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 candidate should have at least three to five years of benefits experience in private practice, with expertise in 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 advises on cutting-edge developments impacting national policy. Clients include some of the most recognizable and iconic brands worldwide.

The ideal candidate is detail-oriented, thrives in a team-oriented and collaborative environment, and possesses excellent writing, oral advocacy, communication, and legal analysis skills.

About the Company

Michael Best & Friedrich LLP is a full-service law firm with over 350 lawyers and technical professionals. Since our founding in 1848, we’ve evolved to meet clients’ changing needs while maintaining a commitment to exceptional legal service and business acumen. We serve companies across industries, as well as trade associations, nonprofits, educational institutions, governments, family trusts, and high-net-worth individuals.

Locations

We have offices in the following locations:

• 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
• Washington D.C.

This position is open in any of our offices. Our contemporary office spaces support both concentration and collaboration.

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

• Adaptability: Ability to learn new skills, work under pressure, meet tight deadlines, and balance independent and team-based work
• Collaboration: Ability to develop relationships, foster teamwork, and work effectively with diverse groups
• Communication: Excellent interpersonal, oral, and written communication skills; ability to manage confidential information and sensitive situations with discretion
• Problem-Solving: Ability to identify and analyze issues, make decisions, and develop innovative solutions to complex problems
• Professionalism: Composure, good judgment, and a professional demeanor

Benefits

• Learning and Growth:
  • Challenging and dynamic role
  • Career development planning and mentorship program
  • Professional growth opportunities, performance management, and coaching
  • Specialized training programs
  • Bar exam/bar review course reimbursement
• Health & Wellness:
  • Medical, dental, and vision care
  • Health Savings Accounts and Flexible Spending Accounts
  • Wellness program and Employee/Family Assistance Program
• Total Compensation:
  • Competitive base pay
  • Unlimited PTO plus 10 paid holidays
  • Performance recognition and bonus program eligibility
  • ABA, state, and local bar membership fee reimbursement
• Planning for the Future:
  • 401(k) with company contribution
  • Short-term and long-term disability plans
  • Life insurance and critical illness insurance
  • Parental/family leave
• Culture and Workplace:
  • Collaborative and respectful work environment
  • Flexible remote work policy (up to 2.5 days per week)
  • Contemporary workspaces

Pay

For applicants in California, Colorado, District of Columbia, and Illinois, the annual compensation range for this role is $185,000 to $245,000. Final compensation will depend on experience, skills, and internal equity. Eligibility to participate in the firm’s bonus program is subject to its conditions and restrictions.

Schedule

This is a full-time position. Full-time employees are eligible for all employer-sponsored benefits, including medical, dental, vision, and retirement plans.