About Us...

Life By Design Investment Advisory Services is a boutique RIA wealth advisory firm located in Dana Point, California. We specialize in helping high-net-worth individuals and families navigate retirement transitions, complex estate planning, and implement values-aligned concierge-level service. Our mission is to help clients live intentionally and steward their wealth purposefully across generations. Our practice is built on long-term relationships, high-touch service, and deep coordination with clients’ CPAs and estate attorneys.

The Position

We are seeking a Client Service & Operations Associate to become a key partner to the advisor and the primary driver of client servicing and operational excellence. This role is ideal for a detail-oriented professional who thrives in a high-touch planning environment and is able to take ownership of processes from start to finish. Your technical planning support and relational awareness will directly enhance the client experience. This is a position with growth potential as you wish to progress within the financial industry.

Key Responsibilities

Client Service & Communication

• Serve as a primary point of contact for client service needs
• Manage client requests including account maintenance, money movements, and documentation
• Coordinate and prepare client communications, including follow-ups and service updates
• Build trusted relationships with clients, with a focus on supporting retirees and their families

 Operations & Account Management

• Process account openings, transfers, and maintenance with custodians
• Manage cashiering requests (distributions, contributions, transfers)
• Oversee DocuSign workflows and ensure timely completion of documentation
• Handle monthly/quarterly billing processes and reconciliation
• Work with internal team members to ensure timely execution of client requests

 Advisor Support

• Prepare meeting materials and assist with ongoing client servicing needs
• Support implementation of planning recommendations
• Draft follow-up notes, summaries, and track & follow through on action items following client meetings

 Technology & Systems Management

• Maintain and optimize CRM workflows in SmartRIA 
• Assist with financial planning inputs and updates in RightCapital and Holistiplan
• Ensure data integrity across systems and help improve internal processes

 Coordination with Professional Partners

• Communicate and coordinate with clients’ CPAs and estate planning attorneys
• Assist with trust administration workflows and related documentation

Qualifications

• 3–7+ years of experience in a Registered Investment Advisory firm or similar wealth management environment
• Strong understanding of client service, account operations, and custodial processes
• Experience working with retirees and high-net-worth clients preferred
• Familiarity with financial planning and tax coordination concepts
• High attention to detail and ability to manage multiple workflows simultaneously
• Strong communication skills with a professional and empathetic approach
• CFP® or progress toward CFP® designation preferred

Preferred Software Experience

• RightCapital
• WealthBox
• SmartRIA
• Holistiplan
• XYPN

Compensation & Benefits

• Base Salary: $75,000 – $90,000 (based on experience)
• Bonus: Performance-based bonus (typically 5–10%)
• PTO: 15–20 days paid time off + standard holidays
• Flexibility: Option to be a hybrid or fully remote position
• Retirement Plan: 401(k) with profit sharing
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance
• Covered licensing renewal fees, CFP® or other credential maintenance
• Professional Development: Financial support for continued education and advanced designations to encourage professional development 

How to Apply

We are excited to meet candidates who share our commitment to excellence in financial planning and client service. Submit your resume and a brief cover letter detailing your experience and interest to .

We are looking for someone who wants to grow with a boutique firm and play a meaningful role in the lives of our clients. We look forward to meeting you.