ERISA/Employee Benefits Partner

Job Overview

A distinguished law firm is seeking an experienced ERISA/Employee Benefits Partner to join its Employment and Labor Practice, with opportunities to work in Michigan or Chicago, Illinois. This role involves strategic oversight of employee benefits, executive compensation, and compliance with federal regulations related to ERISA, HIPAA, COBRA, and other intersecting areas. Ideal candidates will bring extensive knowledge in employee benefits design and administration, especially in health and welfare benefits.

Location

• Kalamazoo, Michigan

Duties

• Design, implement, and manage employee benefit plans and executive compensation arrangements
• Advise on structuring and compliance of health and welfare benefits, including self-funded and fully insured plans, IRC §125 cafeteria plans, IRC §501(c)(9) VEBAs, and consumer-driven plans such as FSAs, HRAs, and HSAs
• Provide guidance on regulatory compliance with ERISA, IRC, HIPAA, PPACA, FMLA, and COBRA
• Draft, review, and negotiate plan documents, policies, and contracts related to employee benefits
• Collaborate with the Employment and Labor team to provide holistic legal support to clients in benefits administration and risk management
• Support business development and client retention efforts (portable book of business is advantageous but not required)

Requirements

• Minimum of 8 years of experience in ERISA and employee benefits law, with a focus on benefits design and compliance
• Proven ability to navigate and apply laws and regulations related to employee benefits and executive compensation
• Strong skills in contract drafting, analysis, and problem-solving

Education

• Juris Doctor (JD) from an accredited law school

Certifications

• Licensed Attorney in good standing in Michigan or eligible for admission by examination or waiver

Skills

• Comprehensive knowledge of ERISA, HIPAA, COBRA, and related regulations
• Strong analytical and drafting abilities
• Excellent communication skills for client advising and team collaboration
• Self-motivated with a proactive approach to client service and business development

Benefits

• Competitive Compensation: Commensurate with experience and qualifications
• Health and Wellness: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance
• Retirement and Savings: 401(k) with employer contributions
• Professional Growth: Opportunities for advancement and collaboration within a reputable firm
• Flexible Work Arrangements: Choice of Michigan or Chicago office with hybrid options

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.