ERISA Attorney

A law firm in Houston seeks a dedicated ERISA Attorney with expertise in employee benefits and retirement plans. The ideal candidate will possess extensive knowledge of ERISA and Tax Code regulations, focusing on pension, retirement, and welfare benefit plans. Experience advising on fiduciary compliance and representing clients in IRS and DOL audits is highly valued.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Provide legal counsel on ERISA compliance matters and employee benefit plans to diverse clients.
• Draft, review, and amend plan documents for qualified and non-qualified retirement plans, including 401(k), 403(b), and 457(b) plans.
• Advise on arrangements governed by 409A, 457(f), and top-hat plans to ensure regulatory compliance.
• Guide clients on group health plans compliance under ACA, COBRA, HIPAA, HITECH, and GINA.
• Assist with welfare benefit plans such as cafeteria plans, wellness programs, health FSAs, HSAs, and life insurance plans.
• Represent plan sponsors in IRS and DOL correction programs and governmental audits.
• Stay abreast of legal developments and industry trends impacting ERISA and employee benefits.

Requirements:

• Juris Doctor (JD) degree from an accredited law school.
• Admission to the State Bar of Texas or eligibility for admission by motion.
• 5+ years of experience in ERISA law, preferably in a law firm setting.
• In-depth understanding of ERISA, Tax Code laws, and federal regulations governing employee benefits.
• Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret complex legal documents and regulations.
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, to interact effectively with clients and regulatory authorities.

Preferred Certifications:

• Certification in Employee Benefits Law (CEBS) or Certified Pension Consultant (CPC) designation is advantageous.

Benefits:

• Competitive salary commensurate with experience.
• Comprehensive benefits package including health, dental, vision, and life insurance.
• Paid training and professional development opportunities.
• Parking provided.
• 401(k) plan with profit sharing.
• Generous paid leave and holiday schedule.

This mid-sized Texas firm handles a wide variety of transactional and litigation matters, and it has a long history of providing its clients with quality legal representation. It represents some of the largest corporations in Texas, and it is well connected in the state's politics. The firm limits its associate hiring, so all associates have the opportunity to make parner and are not forced to compete with each other.