ERISA/Employee Benefits Partner

Job Overview

A prominent law firm is seeking an experienced ERISA/Employee Benefits Partner to join its Employment and Labor Practice. This position offers opportunities to work from any of the firm’s Michigan offices or from Chicago, IL. This role involves leading and advising on complex employee benefits and executive compensation matters, with a focus on compliance with ERISA and related regulations. Ideal candidates will have a robust background in benefits law, particularly in the health and welfare benefits space.

Location

• Lansing, Michigan

Duties

• Design, implement, and administer employee benefit plans and executive compensation programs
• Advise on health and welfare benefits structuring, including self-funded and fully insured health plans, cafeteria plans, and various types of benefit trusts and accounts
• Provide legal guidance on compliance with ERISA, IRC, HIPAA, PPACA, FMLA, and COBRA
• Draft and review plan documents, contracts, and policies to ensure compliance and strategic alignment with client goals
• Collaborate with the Employment and Labor team on client support and benefit plan administration
• Support client relationships and business development (portable book of business is a plus but not required)

Requirements

• Minimum of 8 years of experience in employee benefits and ERISA law
• Expertise in health and welfare benefits plan design and compliance
• Strong skills in legal analysis, contract drafting, and regulatory compliance

Education

• Juris Doctor (JD) from an accredited law school

Certifications

• Licensed Attorney in Michigan or Illinois, or eligible for admission by examination or waiver

Skills

• In-depth knowledge of ERISA and related employee benefits regulations
• Proficiency in drafting, negotiation, and strategic advising on benefits plans
• Strong analytical and communication skills
• Team-oriented with a proactive approach to client service

Benefits

• Competitive Compensation aligned with experience and qualifications
• Health and Wellness: Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• Retirement Plan: 401(k) with employer contributions
• Professional Development: Opportunities for growth within a collaborative law firm
• Flexible Work Options: Choice of Michigan or Chicago office location with hybrid work flexibility

This small firm has attorneys with diverse backgrounds with varying business and practical experiences and personal and professional interests. Their clients are diverse in size and character, for they represent individuals in their personal and business concerns, trusts and estates, publicly traded and multinational companies, and many start-up, small, and medium-sized businesses. The work environment has a closely-knit collegial feeling to it. Attorneys pride themselves on their values because they provide the underpinnings for the way they run their business, the way they treat their clients, and the way they work with each other. They strive to be honest and fair; to treat all as valued members of their team; to mentor others and strive for their successes. Attorneys here are committed to working together and serving their communities through pro bono work.