ERISA/Employee Benefits Partner

Job Overview

A well-established law firm seeks an ERISA/Employee Benefits Partner to join its Employment and Labor Practice. This position is available in either Michigan or Chicago, IL. The role involves managing employee benefit plan design, implementation, and compliance, with a particular focus on health and welfare benefits and executive compensation. Ideal candidates will bring strong experience in employee benefits law, a client-centered approach, and a commitment to teamwork.

Location

• Ann Arbor, Michigan

Duties

• Lead the design, implementation, and administration of employee benefit plans and executive compensation arrangements
• Provide expertise in health and welfare benefit plans, including self-funded and fully-insured structures, IRC §125 cafeteria plans, VEBAs, and consumer-driven health accounts (FSAs, HRAs, HSAs)
• Advise clients on regulatory compliance with ERISA, IRC, HIPAA, PPACA, FMLA, and COBRA
• Draft, review, and negotiate plan documents, contracts, and policy agreements for benefit programs
• Collaborate with the Employment and Labor team to deliver comprehensive support to clients in benefits structuring and risk management
• Contribute to business development and client retention efforts (a portable book of business is advantageous but not mandatory)

Requirements

• Minimum of 8 years of experience in ERISA and employee benefits law
• Extensive knowledge in health and welfare benefits and regulatory compliance
• Proficient in contract drafting and regulatory analysis

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

• Expertise in ERISA and employee benefits regulations
• Strong analytical, drafting, and negotiation abilities
• Excellent communication and teamwork skills
• Client-focused with a proactive approach to project management

Benefits

• Competitive Compensation aligned with experience and qualifications
• Health and Wellness: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance
• Retirement Plan: 401(k) with employer contributions
• Professional Development: Opportunities for career advancement within a collaborative team
• Flexible Work Arrangements: Hybrid options available in Michigan or Chicago locations

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.