As the nation eases out of a recession that has crippled the business world over the past two years, many companies soon will start to think about hiring again.
Demand for accounting, information technology and administrative professionals should increase in the next year as companies look to fill these crucial positions with the candidates who are able to multitask and bring a varied skill set to the job, experts say.
And though experts expect salaries in many jobs to remain flat, some are expected to rise.
Robert Half International, a worldwide staffing firm that locally services companies in Fort Mill and Rock Hill, has compiled a list of 10 promising jobs for 2010, based on demand and expected salary increases in some fields.
Here's a breakdown of what the firm says to look for:
1. Tax accountant
Why: Companies want tax accountants who can help their organizations save money using tax management strategies, according to Robert Half International. Businesses also need help staying compliant with tax regulations, the firm says.
Bottom line: Tax accountants in the Charlotte area with one to three years of experience at large companies (more than $250 million in sales) are expected to see an average starting salary between $49,290 and $65,100. That's up roughly 0.5 percent from 2009.
How can I get this job?: Companies generally require a bachelor's degree in accounting, one to three years of experience and knowledge of tax specific software, according to RHI. Winthrop University and York Technical College both offers programs in accounting.
2. Compliance director
Why: Robert Half International says firms need people who can help them comply with U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission mandates and prepare for a potential transition to International Financial Reporting Standards. New regulations stemming from the financial crisis might mean more demand for compliance expertise.
Bottom line: The starting salary range for a compliance director at a small company (up to $25 million in sales) in the Charlotte area is forecast to be between $88,775 and $115,010.
How can I get this job?: RHI says that in addition to a minimum of five to 10 years of relevant experience in accounting, auditing, compliance and management, this job also requires a bachelor's degree and an MBA. Other certifications might be desired, too, as well as experience working in a regulated industry. Locally, Winthrop University offers an MBA program.
3. Credit manager/ supervisor
Why: Companies need professionals who can help the bottom line by reducing inefficiencies and growing profitability, RHI says. That means there's a high demand for credit and collections specialists who can evaluate credit risk, manage delinquent payments and help improve cash flow, according to RHI.
Bottom line: Credit managers/supervisors in small companies in the Charlotte region can expect a salary of between $45,050 and $60,950 in 2010.
How can I get this job?: At least five years of credit and/or collections experience is required for this job, according to Robert Half International. A bachelor's degree in accounting, finance or business administration is preferred.
4. Senior financial analyst
Why: Businesses need people who can study financial plans, including forecasts and budgets, and find ways to be more profitable, according to RHI.
Bottom line: A Charlotte-area senior financial analyst at a midsize company ($25 million to $250 million in sales) can expect to earn a starting salary between $61,215 and $78,440 in 2010.
How can I get this job?: A company will expect a candidate for this job to have at least a bachelor's degree in accounting but likely will prefer an MBA along with three to five years of experience, RHI says. Job-specific computer skills, such as advanced experience using Microsoft Excel and Access, are preferred along with modeling and ad hoc reporting. Locally, York Tech offers classes in Excel, Access and other popular office software.
@Nyx.CommentBody@