Financial Analyst in Gillette, WY

Here is a comprehensive career guide for Financial Analysts considering a move to Gillette, Wyoming.

---

The Salary Picture: Where Gillette Stands

As a financial analyst in Gillette, you’re entering a market that’s a bit of an outlier. It’s not the booming hub of Cheyenne or the tourist-driven economy of Jackson, but its unique position as the energy and agricultural heart of northeastern Wyoming creates a specific, steady demand for analytical talent. When you look at the numbers, the compensation here is solid, especially when you factor in the local cost of living.

The median salary for a Financial Analyst in Gillette is $98,118/year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $47.17. This is slightly below the national average of $99,010/year, but don’t let that fool you. In a city where the cost of living index is 97.0 (below the U.S. average of 100), that salary stretches much further than it would in Denver or Dallas.

Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect based on your experience level:

Experience Level	Estimated Annual Salary	Key Responsibilities
Entry-Level (0-2 years)	$70,000 - $85,000	Supporting senior analysts, data entry, basic financial modeling, variance analysis.
Mid-Level (3-7 years)	$90,000 - $115,000	Building complex models, leading budget cycles, preparing board reports, mentoring juniors.
Senior (8-12 years)	$120,000 - $150,000	Strategic planning, M&A support, departmental leadership, presenting to executive teams.
Expert/Manager (13+ years)	$155,000+	Director-level oversight, long-term financial strategy, multi-divisional planning.

Comparing this to other Wyoming cities paints a clearer picture. While Gillette’s median salary is on par with Casper and Laramie, it significantly trails the $115,000+ median often seen in Cheyenne, which hosts more corporate and government headquarters. However, Gillette’s job market is more niche and stable, often insulated from the volatility of the broader economy due to its foundational industries. Currently, there are approximately 66 Financial Analyst jobs in the Gillette metro area, with a 10-year job growth projection of 9%. This isn’t explosive growth, but it’s steady, indicating consistent demand rather than a boom-and-bust cycle.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

So, you’ve got the salary number. But what does it actually feel like in your bank account? Let’s run the numbers for a mid-career analyst earning the median salary of $98,118/year.

Your gross monthly income is $8,176. After federal taxes (assuming single filer, standard deduction), state tax (Wyoming has 0% state income tax), Social Security, and Medicare, your take-home pay will be approximately $6,250 per month. This is a significant advantage—no state income tax directly boosts your purchasing power.

Now, let’s factor in the largest expense: housing. The average 1-bedroom rent in Gillette is $921/month. For a more comfortable lifestyle, a 2-bedroom apartment averages around $1,200/month. Let’s budget for a 1-bedroom to maximize savings.

Monthly Expense Category	Estimated Cost	Notes
Rent	$921	1BR average; can be lower in some neighborhoods, higher in new complexes.
Utilities	$250	Includes gas, electric, water, garbage. Winters can be harsh, so heating costs matter.
Internet	$75	Spectrum is the primary provider; options are limited.
Car Payment/Insurance	$500	Public transit is minimal; a reliable vehicle is a necessity.
Groceries	$450	Similar to national averages; limited specialty stores compared to larger cities.
Health Insurance	$300	Varies widely by employer; this is a typical post-deductible estimate.
Miscellaneous (Dining, Entertainment)	$500	A mix of local restaurants, casual bars, and home entertainment.
Savings/Investments	$2,254	Leftover from take-home pay, assuming a disciplined budget.

Can they afford to buy a home? Absolutely. The median home price in Campbell County is well below the national average, typically in the $300,000 - $350,000 range. With your take-home pay and strong savings potential, a 20% down payment is achievable within a few years. A typical monthly mortgage payment (including taxes and insurance) on a $325,000 home would be around $1,800 - $2,000, which is manageable on your salary, especially if you pair up with a partner. The decision often comes down to lifestyle—Gillette is a "buy" market, but it requires a commitment to the community, as selling a home quickly isn't always as easy as in a major metro.

Where the Jobs Are: Gillette's Major Employers

Gillette’s job market is anchored by a few key sectors: energy, healthcare, and education. Financial analysts here don’t work at Wall Street firms; they work for companies that keep the lights on, literally and figuratively. Here are the major local employers you should target:

1. Campbell County Health (CCH): The largest employer in the county. CCH operates the Memorial Hospital of Campbell County and several clinics. They have a robust finance department needing analysts for budgeting, grant management, and operational cost analysis. Hiring is steady, driven by healthcare’s constant need and federal funding cycles.

2. Gillette College: Part of the Northern Wyoming Community College District. The college’s finance office handles state allocations, student tuition, and facility projects. Positions here are stable, with good benefits, and often require a deeper understanding of public sector accounting.

3. Campbell County School District #1: Another major public sector employer. They manage a large budget for K-12 education, funded by local property taxes and state aid. Financial analysts here focus on long-term capital planning, bond measures, and operational efficiency.

4. The Energy Sector (Peabody, Arch Resources, Cloud Peak Energy): While the mining industry has seen fluctuations, it remains the economic engine. Major coal companies like Peabody and Arch have local operations. Their finance teams analyze mine economics, commodity price hedging, and asset valuation. This is where you find the highest-paying analyst roles, but they can be cyclical.

5. Wyoming Energy Resources Authority (WERA): A state-level entity with a significant local presence. They manage state loans and funds for energy projects. Analysts here work on economic development, project financing, and grant distribution.

6. Local Banks and Credit Unions: First National Bank of Gillette and Campbell County Federal Credit Union are always in need of commercial loan analysts and branch managers with analytical skills. These roles are less about modeling and more about credit risk and customer profitability.

Insider Tip: Many of these jobs aren’t heavily advertised on national platforms. The best way to find openings is to check the direct career pages of these employers and network with professionals on LinkedIn who are already at these companies. The "Gillette Network" is real; a personal referral goes a long way.

Getting Licensed in WY

Wyoming has a relatively straightforward approach to financial credentials. You do not need a state-specific license to work as a financial analyst in a corporate or public sector role. However, professional certifications are highly valued and can significantly boost your salary and prospects.

For most analyst roles, no state license is required. The key is to meet the employer's education and experience requirements. A bachelor’s degree in finance, accounting, or economics is the standard entry point.

If you plan to offer investment advice or manage portfolios, you would need to register with the Wyoming Division of Banking and the Securities Division. The process involves:

1. Passing Exams: The Series 7 (General Securities Representative) and Series 66 (Uniform Combined State Law) are common.
2. Sponsorship: You must be sponsored by a registered securities firm.
3. Costs: Exam fees are typically $80-$300 per exam. The bigger cost is study materials and prep courses, which can run $500-$1,500.

Timeline: If you’re already licensed in another state, Wyoming will often reciprocate under FINRA’s rules, making the transition fast (a few weeks). If you’re starting from scratch, expect 3-6 months of study and exam scheduling to get fully licensed.

For the analytical roles in energy or public finance, pursuing a CFA (Chartered Financial Analyst) or CPA (Certified Public Accountant) designation is more relevant than a securities license. Wyoming’s Secretary of State website is the best resource for licensing specifics.

Best Neighborhoods for Financial Analysts

Gillette is a compact city. Commute times are short, typically under 15 minutes. Your choice of neighborhood will depend more on your lifestyle and housing preference than on proximity to work.

1. Downtown Gillette: The historic core. Walkable to local shops, bars like The Den, and the Campbell County Public Library. Housing stock is a mix of older, charming homes and some newer townhomes. It’s perfect for someone who wants to be close to the social scene. Rent Estimate: $900 - $1,300 for a 1BR/2BR apartment.

2. Westridge / College Heights: Located on the west side of town, this area is close to Gillette College and the new hospital facilities. It’s predominantly residential with newer subdivisions and well-kept homes. Very family-friendly and quiet. Rent Estimate: $950 - $1,400 for a 2BR apartment or starter home.

3. Sheridan Corridor (Highway 14-16): This is the main commercial corridor with big-box stores (Walmart, Home Depot) and chain restaurants. Housing here is a mix of older apartments and newer complexes. It’s incredibly convenient for errands and has the easiest access to I-90 for weekend trips. Rent Estimate: $850 - $1,150 for a 1BR/2BR.

4. The areas near Cam-plex (Exhibition Center): While a bit more spread out, this area is close to the regional airport and has seen new development. It’s a good option if you value space and don’t mind driving a few extra minutes to the city center. Rent Estimate: $800 - $1,200 for a 2BR.

Insider Tip: The rental market is tight. Good apartments get snatched up quickly. Start your search 45-60 days before your move date, and be prepared for a security deposit equivalent to one month’s rent.

The Long Game: Career Growth

In Gillette, career growth is less about rapid promotions and more about deepening your expertise and taking on more responsibility within a stable organization. The 10-year outlook is positive, with a 9% job growth rate, but it’s not explosive.

Specialty Premiums: You can command a salary premium by specializing in areas critical to Gillette’s economy:

• Energy Economics: Understanding the nuances of coal, natural gas, and now, wind power development. This is the highest-paid specialty.
• Public Finance & Grant Writing: Crucial for roles in government, education, and healthcare. Expertise here makes you invaluable for securing funding.
• Agricultural Finance: Working with local co-ops, lenders, and ranching operations.

Advancement Paths: The typical path is from Junior Analyst to Senior Analyst, and then into management (Finance Manager, Controller) or a specialized director role (Director of Planning, Chief Financial Officer). Lateral moves between major employers (e.g., from the school district to the hospital) are common and often come with a pay bump.

10-Year Outlook: Gillette is actively diversifying its economy. While coal remains king, investments in wind energy, data centers (due to the cool climate and existing power infrastructure), and agriculture are growing. A financial analyst with skills in project finance for renewable energy or data analytics for agricultural commodities will be extremely well-positioned over the next decade. The key is to remain adaptable and continue learning outside of your niche.

The Verdict: Is Gillette Right for You?

Pros	Cons
Low Cost of Living & No State Income Tax: Your $98,118 salary buys a high quality of life.	Limited Diversity of Industries: Heavily reliant on energy and government sectors.
Strong, Stable Job Market: 66 jobs and 9% growth offer security.	Isolation: 3.5 hours from Rapid City, SD; 4.5 hours from Denver. Cultural amenities are limited.
Short Commutes & Easy Living: 15-minute commutes are the norm.	Harsh Winters: Nor'easters and sub-zero temperatures are common from November-March.
Outdoor Access: Unparalleled access to hunting, fishing, camping, and hiking in the nearby Bighorn Mountains.	Social Scene: Limited nightlife and dining options compared to a city. It’s a "small town" feel.
Tight-Knit Community: Easy to meet people and get involved, especially through outdoor clubs or volunteer work.	Housing Market Volatility: Can be tricky to sell a home if the energy sector dips.

Final Recommendation: Gillette is an excellent choice for a Financial Analyst who is outdoorsy, values financial stability over urban buzz, and is looking to buy a home and build wealth. It’s perfect for those who see their career as a marathon, not a sprint, and who find satisfaction in a close-knit community and access to nature. If you crave the energy of a large city, diverse culinary scenes, and a fast-paced career ladder, Gillette will feel too small and slow.

FAQs

Q: Is the job market for financial analysts really only 66 jobs?
A: That number typically reflects actively advertised positions on major job boards. In a city like Gillette, many roles are filled through internal promotions or networking. The actual number of employed analysts is higher, and the 66 openings represent a healthy, active market for outsiders.

Q: How important is it to be licensed in Wyoming?
A: For 90% of financial analyst roles in Gillette—corporate, public sector, or energy—not at all. The licenses (Series 7/66, CPA, CFA) are credentials you earn for your resume, not state-mandated permissions to work. They boost your salary potential but aren't a barrier to entry.

Q: What’s the dating/social scene like for a young professional?
A: It’s what you make of it. It’s not a college town, but there are active young professional groups, sports leagues (softball, hockey), and outdoor clubs (hiking, fishing). You’ll meet people at work, through community events, or at local breweries. It requires more effort than in a large city.

Q: I have an offer in Gillette and one in Cheyenne. Which has better long-term career prospects?
A: Cheyenne offers more variety (government, finance, tech) and a larger network, which can be better for jumping between industries. Gillette offers deeper expertise in a few key sectors (energy, public finance) and a lower cost of living. If you love the energy sector, choose Gillette. If you want options, choose Cheyenne.

Q: Will my skills transfer from a major financial center?
A: Yes, but the application changes. Your complex modeling skills will be valued, but you’ll need to learn local economic drivers (coal prices, state funding formulas, agricultural cycles). The pace is slower, and the focus is more on practical, long-term planning than high-frequency trading analysis. Be prepared to adapt your approach.