Last Updated: April 19, 2026
Quick Answer: Largest Financial Services Employers
JPMorgan Chase (300,000+ employees), Bank of America (200,000+), and Wells Fargo (200,000+) are the three largest U.S. bank employers. Bank teller and customer service roles start at $17–$23/hr; licensed analysts at investment banks typically start at $70,000–$110,000/yr and require a degree.
Browse Financial Services Job Applications
Financial services is one of the largest private-sector industries in the U.S., spanning retail banking, investment banking, insurance, and payments. Major banks like JPMorgan Chase and Bank of America hire thousands of tellers, branch managers, fraud analysts, and customer service representatives year-round. Insurance carriers like State Farm and Progressive are among the largest employers in their sector, with roles ranging from claims adjusters to agents and underwriters.
Most entry-level bank positions require a high school diploma and passing both a criminal background check and a credit review. Insurance roles often require a state-issued license — typically a property and casualty or life insurance license — which employers routinely sponsor. Investment bank analyst roles are highly competitive and typically require a bachelor’s degree in finance, economics, or a related field.
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Compare Financial Services Employers
Not sure which financial services employer is right for you? These side-by-side comparisons break down pay, benefits, culture, and career pathways at top banks and insurers.
Wells Fargo vs ChaseCompare pay, benefits & culture →
Financial Services Employer Comparison
| Employer | Sector | Entry Pay | Min. Age | Credit Check | Degree Required |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| JPMorgan Chase | Retail Banking | $18–$23/hr | 18 | Yes | No (teller) |
| Bank of America | Retail Banking | $17–$22/hr | 18 | Yes | No (teller) |
| Wells Fargo | Retail Banking | $18–$22/hr | 18 | Yes | No (teller) |
| Citibank | Retail/Global Banking | $18–$24/hr | 18 | Yes | No (teller) |
| PNC Bank | Retail Banking | $17–$22/hr | 18 | Yes | No |
| TD Bank | Retail Banking | $17–$22/hr | 18 | Yes | No |
| American Express | Cards and Payments | $20–$28/hr | 18 | No | No |
| Morgan Stanley | Investment Banking | $70,000+/yr | 18 | Yes | Yes |
| Goldman Sachs | Investment Banking | $85,000–$110,000/yr | 18 | Yes | Yes |
| State Farm | Insurance | $18–$25/hr | 18 | No | No (agent) |
| Progressive | Insurance | $20–$28/hr | 18 | No | No |
What to Expect When Applying
Background and credit checks: All major retail banks conduct both a criminal background check and a credit history review. A challenging credit history does not automatically disqualify you, but significant delinquencies or fraud-related items can affect eligibility for cash-handling and teller roles. Policies vary by employer and specific position.
Licensing requirements: Many financial services roles — including insurance agents, registered representatives, and investment advisors — require state or FINRA licensure. Employers like State Farm, Progressive, and American Express typically sponsor new hires through licensing exams, covering study materials and exam fees.
Remote and hybrid options: American Express, Progressive, and many operations and technology roles at large banks offer remote or hybrid schedules. Branch-based roles (tellers, universal bankers) are always in-person. Investment banks are generally in-office, particularly during analyst programs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the minimum age to work at a bank?
Most U.S. banks require applicants to be at least 18 years old, particularly for teller and cash-handling positions. Investment banks like Goldman Sachs and Morgan Stanley hire exclusively at 18 or older for all entry-level roles, including analyst programs.
Do banks run credit checks on job applicants?
Yes. Most retail banks — including JPMorgan Chase, Bank of America, Wells Fargo, Citibank, and PNC — run a credit check as part of the background screening process for roles involving cash or financial data. Significant delinquencies or fraud history can affect your candidacy, but minor credit issues are often evaluated case by case.
Do I need a college degree to become a bank teller?
No. Entry-level teller and customer service roles at retail banks typically require only a high school diploma or GED. A degree becomes important for roles in financial analysis, commercial lending, wealth management, or investment banking. Many banks offer tuition assistance to employees pursuing degrees while working.
How long does the bank hiring process take?
For branch-level roles like teller or universal banker, the process typically takes two to four weeks from application to offer, including one or two interviews plus background and credit screening. Corporate and analyst-track roles at investment banks can take six to twelve weeks, especially during structured campus recruiting cycles.
Can I get a financial services job with no experience?
Yes. Bank teller, call center representative, and insurance customer service roles are common entry points requiring no prior financial services experience. Employers provide paid training covering systems, compliance, and procedures. Strong customer service experience from retail, hospitality, or food service transfers well to branch banking roles.