Description

Junior paraplanners work in the financial services industry, typically for bigger firms that advise a large number of clients daily. They assist financial planners and regular paraplanners in helping gather documentation, files and other necessary information that licensed financial planners and advisors use in consulting with clients. Junior paraplanner is typically an entry-level position that involves reporting to both a paraplanner and any certified financial planners who oversee his or her workgroup.

Paraplanners typically do a great deal of the information-gathering work that may be requested by a certified financial planner or other investment advisor before meetings with clients. This could involve finding all necessary documentation related to company financial products for a client's consideration. They print out detailed reports of client portfolios and performance graphs, and they usually perform tasks such as preparing rooms with legal pads, pens and other supplies for upcoming meetings.

Typically, a person becomes a junior paraplanner as an entry into the financial services industry. Normally, they have at least a high school diploma or equivalent and are usually either recent graduates or still in training at a vocational school or community college that offers paraplanning coursework. Junior paraplanners must possess outstanding organization skills and work during regular business hours in the work week.

Roles & Responsibilities

As a Junior Paraplanner in Australia with 0-3 years of experience, your main responsibilities include:

  • Assist senior paraplanners in preparing financial plans, conducting research, and analyzing client data for investment recommendations.
  • Collaborate with financial advisors to gather client information, assess risk tolerance, and develop personalized financial strategies.
  • Conduct market research and analysis to identify suitable investment products and provide recommendations to clients.
  • Prepare and review financial reports, including cash flow projections, investment performance summaries, and retirement planning assessments.

Qualifications & Work Experience

For a Junior Paraplanner job role, the following qualifications are required:

  • Basic understanding of financial planning principles and concepts, including investment strategies, insurance products, and retirement planning.
  • Strong attention to detail to accurately review and analyze client financial documents, such as statements, tax returns, and investment portfolios.
  • Proficiency in financial software and tools, such as financial planning software and Microsoft Excel, to assist in creating financial plans and projections.
  • Effective communication skills to interact with clients and financial advisors, providing support and gathering necessary information for the financial planning process.

Essential Skills For Junior Paraplanner

1

Legal Environment

2

Financial Analysis

3

Microsoft Excel

Skills That Affect Junior Paraplanner Salaries

Different skills can affect your salary. Below are the most popular skills and their effect on salary.

Financial Analysis

11%

Microsoft Excel

10%

Career Prospects

The role of a Junior Paraplanner in Australia is a crucial entry-level position for individuals with 0-3 years of experience in the field. However, there are several alternative roles that professionals in this industry can consider. Here are four options to explore:

  • Client Relationship Manager: This role involves building and maintaining strong relationships with clients, understanding their financial needs, and providing personalized financial advice and solutions.
  • Investment Analyst: A position focused on analyzing investment opportunities, conducting market research, and providing recommendations to clients or investment managers.
  • Compliance Officer: This role involves ensuring that financial institutions adhere to regulatory requirements, conducting audits, and developing compliance programs to mitigate risks.
  • Financial Planner: A position focused on developing comprehensive financial plans for clients, including investment strategies, retirement planning, tax optimization, and risk management.

How to Learn

Based on the latest data from Google, the projected growth of the Junior Paraplanner role in the Australian market is expected to be positive. Over the past 10 years, there has been steady growth in demand for this position. Employment opportunities for Junior Paraplanners are expected to increase in the future, with a higher number of job openings anticipated. The role of a Junior Paraplanner is valuable in the financial planning sector, and this trend is likely to continue due to the ongoing need for financial advice and planning services.