1

Independent Financial Advisor Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Be Seen First

Mainstay Capital Management is an independent, fee-only, Registered Investment Advisor with over $4 ... Mainstay has been ranked by Barron's as one of the "Top 100 Independent Financial Advisors" in the ...

Be Seen First

Mainstay Capital Management is an independent, fee-only, Registered Investment Advisor with over $4 ... Mainstay has been ranked by Barron's as one of the "Top 100 Independent Financial Advisors" in the ...

Be Seen First

At Kaizen Financial, we believe advisors do their best work when they're supported by a ... Kaizen Financial is an independent, privately-owned financial services firm based in Shelby ...

Financial Advisor Jobs at First Command: Shaping Positive Financial Behaviors since 1958 First ... Independence: Set your own schedule to manage work-life balance. * Flexibility: Mobile career ...

Financial Advisor Jobs at First Command: Shaping Positive Financial Behaviors since 1958 First ... Independence: Set your own schedule to manage work-life balance. * Flexibility: Mobile career ...

Overview Becoming a financial advisor at Northwestern Mutual is a unique opportunity to start a ... As such, they are considered independent contractors3 for income tax purposes, and a statutory ...

Becoming a financial advisor at Northwestern Mutual is a unique opportunity to start a business ... As such, they are considered independent contractors3 for income tax purposes, and a statutory ...

Financial Advisor

Troy, MI · On-site

$137K - $250K/yr

Overview Becoming a financial advisor at Northwestern Mutual is a unique opportunity to start a ... As such, they are considered independent contractors3 for income tax purposes, and a statutory ...

Overview Becoming a financial advisor at Northwestern Mutual is a unique opportunity to start a ... As such, they are considered independent contractors3 for income tax purposes, and a statutory ...

Becoming a financial advisor at Northwestern Mutual is a unique opportunity to start a business ... As such, they are considered independent contractors3 for income tax purposes, and a statutory ...

Overview Becoming a financial advisor at Northwestern Mutual is a unique opportunity to start a ... As such, they are considered independent contractors3 for income tax purposes, and a statutory ...

Financial Advisor

Troy, MI · On-site

$61K - $250K/yr

Overview Becoming a financial advisor at Northwestern Mutual is a unique opportunity to start a ... As such, they are considered independent contractors3 for income tax purposes, and a statutory ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Independent Financial Advisor information

See Michigan salary details

$31.4K

$89K

$125.5K

How much do independent financial advisor jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average yearly pay for independent financial advisor in Michigan is $89,020.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $65,400.00 and $114,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an independent financial advisor?

Independent Financial Advisors (IFAs) are professionals who provide impartial financial advice to clients. Unlike advisors tied to a single provider or company, IFAs can recommend products from across the entire market, ensuring that their advice is unbiased and tailored to the client's individual needs and circumstances. They help with areas such as investments, pensions, insurance, and retirement planning. To operate, IFAs must be appropriately qualified and authorized by relevant regulatory bodies in their country. Working with an IFA can help clients make informed financial decisions and achieve their long-term financial goals.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an independent financial advisor?

To thrive as an Independent Financial Advisor, you need a strong grasp of financial planning, investment strategies, and regulatory compliance, typically backed by a relevant degree and certifications such as CFP or Series 65. Familiarity with financial planning software, portfolio management tools, and CRM systems is essential for effective client management. Strong interpersonal skills, active listening, and ethical judgment help build trust and long-term client relationships. These skills are crucial for delivering tailored financial solutions, maintaining client confidence, and ensuring regulatory adherence.

What are some common challenges independent financial advisors face when building their client base?

Independent Financial Advisors often encounter challenges related to establishing credibility and trust with potential clients, especially when starting out or transitioning from a larger firm. Building a client base requires effective networking, proactive outreach, and ongoing relationship management. Advisors must also differentiate their services in a competitive market, comply with regulatory requirements, and stay updated on financial products to provide tailored advice. Success in this role depends on persistence, strong communication skills, and a commitment to delivering value to clients.

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

AspectIndependent Financial AdvisorFinancial Planner
CredentialsCFP, CFA, or similar certifications often requiredCFP, ChFC, or similar certifications often required
Work EnvironmentTypically self-employed or with independent firmsEmployed by firms, banks, or as independent consultants
Services OfferedPersonalized investment advice, financial planning, estate planningComprehensive financial planning, including investments, retirement, estate
Client FocusIndividual clients seeking tailored adviceIndividuals and families needing holistic financial plans

While both roles involve providing financial advice, Independent Financial Advisors often operate independently and may offer more personalized, flexible services. Financial Planners typically work within firms or organizations, focusing on comprehensive financial plans. The choice depends on your specific financial needs and preferred working relationship.

Can you work independently as an independent financial advisor?

Yes, independent financial advisors often work independently or as part of a small firm, providing personalized financial planning and investment advice. They typically need relevant certifications such as the Series 7 and Series 66, and may operate with flexible schedules, often managing their own client base and business operations.

Do independent financial advisors make good money?

Independent financial advisors typically earn income through fees and commissions, with earnings varying based on client base, experience, and location. According to industry data, the median annual income ranges from $60,000 to over $100,000, with top earners making significantly more. Success often depends on strong sales skills, certifications like the CFP, and building a loyal client portfolio.

How much does an independent financial advisor earn?

An independent financial advisor's earnings typically range from $50,000 to $150,000 annually, depending on experience, client base, and location. Successful advisors often earn commissions, fees, or a combination of both, and certifications like the CFP can influence earning potential.

What are popular job titles related to Independent Financial Advisor jobs in Michigan?

For Independent Financial Advisor jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Independent Financial Advisor jobs in Michigan look for?

The top searched job categories for Independent Financial Advisor jobs in Michigan are:

Infographic showing various Independent Financial Advisor job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 88% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $89,020 per year, or $42.8 per hour.

Investment Advisor / Financial Consultant

Mainstay Capital Management, LLC

Grand Blanc, MI • On-site

$110K - $350K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 29 days ago

Be Seen First

After you apply to this job, you can share why you’re interested to jump to the top of the candidate list.


Job description

Join a growing Registered Investment Advisor with opportunity for advancement.

Mainstay Capital Management is an independent, fee-only, Registered Investment Advisor with over $4.5 billion in assets under management. Mainstay has been ranked by Barron's as one of the "Top 100 Independent Financial Advisors" in the country for the past 17 years and teh Top25 for the past 12 years.

Mainstay Capital Management is seeking an experienced Financial Advisor for our Troy, MI office and one for our Grand Blanc, MI office to help service our expanding client base. Our advisors are paid a base salary plus a generous quarterly bonus and other bonuses. Base salary ranges from $60,000 to $200,000 (dependent on experience level). Additional annual bonuses range from $30,000 to $150,000. We also provide a generous signing bonus.

We do not have sales targets. This is not a high pressure sales environment. It is not commission based. We take exceptional care of our clients, and because we do so, we have significant referral business. We are a company that believes in taking care of clients first and the rest will follow.

$20,000 Signing Bonus

Position responsibilities include:

  • Managing existing client relationships.
  • Developing new client relationships.
  • This position is client relationship focused with no product sales or quotas to meet. Previous book/AUM not necessary.
  • Candidate is responsible for understanding and communicating client's goals, simplifying complicated financial concepts for clients, and ensuring the firm is meeting the client's broad range of financial needs.
  • Candidate must be a flexible, open-minded team player with excellent organizational and communication skills.

Desired Skills & Experience

  • Bachelors degree preferred (preference in finance or business).
  • Minimum three years of work experience investment/finance industry.
  • Solid understanding of financial markets and investments.
  • Ideal candidate has experience advising clients with retirement planning, asset allocation, estate planning, employee benefits, tax planning and insurance.
  • Industry related designations (or working towards) such as CFP, CFA, or CPA preferred.
  • Experience with a retirement planning software program such as RightCapital or MoneyGuide Pro preferred.
  • Ambition, high energy, and strong desire to succeed.
  • Excellent communication and relationship building skills.

Company Description

Mainstay Capital Management is an independent, fee-only, Registered Investment Advisor with more than $4.5 billion in assets under management. Our CEO, David Kudla, is ranked the #1 "Top 100 Independent Financial Advisor" by Barron's and fee-only "Top 100 Wealth Advisor" by Forbes in Southeast Michigan. At Mainstay Capital Management we are committed to providing professional, personalized service. Additionally, with our staff of Certified Financial Planners and Chartered Retirement Counselors, Mainstay offers advice and develops comprehensive solutions for any financial aspect of our client's life.