Research Associate / Paraplanner - Full-time / Part-time

Financial consulting company in Crystal Lake, IL is seeking a Research Associate / Paraplanner. This is a great job for new grads in finance or accounting that love research and thinking of being an analyst.  No experience required…just degree completed.

Job Summary: The Research Associate/Paraplanner prepares Client Reviews as requested for Financial Advisors in the office. The Paraplanner also works with the Advisors to create meaningful Financial Plans/Asset Allocations/Retirement Timelines in Money Guide Pro and other special planning-related projects for the Advisors as needed. The Research Associate/Paraplanner is also responsible for researching funds and maintaining the Research Select List.

Research Associate / Paraplanner Responsibilities:

• Deliver to the Advisors complete, accurate well put together Credit Reviews on time
• Create Financial Plans and Asset Allocations for Advisors
• Use Morningstar and other tools to screen funds. Must be able to understand fund performance. Create commentary for funds on the RSL and explain where the funds would be best used. Explain to others why certain funds are or are not on the RSL.
• Facilitate the RSL Committee Meetings (Monthly).  From scheduling to preparing to making sure representatives have done their homework and compiling all data from the monthly meetings, update the RSL spreadsheet and be able to share back with all reps at the Planners Meetings.
• Coordinate and attend Wholesaler meetings on a bi-weekly basis and have a general understanding of the products discussed.  Also will ultimately be the Gatekeeper to only allow strategic partners into our bi-weekly wholesaler meetings.  Will be included in initial wholesaler meetings prior to them becoming Strategic Partners.
• Other duties as assigned

Research Associate / Paraplanner Qualifications:

• Bachelor's Degree in Finance or Accounting
• Social Media savvy
• Attention to detail
• Great interpersonal skills
• Good written and verbal communication skills
• Understanding of Financial Planning software such as Money Guide Pro, Albridge, NeteX360, Morningstar Advisor Workstation and Smartworks

Hours: Monday - Friday | 8 AM - 5 PM

Compensation: $30,000 - $40,000, DOE

If you are interested in this Research Associate / Paraplanner position please send your resume to or call Tiffany at 815-788-8556.