What are the responsibilities and job description for the Financial Planning Analyst/Financial Planning Associate position at Northwestern Mutual - Greater Chicago?
Job Opportunity: Financial Planning Analyst/Financial Planning Associate – Finance Team Member
Location: Vernon Hills, IL
Job Type: Full-Time
Industry: Finance
Salary: Competitive, based on experience
Company Description
Northwestern Mutual is a client-centric finance firm specializing in providing full-spectrum financial strategies to individuals, families, and small institutions. Our team of professionals is dedicated to offering comprehensive services, including investment management, financial planning, risk management, and more. We are committed to upholding the highest fiduciary standards, ensuring that our clients’ best interests are always at the forefront.
In 2026, Northwestern Mutual was again named one of the World's Most Admired Companies® in its industry according to Fortune's annual survey. Additionally, the Fortune 500® ranking is among the most recognized measures of financial success. Being #109 in 2026 affirms that Northwestern Mutual is among America's premier companies.
Role Description
This is a full-time on-site role for a Financial Planning Analyst with Kevin Londos Team, Northwestern Mutual in Vernon Hills, IL.
We are seeking an experienced and detail-oriented financial planning professional with at least three years of industry experience who is either a CFP® professional or actively pursuing the CFP® designation. This role is designed for individuals who enjoy the technical aspects of wealth management and financial planning and prefer a non-sales, non-client acquisition career path.
The Financial Planning Analyst will provide analytical and planning support to the advisory team through retirement analyses, investment proposals, insurance illustrations, portfolio reviews, and case preparation. This individual will play a key role in helping deliver comprehensive wealth management solutions while working primarily behind the scenes.
The responsibilities of this position include, but are not limited to, the following:
Responsibilities
- Prepare and maintain comprehensive financial plans.
- Conduct retirement income and cash flow analyses.
- Analyze investment statements, account holdings, and portfolio allocations.
- Develop investment proposals and portfolio recommendations.
- Prepare meeting materials and case analyses for advisors and client review meetings.
- Run life insurance, disability insurance, and investment illustrations.
- Support planning recommendations involving retirement accounts, including IRAs, Roth IRAs, 401(k)s, and qualified plans.
- Organize and summarize client financial data and documentation.
- Research planning strategies and assist with implementation.
- Collaborate with advisors and operations personnel to ensure a high-quality client experience.
- Maintain accurate and organized planning files and records.
- Stay current on industry developments, tax laws, retirement planning, and investment concepts.
Qualifications
- Minimum 3 years of experience in wealth management, financial planning, or financial services
- Bachelor’s degree in finance, Economics, Accounting, or related field required.
- SIE, Series 6 & 63, Series 7 – required
- Certified Financial Planner (CFP) designation preferred or active CFP candidate
- Strong understanding of investments, portfolio construction, and retirement planning.
- Exceptional analytical, organizational, communication and time-management skills.
- Self-motivated individual with a team-orientated focus.
- Expertise in Microsoft Office and related financial software systems.
Compensation
- Salary range: $65,000–$85,000 annually, depending on experience, credentials, and qualifications.
- Performance-based bonus opportunities may be available.
- Opportunities for continuing education and professional development.
Ideal Candidate
The ideal candidate enjoys the technical and analytical side of wealth management, is highly organized, and is passionate about delivering exceptional planning support. This position is intended for professionals seeking a long-term, specialized career path focused on financial planning and portfolio analysis rather than business development or lead advisory responsibilities.
Salary : $65,000 - $85,000