Remote 401(k) Specialist

Annual Salary: $79,905
Location: Remote (U.S.-based)

Job Overview:

We are seeking a highly organized and knowledgeable 401(k) Specialist to join our team on a fully remote basis. This position offers the opportunity to work independently while providing expert guidance on retirement plans. As a 401(k) Specialist, you will be responsible for managing, administrating, and advising clients on 401(k) retirement plans. The ideal candidate will have an in-depth understanding of retirement plan regulations, compliance requirements, and financial markets, and possess excellent communication and client relationship management skills.

This is an ideal role for someone who has experience working with 401(k) plans and wants the flexibility of remote work. You will collaborate with internal teams and clients across the U.S. to provide top-tier services, ensuring clients are fully compliant with all relevant regulations while optimizing their retirement plan strategies.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Plan Administration and Oversight

• Manage the day-to-day operations of 401(k) retirement plans, including ensuring the accurate and timely processing of contributions, loans, and distributions.
• Review and monitor the performance of 401(k) plans to ensure compliance with all relevant laws and regulations such as ERISA, IRS, and Department of Labor requirements.
• Assist in the preparation of annual filings such as IRS Form 5500 and ensure all reports are filed accurately and on time.
• Conduct regular audits of 401(k) plans to identify and address any discrepancies or compliance issues.
• Oversee the enrollment of new employees into 401(k) plans and provide ongoing support to employees with inquiries regarding their plans, distributions, or investments.

2. Client Consultation and Plan Strategy

• Act as the primary point of contact for clients, advising them on the selection and management of 401(k) plans to meet their financial and retirement goals.
• Collaborate with clients to design and implement 401(k) plan offerings that align with their needs, including helping them select the best investment options for their employees.
• Provide recommendations for improving 401(k) plan performance and educate clients on plan amendments, fee structures, and administrative services.
• Conduct regular reviews with clients to assess their plan’s performance, offering insights and strategies to optimize outcomes.

3. Compliance and Regulatory Management

• Stay up-to-date on the latest changes in retirement plan laws and regulations, ensuring that all 401(k) plans under your management adhere to federal and state rules.
• Work closely with compliance teams to ensure that all client 401(k) plans meet the fiduciary requirements and safeguard plan participants' best interests.
• Serve as a subject matter expert on all compliance-related matters, providing clients with timely updates on new legislation or changes that could affect their retirement plans.
• Ensure that all plan documents, amendments, and disclosures are accurate, up to date, and in line with legal requirements.

4. Employee Education and Support

• Conduct educational sessions and webinars for employees to explain the features of their 401(k) plans, including contribution limits, tax advantages, and investment options.
• Offer personalized assistance to employees making decisions about their retirement plan contributions, distributions, or loan options.
• Provide ongoing support for employee inquiries related to 401(k) plans, including helping them navigate online portals, interpret statements, and adjust investment options.

5. Vendor and Partner Management

• Work closely with third-party administrators (TPAs), recordkeepers, and investment advisors to ensure seamless plan administration.
• Evaluate and select vendors for services such as recordkeeping, investments, and plan auditing.
• Negotiate service agreements and ensure all partners are delivering services under agreed-upon terms.

Skills and Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s Degree in Finance, Business, Human Resources, or a related field.
• Minimum of 3-5 years of experience in 401(k) plan administration or retirement services.
• In-depth knowledge of ERISA, IRS, and DOL regulations related to 401(k) plans.
• Experience with Form 5500 preparation and annual plan audits.
• Strong analytical skills and attention to detail.
• Exceptional communication and customer service skills.
• Ability to work independently in a remote setting, managing multiple clients and projects simultaneously.
• Proficiency in using 401(k) administration software and platforms.
• Industry certifications such as Certified Retirement Services Professional (CRSP) or Qualified 401(k) Administrator (QKA) are preferred but not required.

Why Join Us:

This is a fully remote position that offers the flexibility to work from anywhere in the U.S. As a 401(k) Specialist, you will have the opportunity to take ownership of your work and directly contribute to helping clients and their employees secure their financial futures. You will join a collaborative, knowledgeable, and supportive team that values work-life balance and professional development.

We offer a competitive salary of $79,905, a robust benefits package, and a chance to advance your career in the retirement services industry.

How to Apply:

If you are passionate about helping others plan for retirement and have a solid background in 401(k) plan management, we encourage you to apply for this exciting remote opportunity.