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Assistant Financial Planner Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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Assistant Financial Planner information

See California salary details

$35K

$59.8K

$103.1K

How much do assistant financial planner jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for assistant financial planner in California is $59,823.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $45,900.00 and $67,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an assistant financial planner?

Assistant Financial Planners are professionals who support financial planners or advisors in managing clients' financial portfolios. Their responsibilities typically include preparing financial reports, analyzing data, conducting research, and assisting in developing financial plans for clients. They often interact with clients to gather information, process paperwork, and ensure compliance with regulations. This role is an entry-level position that provides valuable experience for those looking to become certified financial planners in the future.

What are the typical responsibilities of an assistant financial planner, and how do they support senior advisors and clients?

As an Assistant Financial Planner, your daily tasks often include preparing financial documents, conducting research on investment options, and assisting with the development of financial plans. You will collaborate closely with senior advisors to ensure client meetings run smoothly, often participating in note-taking, follow-ups, and maintaining client records. This role provides valuable exposure to both client interactions and the technical aspects of financial planning, making it an excellent stepping stone for those aiming to advance to a full Financial Planner position.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an assistant financial planner, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Assistant Financial Planner, you need foundational knowledge in finance, strong analytical abilities, and a relevant degree such as finance, accounting, or business. Familiarity with financial planning software like eMoney or MoneyGuidePro, and progress toward certifications such as CFP or Series 65, is highly valued. Excellent communication, organizational skills, and attention to detail help you build trust with clients and support senior planners effectively. These skills and qualities are crucial for delivering accurate financial advice, ensuring compliance, and fostering strong client relationships.

What is the difference between Assistant Financial Planner vs Financial Advisor?

AspectAssistant Financial PlannerFinancial Advisor
CertificationsCFP coursework, licensingCFP certification, licensing
Work EnvironmentSupport role, assisting plannersClient-facing, providing advice
ResponsibilitiesResearch, preparing plans, administrative tasksDeveloping financial plans, advising clients
Experience LevelEntry to mid-levelMid to senior-level

The main difference is that an Assistant Financial Planner supports and assists Financial Advisors with research and administrative tasks, while a Financial Advisor directly interacts with clients, providing personalized financial advice and planning. The Assistant role is often a stepping stone toward becoming a Financial Advisor.

What are the most commonly searched types of Financial Planner jobs in California?

The most popular types of Financial Planner jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Assistant Financial Planner jobs?

Cities in California with the most Assistant Financial Planner job openings:

Assistant Financial Planner jobs near you
Infographic showing various Assistant Financial Planner job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 87% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $59,823 per year, or $28.8 per hour.

Associate Financial Planner

Edelman Financial Engines, LLC

Danville, CA

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Retirement

Re-posted 10 days ago

Edelman Financial Engines rating

9.2

Company rating: 9.2 out of 10

Based on 12 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

As an Associate Financial Planner, you'll serve to assist Financial Planners in ensuring client happiness while following all regulatory issues. 

Responsibilities:

  • Performs financial planning analyses for clients including, but not limited to retirement, investments, estate, tax, education funding, real estate, and risk management needs analysis
  • Prepares presentations, research, and supporting materials for client meetings and reviews
  • Conducts assessments of clients and prospects' evolving financial planning needs through proactively taking initiative to uncover new financial planning opportunities
  • Provides reports including minimum distributions, performance, billing, insurance policies, and tax consequences
  • Calculates required minimum distributions, income needs, tax consequences, and contributions/withdrawals
  • Provides high-level contact with clients crafted to maintain and improve the client relationship
  • Maintains a proven understanding of the industry, products, and trends

Requirements:

  • Minimum 1-3 years of financial services industry experience required, specifically in a broker/dealer or registered investment advisor environment
  • FINRA Series 65 Required
  • Bachelor's degree in business or finance; or equivalent proven experience
  • Certified Financial Planner designation preferred
  • Financial Services & insurance sales experience preferred
  • Good understanding of finance and investment markets/securities
  • Attention to detail, ability to coordinate work, and follow-up skills are crucial to the successful performance of position responsibilities
  • Ability to prioritize and address multiple projects and meet deadlines is crucial
  • Strong interpersonal, verbal, and written communication skills
  • Detailed knowledge of MS Outlook, Word, and Excel is a must

Edelman Financial Engines takes a market-based approach to pay. The expected base salary range for this role nationally is $104,400 to $121,800, with additional annual bonus of 5% plus an incentive on any net new assets referred. However, final base pay will be carefully determined based on several factors, including responsibilities, job-related skills, relevant experience, geographic location, and market conditions. Additionally, this role may be eligible for other forms of compensation and benefits, such as a discretionary bonus, health, dental and other wellness plans, and 401(k) contributions.

Your recruiter can share more about the specific benefits eligible for this role during the hiring process.

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