ERISA/Employee Benefits Partner

Job Overview

A respected law firm seeks an experienced ERISA/Employee Benefits Partner Attorney to join its Employment and Labor Practice. This position, available in Michigan or Chicago, IL, involves overseeing the design, implementation, and administration of employee benefit plans and executive compensation. Ideal candidates will have deep expertise in employee benefits law and a proven ability to handle complex regulatory requirements in health and welfare benefits.

Location

• Detroit, Michigan

Duties

• Lead the design, implementation, and management of employee benefit plans and executive compensation programs
• Advise on structuring and compliance for health and welfare benefits, including self-funded and fully insured plans, IRC §125 cafeteria plans, VEBAs, and consumer-driven health accounts (FSAs, HRAs, HSAs)
• Provide legal guidance on regulatory compliance with ERISA, IRC, HIPAA, PPACA, FMLA, and COBRA
• Draft, review, and negotiate documents, policies, and agreements related to employee benefits plans
• Collaborate with Employment and Labor team members to offer integrated support to clients in benefits planning and risk management
• Contribute to business development and client relationship-building (a portable book of business is beneficial but not required)

Requirements

• Minimum of 8 years of experience in ERISA and employee benefits law
• Strong background in health and welfare benefits structuring and compliance
• Proficiency in drafting, negotiation, and regulatory analysis

Education

• Juris Doctor (JD) from an accredited law school

Certifications

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

Skills

• Expertise in ERISA, IRC, and employee benefits regulations
• Excellent analytical, drafting, and negotiation skills
• Strong communication and client service skills
• Team-oriented with a collaborative 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 matching contributions
• Professional Development: Opportunities for career advancement within a collaborative and supportive team
• Flexible Work Arrangements: Hybrid work options in Michigan or Chicago locations

One of the largest and oldest firms in Michigan, this highly respected powerhouse has serviced its clients for over 100 years and has offices throughout Michigan, on the east and south coasts and in Europe. This firm provides general legal services in the traditional practice areas including banking, business, litigation, labor and employment, IP and e-commerce, employee benefits, trusts and estates and tax. It also has several specialty areas including financial institutions, health care, immigration, insurance, real estate, and telecommunications. Interestingly enough, as old as this firm is, it has really tapped into a successful approach to providing legal services to its varied clients. It hires professionals from a wide variety of backgrounds with different skill sets. Many of the attorneys at this firm have accounting, engineering, political, economics, mathematics, tax, and business management backgrounds. The firm has also been known to hire former in-house counsel. This diversity helps the firm service its broad range of clients, which include individuals, small, medium and large businesses, publicly traded companies, trusts, and hospitals. This firm hires laterals but does so for specific needs. It seeks team players who have a variety of skills, fit within the firm's current practice area framework and who add some additional value to the firm. If you fit this bill, you'll thrive at this firm.