Remote Retirement Benefits Manager
Annual Salary: $152,812
Location: Remote
Position Type: Full-time
Job Summary
The Remote Retirement Benefits Manager oversees the company's design, implementation, and management of retirement benefits programs. This includes administering 401(k), pension plans, and other retirement-related benefits. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in retirement plan management, employee benefits administration, compliance with federal and state regulations, and excellent leadership skills. The individual will serve as a strategic partner, working closely with HR, Finance, and legal teams to ensure that the company's retirement benefit offerings are competitive, compliant, and aligned with the organization’s overall business objectives.
This is a fully remote position, offering a competitive salary of $152,812 annually, with an opportunity to manage a high-impact program that directly affects the financial well-being of the workforce.
Key Responsibilities
- Retirement Plan Management
- Oversee the day-to-day administration of all retirement benefit plans, including 401(k), pension, and supplemental retirement programs.
- Ensure the company’s retirement benefits comply with ERISA, IRS, and DOL regulations.
- Partner with external vendors and third-party administrators to ensure seamless delivery of retirement plan services.
- Lead the annual retirement plan audit process, working closely with auditors to ensure accuracy and compliance.
- Strategy and Design
- Lead the strategy and design of retirement plans to ensure they are competitive in the market and meet the employee population's needs.
- Analyze market trends and benchmark company plans against industry standards to ensure competitiveness and cost-effectiveness.
- Collaborate with internal stakeholders to assess employees' current and future retirement needs and recommend plan design changes.
- Communicate complex benefits concepts to senior leadership to approve program updates and changes.
- Compliance and Regulatory Oversight
- Stay current on federal and state regulations regarding retirement benefits, including ERISA, IRS regulations, and the Affordable Care Act (ACA).
- Ensure that all retirement programs comply with relevant laws and regulations.
- Manage all filings and reports required by law, including Form 5500 and nondiscrimination testing.
- Collaborate with legal counsel to ensure that plan documents are up-to-date and compliant.
- Vendor Management
- Select and manage relationships with external vendors and third-party administrators responsible for plan administration.
- Conduct periodic vendor reviews to assess service levels, costs, and plan performance.
- Negotiate contracts and service agreements with vendors to ensure optimal service and cost efficiency.
- Employee Education and Communication
- Develop and implement communication strategies to educate employees about their retirement benefits.
- Design and deliver workshops, webinars, and materials to help employees understand and maximize their retirement benefits.
- Serve as a point of contact for employee inquiries regarding retirement plans and assist employees in navigating their options.
- Conduct periodic surveys and feedback sessions to assess employee satisfaction with the retirement plans.
- Data Analytics and Reporting
- Monitor retirement plan participation and contribution rates to identify trends and areas for improvement.
- Provide regular reports to leadership on plan performance, participation rates, and other key metrics.
- Use data-driven insights to make recommendations on plan improvements and adjustments.
- Financial Oversight
- Oversee the financial administration of the company’s retirement plans, ensuring that contributions, investments, and distributions are handled appropriately.
- Work closely with the finance department to ensure that retirement plan costs are accounted for and aligned with the company’s budget.
- Conduct periodic cost analysis to ensure that the company’s retirement programs are sustainable and provide value to both the company and its employees.
Required Qualifications
- Education:
- Bachelor's degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, Finance, or a related field.
- CEBS (Certified Employee Benefits Specialist), QKA (Qualified 401(k) Administrator), or similar certification is preferred but not required.
- Experience:
- At least 5 years of experience managing retirement benefits plans, including 401(k) and pension programs.
- Strong understanding of ERISA, DOL, and IRS regulations governing retirement plans.
- Experience working with third-party administrators, auditors, and vendors.
- Proven track record of managing multiple retirement benefit plans in a mid to large-sized company.
- Experience with plan design, compliance, and regulatory filings.
- Skills:
- Strong project management skills with the ability to manage multiple tasks and deadlines.
- Exceptional analytical and problem-solving skills with a keen attention to detail.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to explain complex concepts clearly and concisely.
- Ability to work independently in a remote environment while maintaining strong relationships with internal and external stakeholders.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, particularly Excel, and experience with benefits administration software.
Key Competencies
- Leadership: Demonstrated ability to lead cross-functional teams and drive results in a collaborative environment.
- Analytical Thinking: Capable of analyzing complex data sets and making strategic recommendations.
- Communication: Strong ability to communicate with stakeholders at all levels, from employees to senior leadership.
- Adaptability: Ability to stay current with changing regulations and adapt strategies accordingly.
- Customer Focus: Dedicated to delivering an exceptional employee experience by managing the retirement benefits programs.
Benefits
- Competitive salary of $152,812 per year.
- A fully remote work environment with flexible hours.
- Comprehensive health and wellness benefits, including medical, dental, and vision coverage.
- Paid time off, including vacation, sick days, and holidays.
- Access to professional development and certification programs.
