How to become a security, commodities, and financial services sales agents

Q: How do I become a security, commodities, and financial services sales agents?

The typical entry-level education is most of these occupations require a four-year bachelor's degree, but some do not..

Q: How much does a security, commodities, and financial services sales agents make?

The median pay in the United States is $78,660 a year (BLS OEWS May 2025).

Buy and sell securities or commodities in investment and trading firms, or provide financial services to businesses and individuals. May advise customers about stocks, bonds, mutual funds, commodities, and market conditions.

Most of these occupations require a four-year bachelor's degree, but some do not.Typical entry-level education

$78,660Median pay a year

Steps to get there

Most employers expect most of these occupations require a four-year bachelor's degree, but some do not..A considerable amount of work-related skill, knowledge, or experience is needed for these occupations. For example, an accountant must complete four years of college and work for several years in accounting to be considered qualified.

What securities, commodities, and financial services sales agents do

Keep accurate records of transactions.
Complete sales order tickets and submit for processing of client-requested transactions.
Develop financial plans, based on analysis of clients' financial status.
Prepare financial reports to monitor client or corporate finances.
Supply the latest price quotes on any security, as well as information on the activities or financial positions of the corporations issuing these securities.
Interview clients to determine clients' assets, liabilities, cash flow, insurance coverage, tax status, or financial objectives.

Skills that matter most

Active Listening
Critical Thinking
Monitoring
Reading Comprehension
Speaking
Active Learning
Writing
Mathematics

Is security, commodities, and financial services sales agents a good career?

On the numbers, this job pays above the typical job. Median pay is 54% above the all-occupation median. Whether it fits you depends on the work itself, the schooling you are willing to do and where you want to live.

Where it pays most

New York $168,340
Massachusetts $100,310
Illinois $99,840
Connecticut $98,560
Vermont $88,280

Securities, Commodities, and Financial Services Sales Agents salary by state and city

Sources: O*NET® 31.0 (CC BY 4.0, USDOL/ETA) and BLS Employment Projections 2025–35. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025.