1

Financial Professional Associate Jobs in Michigan

We are seeking an Associate Financial Advisor who shares our vision and values. The Financial ... Actively engage in available training/cross-training and educational and/or professional ...

Financial Aid Associate

Dearborn, MI · On-site

$21.60 - $26.15/hr

The Financial Aid Associate will provide excellent customer service in the Office of Financial Aid in a professional and timely manner by responding to questions from students and college staff via ...

... professionals. Responsibilities * Process biweekly payroll for a multi-state workforce using ADP ... Maintain accurate financial records by posting payable transactions and verifying supporting ...

Embodies a strong client experience culture, being present with every client and teammate and realizing the impact we can have on their day, personally, professionally, and financially. * Accepts and ...

Embodies a strong client experience culture, being present with every client and teammate and realizing the impact we can have on their day, personally, professionally, and financially. * Accepts and ...

New

Embodies a strong client experience culture, being present with every client and teammate and realizing the impact we can have on their day, personally, professionally, and financially. * Accepts and ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Financial Professional Associate information

See Michigan salary details

$38.8K

$76.3K

$118.1K

How much do financial professional associate jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for financial professional associate in Michigan is $76,264.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $47,900.00 and $104,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Can financial advisors make $500,000 a year?

Financial Professional Associates typically do not earn $500,000 annually, as this level of income is more common among experienced financial advisors with established client bases, high-value portfolios, and advanced certifications like the CFP or CFA. Most entry- and mid-level roles in finance have lower salary ranges, with higher earnings often tied to commissions, bonuses, and performance-based incentives. Achieving such a high income generally requires significant experience, a strong network, and a focus on high-net-worth clients.

Is it hard to become a FA?

Becoming a Financial Professional Associate typically requires completing relevant education, such as a degree in finance or related fields, and obtaining necessary licenses like the Series 7 and Series 66. The process involves passing exams, gaining experience, and developing skills in financial advising and client service, which can vary in difficulty depending on individual preparation and background.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Financial Professional Associate, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Financial Professional Associate, you need a solid understanding of financial products, sales acumen, and typically a bachelor’s degree in finance, business, or a related field. Familiarity with CRM software, financial planning tools, and relevant licenses such as FINRA Series 6 or 7 and state insurance licenses are often required. Strong interpersonal skills, ethical judgment, and the ability to communicate complex information clearly help build client trust and long-term relationships. These skills are essential for helping clients achieve their financial goals while ensuring compliance and fostering business growth.

Is $200,000 enough to work with a financial professional associate?

A Financial Professional Associate typically works with clients to develop financial plans and manage investments; the amount of money a client has, such as $200,000, can influence the scope of services provided. While $200,000 is a substantial sum that can support various financial strategies, the adequacy depends on individual goals and the advisor's fee structure, which may include commissions or flat fees. Clients with this amount often seek comprehensive planning, including retirement, estate, and investment management, and should discuss fee arrangements with their advisor.

What are Financial Professional Associates?

Financial Professional Associates are entry-level financial advisors who work with clients to help them manage their finances, plan for their future, and achieve their financial goals. They typically assist with investment planning, retirement strategies, insurance needs, and other financial services. Financial Professional Associates often work under the supervision of more experienced advisors and receive training to develop their skills and knowledge in the financial industry. Their role is essential in guiding clients through complex financial decisions and building long-term relationships.

What does a financial associate do?

A financial professional associate supports financial advisors or firms by preparing client reports, analyzing financial data, and assisting with investment strategies. They often use financial software, maintain client records, and may pursue certifications like the Series 7 or Series 66 to enhance their expertise. The role typically involves a structured schedule and requires strong analytical and communication skills.

What are some common challenges faced by Financial Professional Associates when building their client base, and how can they overcome them?

Financial Professional Associates often encounter challenges in building a robust client base, especially early in their careers when they may lack an extensive personal network. Overcoming these obstacles typically involves proactive networking, leveraging mentorship opportunities, and utilizing company-provided resources such as training programs and marketing tools. Many successful associates focus on building trust with clients through education, transparent communication, and consistent follow-up. Developing a referral system and participating in community events can also help expand their reach and establish credibility within the financial services industry.

What is the difference between Financial Professional Associate vs Financial Advisor?

AspectFinancial Professional AssociateFinancial Advisor
Required CredentialsTypically Series 6/7, possibly life insurance licensesSeries 7, 66, or 65, and relevant licenses
Work EnvironmentSupport role in financial firms, assisting advisorsClient-facing, providing financial planning and investment advice
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in brokerage firms, banks, and financial institutionsUsed across independent and firm-affiliated financial planning practices

The main difference is that a Financial Professional Associate primarily supports financial advisors and handles administrative tasks, while a Financial Advisor directly interacts with clients to develop financial plans and investment strategies. The roles often require similar licenses initially, but their responsibilities and client engagement levels differ significantly.

Infographic showing various Financial Professional Associate job openings in Michigan as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 76% Full Time, and 24% Part Time. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $76,264 per year, or $36.7 per hour.
Financial Associate

Financial Associate

Financial Architects, Inc.

Farmington Hills, MI • On-site

$80K - $100K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 5 days ago


Job description

At Financial Architects, Inc. (FAI) and FAI Advisors, Inc., we are dedicated to our mission of *Helping People Live a Life of Freedom* by *Simplifying the Complexity of Money Decisions.* Our culture is grounded in these core values:

  • Strive for Improvement Every Day
  • Think Beyond Limits
  • Serve Others First

We are looking for an experienced Financial Associate who is eager to grow their planning expertise, contribute to client success, and develop along a professional path toward becoming a future Lead Advisor. Similar industry roles are Financial Assistant.

Position Overview:

The Financial Associate plays a vital role in delivering our Financial Architecture process. Working closely with Lead Advisors and Client Relationship Coordinators, this role helps ensure the successful design, implementation, and ongoing management of client financial plans. Sales and business prospecting are not required.  The focus is on technical planning support and collaborative execution alongside the advisory team.

This is an excellent opportunity for a developing professional who has a strong foundation in financial planning and is motivated to expand their skills, gain direct client exposure, and grow into increased responsibility.

Core Responsibilities:

  • Lead the preparation, updating, and refinement of comprehensive financial plans, ensuring recommendations align with client goals and the firm’s Financial Architecture framework. 
  • Independently prepare planning analyses and scenario modeling across investments, retirement, insurance, tax, and estate planning, identifying planning trade-offs and considerations for advisor review. 
  • Support Lead Advisors in discovery, modeling, and strategy meetings by leading meeting preparation, client data validation, and creation of client-ready deliverables. 
  • Present select portions of financial plans, investment reviews, or tax analyses in client meetings as experience and confidence develop. 
  • Assist with investment-related analysis, including portfolio alignment reviews, rebalancing support, and coordination of cash flow sourcing across accounts. 
  • Collaborate closely with Lead Advisors and Client Relationship Coordinators to deliver seamless client service, maintaining accurate and current records in CRM and planning systems. 
  • Pursue ongoing professional development, including CFP® coursework or advanced licensing, and contribute to continuous improvement of planning processes and client service delivery. 

Knowledge, Skills, and Experience:

  • Bachelor’s degree in finance, business, economics, or equivalent experience.
  • 2–5 years of financial planning or paraplanning experience, ideally in an RIA or fiduciary advisory environment.
  • Working knowledge of portfolio management principles and tax-efficient investing concepts, including asset location, tax-loss harvesting, and coordination across account types.  Ideally licensed with Series 65.
  • Knowledge of financial planning concepts including retirement, cash flow planning, insurance, investments, and tax basics.
  • Ability to prepare clear, client-ready materials related to investment and tax planning, with increasing independence over time. 
  • Demonstrated ability to manage planning responsibilities with minimal oversight, exercising sound judgment while knowing when to escalate or collaborate. 
  • Comfort working within a structured planning process while contributing insights and recommendations that improve plan quality and client outcomes. 
  • Desire to continue developing technical expertise and advisory judgment through mentorship, feedback, and progressively more complex planning cases. 
  • Progress toward the CFP® designation or similar certifications strongly preferred (CFP® candidates encouraged).
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office tools and planning software (RightCapital, eMoney, Nitrogen, or equivalent).
  • Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and ability to manage multiple tasks.
  • Effective communicator - Able to explain concepts clearly to clients and team members.

Opportunity for Growth:

  • Gradually increase direct participation in client meetings, including presenting portions of financial plans, investment reviews, and tax analyses as experience and confidence grow. 
  • Develop professional judgment by integrating cash flow, investment, and tax considerations to support long-term client decision-making and relationships. 
  • Earn expanded ownership of planning work over time, including greater responsibility for plan preparation, analysis, and coordination across the advisory team. 
  • Grow into a trusted planning partner for Lead Advisors, contributing proactively to meeting preparation, client discussions, and ongoing plan refinement.