Experience and Skills
Program Overview
Years 1 and 2 - D.A. Davidson Corporate Office (Seattle, WA)
As an Apprentice Financial Advisor, you will spend the first two years learning the core competencies of wealth management, with a focus on financial planning techniques, client service skills, and technology. You will be provided materials and everything you need to study, sit for, and pass the FINRA SIE, Series 7 and 66 licensing exams, as well as the Washington State insurance exam. Upon completion of the required licensing exams, you may begin studying for an additional professional credential. You will have the choice between the CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ and the Certified Wealth Strategist® credentials.
Year 1 - Seattle
Learn wealth planning techniques and strategies, delve into the complexities of financial and estate planning, and become a specialist on the firm’s financial planning software, MoneyGuidePro®. You will serve as a subject matter expert to Financial Advisors throughout the firm as a vital member of the Planning Resource Center, and more broadly, the Wealth Planning Department. During this time, you will also have the opportunity to work with Sr.
Planners and contribute to in-person training sessions at various branches throughout the system. You will be
responsible for creating Davidson-branded collateral on complex financial planning topics, as well as participate in discovery and plan creation alongside the Wealth Planning Group and Davidson Private Wealth.
Year 2 - Seattle
Serve as a key and valuable member of the Financial Services Representative (FSR) Team, honing your skills by directly advising and guiding clients through investment strategies and proposals, and identifying opportunities to help clients achieve their financial goals.
*During this year you will visit and observe multiple branch locations. This will provide the opportunity to learn and experience the Wealth Management business through different perspectives, and to continue to familiarize yourself and interconnect with our firm’s top producers.
*Participate in intensive training programs in Great Falls, MT, and Seattle with other Trainee Financial Advisors and Apprentices to learn the skills and techniques required for meaningful client interaction, portfolio construction, investment implementation, and practice management.
Throughout your time as a member of our Apprentice team, you will engage with Senior Financial Advisors around the firm to learn about the various aspects and nuances of managing a practice as a Financial Advisor. In your second year, you also will begin discussions with leaders in the firm to determine where you might start a practice on your own or fit into a growing practice.
Year 3 - D.A. Davidson Branch Office Experience (various locations)
The third year of the Apprentice Program is very hands-on and provides practical opportunities to complement your experience in Seattle. During year 3 you will move to an existing D.A. Davidson branch. The chosen branch location is based on many factors including your preference, opportunities and management discretion. The year in the branch will provide the opportunity to learn and experience the Wealth Management business through an on-site branch experience serving in a variety of roles and responsibilities.
Program Completion
At the end of the Program you will have the opportunity to begin your career as a financial advisor or look to continue your career with us in another rewarding capacity that suits your skills and desires.
Completion of the Apprentice Program does not guarantee a permanent role at D.A. Davidson.
The potential base pay for this role is $70,000 annually. The compensation offered will be determined on a case-by-case basis considering a variety of factors including, but not limited to, the skills, relevant work experience, and geographic location of each specific candidate.
The Apprentice interview process is as follows:
September 16 - November 1, 2024 - Applications accepted
November 2024 - First and second round interviews
December 06, 2024 - Final Panel Interview in Seattle, WA
Final Decisions and Offers by Year End
Monday, July 7, 2025 - Apprentice Program begins in Seattle
Next Steps: To apply, visit the Open Positions section of our Careers page. The Apprentice Program application deadline is November 1, 2024
For more information, contact Julie Schneider, Vice President - Director of New FA Development and Acquisition, at (360) 571-3721 or jschneider@dadco.com.