Benefits Compliance Associate Director - Remote

UnitedHealth Group is a health care and well-being company dedicated to improving the health outcomes of millions around the world. We are comprised of two distinct and complementary businesses, UnitedHealthcare and Optum, working to build a better health system for all. Here, your contributions matter as they will help transform health care for years to come.

About the role

The Benefits Compliance Associate Director is responsible for leading regulatory compliance oversight for UnitedHealth Group's qualified and nonqualified retirement plans ("Plans"). This role ensures adherence to ERISA, IRS/DOL requirements, and other applicable laws while advancing solid governance, risk management, and operational excellence practices. The position operates at a strategic and advisory level, translating complex regulatory requirements into actionable guidance, influencing plan design and administration, and ensuring effective execution of compliance activities through team leadership and cross-functional collaboration. You'll enjoy the flexibility to work remotely from anywhere within the U.S. For all hires in the Minneapolis or Washington, D.C. area, you will be required to work in the office a minimum of four days per week.

Responsibilities

• Regulatory Compliance & Risk Management
  • Serve as the senior subject matter expert and primary point of contact for retirement plan compliance matters
  • Interpret and apply complex laws and regulations including ERISA, IRS, and DOL guidance
  • Identify, assess, and mitigate compliance risks; escalate issues appropriately
  • Ensure alignment with enterprise compliance frameworks and internal controls
• Strategic Advisory & Plan Governance
  • Provide strategic consultation on plan design changes, including 401(k) and 409A plans
  • Partner with Legal to interpret and apply regulatory requirements
  • Influence governance practices supporting compliant and scalable plan administration
• Plan Documentation & Disclosure
  • Oversee the accuracy and timeliness of plan documents and amendments
  • Lead development and review of SPDs, SMMs, and required disclosures
  • Ensure documentation aligns with regulatory standards and plan provisions
• Filings, Testing & Operational Oversight
  • Accountable for Form 5500, Form 5330, and required notices executed by the team
  • Oversee non-discrimination testing activities
  • Ensure compliant, controlled, and scalable operational processes
• Cross-Functional Leadership & Communication
  • Act as liaison between Retirement and Legal teams
  • Review and guide plan-related communications for accuracy and compliance
  • Support enterprise initiatives impacting retirement plan compliance

Requirements

• 8+ years of retirement plan compliance or benefits experience
• Experience with Form 5500, nondiscrimination testing, and plan documentation
• Deep knowledge of ERISA, IRS/DOL requirements, and plan regulations
• Demonstrated analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in a large, regulated organization
• Leadership or project management experience
• Demonstrated communication and stakeholder management skills

Skills

• Compliance & Ethics Leadership
• Strategic Thinking
• Execution & Accountability
• Collaboration & Influence
• Talent Development

Benefits

In addition to your salary, we offer a comprehensive benefits package, incentive and recognition programs, equity stock purchase, and 401k contribution (all benefits are subject to eligibility requirements).

Pay

The salary for this role will range from $112,700 - $193,200 annually based on full-time employment. Pay is based on several factors including but not limited to local labor markets, education, work experience, and certifications. We comply with all minimum wage laws as applicable.