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Paraplanner Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Paraplanner information

See Virginia salary details

$31.7K

$64.9K

$98.2K

How much do paraplanner jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for paraplanner in Virginia is $64,873.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $52,000.00 and $73,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a paraplanner?

A paraplanner works as a junior member of a financial planning team and helps clients develop financial plans to reach their goals. As a paraplanner, your job duties include gathering and reviewing client financial records, modeling possible financial scenarios, and using software to prepare documents with charts, graphs, and other visual aids. You also support financial advisors by helping prepare for meetings, performing research, and making planning recommendations. Some paraplanners work virtually outside of the office.

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

To thrive as a Paraplanner, you need strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and a solid understanding of financial planning principles, often supported by a relevant degree or financial planning certifications (such as the CFP or equivalent). Familiarity with financial planning software, CRM platforms, and compliance systems is typically required. Excellent written communication, organizational skills, and a collaborative mindset help Paraplanners excel in supporting advisors and clients. These skills ensure accurate financial plan preparation, regulatory compliance, and effective client service within a financial advisory setting.

How does a paraplanner typically collaborate with financial advisors and clients?

Paraplanners play a key support role by preparing financial plans, conducting research, and analyzing client data, which allows financial advisors to focus on strategic client interactions. They often work closely with advisors to clarify client objectives and help ensure that recommendations are tailored to each individual’s financial situation. While paraplanners usually have limited direct contact with clients, they frequently participate in team meetings and may occasionally join client calls to provide technical insights. This collaborative environment helps paraplanners deepen their understanding of financial planning and can pave the way for advancement to advisor roles.

What is the difference between Paraplanner vs Financial Advisor?

AspectParaplannerFinancial Advisor
CertificationsCFP, Diploma in Financial PlanningCFP, Certified Financial Planner, or other licenses
Work EnvironmentSupports financial advisors, prepares reports, researchProvides direct advice to clients, manages portfolios
Industry UsageCommonly employed within financial planning firmsWorks independently or within firms, client-facing

While paraplanners focus on research, report preparation, and supporting financial advisors, financial advisors directly advise clients and manage their financial plans. Both roles often require similar certifications, but their responsibilities and client interaction levels differ significantly.

How much do paraplanners get paid?

Paraplanners typically earn between $40,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and certifications such as the Level 4 Diploma in Financial Planning. Senior or specialized paraplanners can earn higher salaries, often exceeding $80,000. The role often requires strong technical skills and familiarity with financial planning software.

Is a paraplanner a good job?

A paraplanner is a financial services professional who prepares financial plans and reports under the supervision of a financial advisor. The role typically requires strong analytical skills, knowledge of financial products, and relevant certifications such as the Level 4 Diploma in Financial Planning. It can offer a stable career path with opportunities for advancement in the financial industry.

Is a paraplanner entry level?

A paraplanner role is often considered an entry-level position in financial planning, suitable for individuals with a basic understanding of finance and strong analytical skills. Many employers require relevant certifications such as the Level 4 Diploma in Financial Planning and some prior experience or training. Advancement typically involves gaining experience and additional certifications in financial advice and planning tools.

What exactly does a paraplanner do?

A paraplanner supports financial advisors by preparing financial plans, conducting research, and analyzing client data. They typically use financial planning software and must have strong analytical skills and knowledge of regulations. Paraplanners often work in office environments and may pursue certifications like the Certified Paraplanner designation.

What are the most commonly searched types of Paraplanner jobs in Virginia?

The most popular types of Paraplanner jobs in Virginia are:

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Paraplanner jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Paraplanner job openings:

Infographic showing various Paraplanner job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 96% Full Time, and 4% Part Time. Highlights an 80% Physical, 9% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $64,873 per year, or $31.2 per hour.

Registered Client Associate & Paraplanner

Raymondjames

Manassas, VA • On-site

$55K - $110K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 6 days ago


Job description

Job Description

"Great things in business are never done by one person. They're done by a team of people."

Our mission is to enrich the lives of our clients and their families by providing quality independent financial advice. Nothing is more important to us than our clients - that's the approach we take by providing a high degree of attention and service.

McDermott Armati Wealth Strategies is seeking a Registered Client Service Associate who has experience or the desire to support financial planning operations. This essential role helps to provide high touch administrative support to Financial Advisors, their prospective and existing clients, and other branch staff team members.

The ideal candidate will have effective communication skills as well as the ability to excel in a fast-paced, detail-oriented work environment. Join us and see where a career at McDermott Armati could take you!

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

  • Services basic inquiries and scheduling of meetings with prospective and existing clients
  • Respond to client inquiries regarding accounts, transactions, and general service matters
  • Process account openings, transfers, rollovers, beneficiary changes, and maintenance requests
  • Maintain accurate and complete CRM records
  • Execute equity, ETF, mutual fund, and fixed income trades as directed
  • Assist with portfolio rebalancing
  • Monitor cash balances and distributions
  • Gather and organize client financial data
  • Prepare and update financial plans using planning software
  • Run retirement, cash flow, and scenario analyses
  • Prepare client-ready reports and presentations
  • Ensure all documentation meets firm and regulatory requirements
  • Maintain organized client files and audit-ready documentation
  • Assist with supervisory reviews and compliance requests
  • Adhere to FINRA, SEC, and firm policies and procedures
  • Perform other duties, as assigned

Key Skills & Competencies

  • Strong attention to detail and accuracy
  • Excellent organizational and time-management skills
  • Professional communication (written and verbal)
  • Analytical mindset
  • Client-first attitude with high integrity
  • Experience with financial planning software
  • Experience with portfolio management or rebalancing tools
  • Experience executing trades in client accounts
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office and CRM systems

Education/Previous Experience

  • Bachelor's degree preferred
  • 3+ years of experience in wealth management or advisory support

Licenses/Certifications

  • SIE, Series 7 & 63/65 or 66 preferred, or willing to obtain in stated period
  • Insurance license preferred

Benefits

  • Medical benefits
  • 401k + Match
  • Profit Sharing
  • PTO + Market Holidays

McDermott Armati Wealth Strategies, LLC and its employees are independent contractors with respect to Raymond James, not employees of Raymond James. The term "Raymond James" includes but is not limited to Raymond James Financial Services, Inc. ("RJFS") and Raymond James Financial Services Advisors. Inc. ("RJFSA") as affiliates.

PLEASE NOTE: The benefits link and benefits description below do not apply to this job posting because the hiring entity is an RJFS independent branch and all RJFS associates at this branch are independent contractors with respect to Raymond James. If you are offered a position by this RJFS branch, employment and benefits will solely be offered by the branch and not by Raymond James.

Education

Bachelor's: Finance

Work Experience

General Experience - 3 to 6 years

Certifications

Securities Industry Essentials Exam (SIE) - Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA)

Salary Range

$55,000.00-$110,000.01

Travel

Less than 25%

Workstyle

Resident

The total compensation for this position includes base salary or wages, and may include components such as additional compensation (cash or equity), discretionary bonuses, or commissions. This position is eligible for a benefits package that may include medical, dental, and vision; life insurance; critical illness insurance and accident insurance; disability benefits; retirement savings; paid time off (including vacation, holidays, and sick leave); and parental leave. Eligibility for benefits and specific offerings may vary based on position and employment status. To view more details of the benefits offered, visit Myrjbenefits.com

At Raymond James our associates use five guiding behaviors (Develop, Collaborate, Decide, Deliver, Improve) to deliver on the firm's core values of client-first, integrity, independence and a conservative, long-term view.
We expect our associates at all levels to:
Grow professionally and inspire others to do the same
Work with and through others to achieve desired outcomes
Make prompt, pragmatic choices and act with the client in mind
Take ownership and hold themselves and others accountable for delivering results that matter
Contribute to the continuous evolution of the firm

At Raymond James - as part of our people-first culture, we honor, value, and respect the uniqueness, experiences, and backgrounds of all of our Associates. When associates bring their best authentic selves, our organization, clients, and communities thrive. The Company is an equal opportunity employer and makes all employment decisions on the basis of merit and business needs.

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