Final answer:
Associate brokers must work under a sponsoring broker, gaining experience while utilizing the resources and complying with regulations that require supervision by a responsible broker.
Step-by-step explanation:
If an individual works as an associate broker, they must work under a sponsoring broker. Associate brokers are licensed to perform the same duties as a broker, but they choose to work under another broker's supervision rather than opening their own office. This arrangement allows associate brokers to gain more experience, utilize the resources of a sponsoring broker's office, and comply with real estate regulations that typically require sales agents and associate brokers to be supervised by a responsible broker.
An associate broker does not work under a real estate salesperson or another associate licensee. Further, it's inaccurate to say an associate broker does not work under anyone, as their position inherently involves working under the license and guidance of a sponsoring broker who holds the ultimate responsibility for the brokerage's transactions.