plains and Mutual of Omaha pay above-average wages compared to other Nebraska companies.
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Salaries tend to be highest in major metropolitan areas like Omaha and Lincoln. Experience level, education credentials, company size/industry, and individual negotiating ability also impact compensation.
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The state's low cost of living allows finance salaries to stretch further compared to other parts of the country. Nebraska ranked #17 in Wallethub's Best States for Jobs in 2022.
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Demand for accounting, budget analysis, financial reporting, and other finance roles is projected to grow over the next decade in Nebraska as companies expand operations.
In summary, Nebraska offers a lucrative environment for building a career in corporate finance, banking, insurance, accounting, investments, and related fields - with salaries on par with national averages but a lower cost of living. Experienced professionals can earn six-figure incomes at leading employers.
