Financial Planning Associate

SECU; North Carolina; Hybrid; USD 40,000 - 56,000; Full time

Job summary

SECU is seeking a Financial Planning Associate to support our Financial Advisors and Credit Union Investment Services clients. This entry-level role focuses on administrative, analytical, and workflow support, offering hands-on experience with financial planning software and mentorship from seasoned professionals.

The position embraces a hybrid work environment, emphasizes data accuracy, client data management, and continuous learning in industry trends.

Qualifications

• Must have high school diploma or GED.
• NC Life Insurance or obtain within 2 months.
• Must have good communication skills, both verbal and written.
• Must have good problem-solving skills, strong attention to detail and organizational skills.
• Must complete the Credit Unions Core Module Program within 12 months of hire date as a condition of employment.

Responsibilities

• Data input and management of client financial data into planning software.
• Perform foundational analysis of client financials to identify key data points.
• Assist in drafting preliminary financial strategies for advisor review.
• Compile and track data to generate departmental reports.
• Support UAT for software updates and coordinate training sessions.

Skills

Data entry

Communication skills

Problem-solving

Attention to detail

Organizational skills

UAT

Team collaboration

Education

High school diploma or GED

Bachelor’s degree in Business/Finance/Economics

NC Life Insurance license within 2 months

Tools

MoneyGuide

NetX360

Envestnet

Job description

If you are motivated and believe in the credit union philosophy of "People Helping People", join our team!

Position Overview

The Financial Planning Associate is an entry-level operational role responsible for providing administrative, analytical, and workflow support to Financial Advisors serving SECU’s subsidiary advisor, Credit Union Investment Services clients. This position offers an excellent entry point into the financial planning industry, providing direct mentorship from experienced professionals and hands‑on experience with financial software.

Essential Responsibilities

• Financial Planning Program Support (50%)
  • Data Management & Entry: Accurately input client financial data (assets, liabilities, income, expenses, and risk profiles) into financial planning software.
  • Financial Data Analysis: Conduct foundational reviews of client financial situations to identify key data points and support goal tracking.
  • Plan Preparation: Assist in drafting preliminary financial strategies and recommendations aligned with client objectives for advisor review.
• Administrative & Operational Support (40%)
  • Reporting & Analytics: Compile and track data to generate statistical and operational reports for department leadership.
  • Department Communication: Monitor and triage the central department email inbox, ensuring timely responses to internal and external inquiries.
  • Document Management: Digitally index and upload relevant client documents and planning records into the imaging system.
  • System Testing & Training Support: Assist with user acceptance testing (UAT) for financial planning software updates and help coordinate training sessions and department meetings.
• Professional Development & Subject Matter Expertise (10%)
  • Maintain continuous knowledge of industry trends, regulatory changes, and financial planning best practices.
  • Pursue relevant certifications, continuing education, and professional development opportunities supported by the department.

Required Education & Experience (Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities)

• Must have high school diploma or GED equivalent
• NC Life Insurance or obtain within 2 months
• Must have good communication skills, both verbal and written.
• Must have good problem‑solving skills, strong attention to detail and organizational skills.
• Must complete the Credit Unions Core Module Program within 12 months of hire date as a condition of employment.

Preferred Education & Experience (Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities)

• Bachelor’s degree in Business, Finance, Tax or Economics.
• 1+ years of experience within financial planning, wealth management, or investment operations.
• Professional experience in an investment‑related or financial advisory support role.
• Familiarity MoneyGuide, NetX360 or Envestnet

Job Environment & Physical Requirements

• Hybrid work environment.
• Must be able to comprehend and carry out job demands.
• Job requires a substantial amount of sitting.
• Use hands and fingers to press keys on a computer keyboard to enter or retrieve information.
• Use hands and fingers to press telephone keypad and lift telephone receiver.
• Must be able to comprehend phone calls.
• Must be able to lift 5 pounds.

SECU provides equal employment opportunity to all qualified persons regardless of race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, genetic information, disability, veteran status, or other classification protected by law.

Disclaimer

State Employees' Credit Union reserves the right to fill this role at a higher/lower level based on business need.