Career path for finance professionals

A promising future

Within the next 10 years, 33% of finance employees in the BC Public Service will retire, so we're seeking professionals of all levels to start their careers with us today.

Begin now and take advantage of this rich opportunity for advancement.

Start in school

Even if you have not finished your post-secondary education, you can begin in a junior position and see where it takes you while you finish your degree.

With the choice of more than 1,200 positions in multiple ministries, you'll have unparalleled opportunity to gain new experience and broaden your horizons.

Choose a ministry that suits your interests

Work within one of our ministries to combine your finance skills with your personal interests, be it the environment, tourism, economic growth or social development, or go deep into a specialization within the Ministry of Finance, such as tax, debt management, or policy analysis.

Take what you've learned and apply it to new challenges. Continue your education, try out a temporary position, or move between the Ministry of Finance and other ministries to find your passion.

Finance related roles in the BC Public Service

Clerks

Finance clerks might begin by joining a team processing account payments or bills or managing other data systems. Supervising clerks oversee these teams, assign and evaluate work, develop and implement job processes, communicate with staff and senior management and work to resolve issues.

Qualifications for entry-level positions generally include experience in accounts receivable/payable, computer knowledge and, for supervisory roles, experience leading a team.

Administrative officers (levels 9 to 14)

• Oversee the procurement of equipment, goods and services
• Analyze contracts, collect data on cost, quality and life cycles
• Identify and manage risk
• Research and communicate changes in law, environmental procedures and best practices
• Advise and inform senior management and other stakeholders

Qualifications vary according to the position, but usually require certification and experience in administration, procurement and contracts, as well as excellent communication skills.

Financial officers (levels 14 to 30)

We have 900 financial officer positions, involved with everything from accounts to debt, risk management, budget analysis and beyond.

While most positions require an accounting designation and all require familiarity with finance and accounting procedures, some junior positions only require enrolment in an accounting program or equivalent knowledge or experience.

Financial officer positions include tax auditor, debt analyst, accounting team lead (FO 18), financial analyst (FO 14 to 18) and budget analyst (FO 21).

Business leaders

Finance managers might be responsible for:

• Managing financial systems
• Preparing budgets, calendars and revenue/expense forecasts for submission to the Treasury Board
• Reviewing contracts and proposals
• Providing clients and senior management with recommendations
• Overseeing administrative services
• In some cases, exercising spending authority

Professional accounting designations and/or business or administration diplomas are usually preferred for these roles. Other competencies include a concern for order, business acumen, planning and the ability to inspire and lead a team.

The next generation of finance leaders

We want to make sure that future generations of British Columbians are well served by skilled professionals.

Each year, we help more than 200 young students gain practical experience in their chosen field by providing them with practicum placements in a wide range of ministries and positions, including finance. Contact your educational institution to find out more.