A treasurer or controller manages an organization's finances, budgets, and accounting systems. You analyze financial data, make strategic decisions, and report to leadership. The role requires a bachelor's degree and strong analytical skills, but offers real responsibility and career growth.
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Treasurers and controllers oversee financial operations for organizations. You manage budgets, direct accounting staff, and ensure accurate financial reporting. Your day involves analyzing financial data, making decisions about resource allocation, communicating with executives and external auditors, and working with accounting software and systems. You stay current on tax law and financial regulations, and you monitor performance against financial goals. This is strategic work that directly shapes how an organization spends and invests its money.
Core work activities
Career video courtesy of CareerOneStop.
Treasurers and Controllers earn a median of $166,570 a year, based on 2025 data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Pay rises with experience, specialty, and location.
The outlook is strong. Employment is projected to grow 15 percent from 2024 to 2034, much faster than average for all occupations, with about 74,600 openings a year.
Top skills
Knowledge areas
You need a bachelor's degree, typically in accounting, finance, or a related field. During your studies, you will build skills in financial analysis, accounting systems, and business law. Many people start in accounting or finance roles and move into treasurer or controller positions as they gain experience and demonstrate leadership ability. Your coursework covers economics, accounting, mathematics, and administration. Entry-level finance jobs help you develop the technical and communication skills this role demands.
Most treasurers and controllers come up through accounting or finance roles, so your path depends on where you start and how quickly you want to move into leadership. If you are deciding between different finance tracks or timing your degree, Pathly can map the treasurer and controller path that fits you and work through it with your counselor to build a realistic plan.
You do not need a license to work as a treasurer and controller, but professional certifications can strengthen your resume.
Common certifications
You like order, accuracy, and systems. You think in numbers and enjoy solving complex problems. You communicate clearly and listen well. You are comfortable with rules and process, and you take responsibility seriously.
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Last updated July 1, 2026.
Data sources. Career details from the O*NET 30.3 Database by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA), used under CC BY 4.0. O*NET® is a trademark of USDOL/ETA. Salary and outlook figures from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (May 2025 wages; 2024–2034 projections), delivered via the CareerOneStop API. Certification, licensing, wage, and outlook data from CareerOneStop, sponsored by USDOL/ETA and the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED).