Bank Jobs: Requirements and Training Facts

Are you interested in working in a bank? Want to learn about the requirements and training you'll need to pursue first?

Keep reading. In this article, we'll discuss everything you need to know about working in a bank and give examples of specific bank job titles you could pursue.

What Are the Requirements To Work in a Bank?

Exact requirements for a bank job can vary depending on the exact role. However, most banks expect their employees to meet some basic requirements.

Examples include:

• over 18 years old
• high school diploma or GED
• professional appearance

Some specific banks or positions may require you to have training or certification through a professional organization such as the American Bankers Association.

You may also need to have a bachelor's or master's degree depending on the position you are applying for. That said, some entry-level positions only require a high school diploma or GED.

Those holding specific job titles, such as financial analysts, may need to become certified or licensed to work in their chosen field.

However, these requirements will vary based on industry standards and state or federal regulations; they are not related to working in a bank.

What Training Do You Need To Work in a Bank?

The training you need to work in a bank will depend on the type of bank job you're interested in.

Most entry-level bank employees, such as tellers, don't need to have any formal training, though most banks do require that you have a high school diploma or GED.

More advanced employees, such as loan officers and underwriters, are generally expected to have a bachelor's degree.

The type of degree may not be specified, but most aspiring bank workers choose a major in finance, accounting, business, or a related field.

Some positions may require you to obtain a master's degree. This is especially true if your bachelor's degree is in an unrelated field and you are hoping to pursue an advanced position in a bank.

On-the-job training is usually required regardless of your specific position. This is especially true for individuals who have never worked in a bank before.

Aside from this formal education and on-the-job training, no additional training is required to work in a bank, except when required for specific positions.

What's more, some individual banks may require higher levels of education or training. It's best to check the employment requirements of any bank you are hoping to work for.

What Types of Bank Jobs Are Available?

It takes a lot of people with different areas of expertise to run a bank. There are many different positions and job titles for you to consider.

Let's take a look at some of the most common bank jobs, their job descriptions, and the requirements to work in each role.

Bank Teller

When you think of bank jobs, you're likely picturing bank tellers at work. Bank tellers are the professionals who help you open or change your account, make deposits and withdrawals, and cash checks.

Bank tellers are the everyday faces of the bank and, as such, should be friendly and professional. They must also have strong moral and ethical standards, as well as communication and problem-solving skills.

Many bank teller positions require only a high school diploma or GED. However, some banks may prefer tellers who hold a bachelor's degree.

Mortgage Consultant

Some banks employ mortgage consultants to provide professional guidance for anyone interested in buying a house.

Mortgage consultants look at an individual's, family's, or company's financial history and current financial prospects to help them determine the type of mortgage they could afford.

Mortgage consultants can find employment with only a diploma or GED, though it's preferred that they have a bachelor's degree. They must have a strong understanding of real estate laws and regulations.

Financial Analyst

Financial analysts often work for businesses and individual clients in addition to banks. Their job is to provide expert advice on when, where, and how to make investments.

Financial analysts must be able to think analytically and have a strong sense of market trends. They are extremely knowledgeable about stocks, bonds, and other types of investments.

Financial analysts are expected to hold at least a bachelor's degree in a finance-related field. Many financial analysts also obtain a master's degree for the sake of career advancement.

Internal Auditor

Internal auditors play an important role in keeping banks running. Their job is to ensure all federal regulations are being followed and that the bank maintains financial stability.

Internal auditors routinely assess spending, loans, and other types of expenses and risk factors to find out if the bank is staying within its budget.

Internal auditors must have at least a bachelor's degree, though a master's degree may be preferred. They must be skilled at financial management and have a knowledge of all federal banking laws.

Loan Officer

Loan officers are experts on money lending and borrowing. They have a good working knowledge of all types of loans and assistance their bank provides for clients.

Loan officers also meet with clients to review their financial history and determine whether they are eligible for loans.

Loan officers typically have a bachelor's degree in accounting, business, or some other finance-related major. They also usually have previous experience working in loans or insurance.

Find Your Ideal Bank Job Today

If you would like to work in a bank, consider the bank jobs listed in this article. Be sure to review the necessary training and other requirements before getting started.