Research Associate, Defined Contribution

As a Research Associate, Defined Contribution at Marquette Associates, you're responsible for conducting comprehensive research on defined contribution service providers, such as recordkeepers, custodians, and investment managers. Moreover, you’ll collaborate with our Research team to support ongoing efforts in areas like retirement income and target date funds. Your duties will also include crafting educational materials on vital financial topics to help our clients make informed decisions.

The ideal candidate for the Research Associate, Defined Contribution role at Marquette Associates should hold a Bachelor's degree alongside 4 to 6 years of investment management experience with a specific focus on defined contribution plans. Additionally, you should have a solid understanding of recordkeeping services and exhibit strong organizational and communication skills. Familiarity with defined contribution plans such as 401(k)s is a plus.

At Marquette Associates, we believe in empowering our team members! As a Research Associate, Defined Contribution, you'll have access to our tuition and education reimbursement programs, ensuring you have opportunities for growth. Additionally, you will engage in team discussions, contribute to published papers, and attend industry events, which greatly enhance your professional knowledge and network.

The work environment at Marquette Associates for the Research Associate, Defined Contribution role is dynamic and collaborative. You will be part of a team that values creativity and critical thinking, working together to support our clients' needs. Marquette promotes a hybrid work policy that allows for a blend of remote and in-office coordination, fostering a balanced work-life environment.

The Research Associate, Defined Contribution position at Marquette Associates offers a competitive salary ranging from $65,000 to $80,000 annually, dependent on experience and qualifications. In addition to the salary, you’ll receive a top-tier healthcare plan with 100% paid premiums for disability and life insurance, health spending account options, a 401(k) contribution, and paid time off, alongside numerous opportunities for professional development.

When answering this question, detail your professional background, highlighting any roles focused specifically on defined contribution plans. Discuss specific projects you've completed, what you learned, and how that experience has prepared you to contribute effectively as a Research Associate, Defined Contribution at Marquette Associates.

To effectively answer this question, describe your methodology when conducting research. Discuss your ability to gather data, analyze it critically, and synthesize findings, which will aid in informed decision-making for clients at Marquette Associates. Always tie your response back to how your approach benefits the firm and its clients.

Here, share a specific project where your analytical abilities were key to the success of the outcome. Explain the problem you faced, the analysis you conducted, and the results of your findings. This demonstrates your competency as a potential Research Associate, Defined Contribution.

In your response, showcase your knowledge of recent trends such as changes in fiduciary regulations, digital tools enhancing retirement planning, and evolving investment strategies. Mention any specific examples or articles you’ve read that highlight these trends to demonstrate your awareness and proactive learning in the field.

This question seeks insight into your organizational skills. Discuss how you assess urgency, importance, and deadlines, as well as any tools or strategies you use to manage your workflow efficiently. Illustrate this with an example from past experience.

Communication is pivotal in any research role. When answering, describe how you ensure that your findings are communicated clearly and effectively to both internal teams and clients. Mention your experience in writing educational materials and how it contributes to client engagement and understanding.

Answer by emphasizing your openness to constructive feedback. Share a situation where you received criticism and how it helped you improve your research process or analysis. This proves you're committed to personal and professional growth, aligning well with Marquette Associates’ values.

Articulate your passion for investment consulting and defined contribution plans. Mention why Marquette resonates with you specifically, such as their commitment to client service or innovative approaches. Your genuine enthusiasm can set you apart from other candidates.

Illuminating your collaborative nature will be crucial here. Share a story about a team project where you played a significant role, highlighting the goal, your contributions, and the outcome. It will showcase your ability to work within Marquette's ethos of teamwork and client-first mentality.

When responding, detail your understanding of fiduciary duties, such as acting in the best interest of clients and adhering to compliance standards. Provide examples of how this understanding influences your research and analysis as you prepare for client consultations in the Research Associate role.