Benefits Associate

Michael Best & Friedrich LLP is seeking a Mid-level Associate Attorney to join our Employee Benefits and Executive Compensation group in any of our offices. The ideal candidate has three to five years of benefits experience in private practice, with a focus on qualified retirement plans, health & welfare plans, and executive & deferred compensation arrangements. Supporting benefits and compensation in M&A, ERISA litigation, and withdrawal liability experience is a plus.

About the Role

Our Employee Benefits and Executive Compensation group is regarded as one of the most sophisticated, full-service benefits practices, serving clients nationally and globally. The team handles the complete spectrum of benefit and compensation issues and has advised on cutting-edge benefits developments that have impacted national policy. Clients include some of the most recognizable and iconic brands in the world.

The associate will work in a team-oriented, collaborative environment and must be detail-oriented with excellent writing, oral advocacy, communication, and legal analysis skills.

Responsibilities

• Advising on qualified retirement plans, health & welfare plans, and executive & deferred compensation arrangements
• Supporting benefits and compensation matters in M&A transactions
• Handling ERISA litigation and withdrawal liability issues
• Collaborating with a team of attorneys and professionals in a dynamic, client-focused environment

Requirements

• J.D. from an ABA-accredited law school with excellent academic credentials
• Three to five years of employment benefits experience in private practice
• Valid authorization to work in the U.S.

Skills

• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to work effectively with diverse internal and external stakeholders
• Excellent oral and written advocacy skills
• Ability to manage confidential information and sensitive situations with discretion
• Strong problem-solving skills, including the ability to analyze issues, make decisions, and develop innovative solutions
• Adaptability to learn new skills, work under pressure, and meet tight deadlines
• Ability to work independently as well as collaboratively in a team environment
• Professionalism and good judgment in maintaining composure in challenging situations

Location

This position is open in any of our offices: Wisconsin (Green Bay, Milwaukee, Madison, Waukesha), Illinois (Chicago), Utah (Salt Lake City), Colorado (Denver, Broomfield), Texas (Austin), North Carolina (Charlotte, Raleigh, Wilmington), California (Los Angeles), Nebraska (Lincoln), and Washington D.C. Our contemporary office spaces support both concentration and collaboration.

Benefits

• Competitive base pay and performance-based bonus program
• Unlimited PTO plus 10 paid holidays
• Comprehensive health benefits: medical, dental, vision, health savings accounts, and flexible spending accounts
• Wellness program and employee/family assistance program
• 401(k) with company contribution
• Disability, life, and critical illness insurance
• Parental/family leave
• ABA, state, and local bar membership fee reimbursement
• Bar exam/bar review course reimbursement
• Mentorship program and specialized training opportunities
• Career development planning and performance management
• Flexible remote work policy (up to 2.5 days per week)

Pay

For applicants in California, Colorado, District of Columbia, and Illinois, the annual compensation range is $185,000 to $245,000. Final compensation will depend on experience, skills, and internal equity.