ERISA Attorney (CQ)
Strongpoint Partners · Chicago, IL · 6 days ago
RemoteRemoteLegalFull-time
About the role
This role plays a critical role in ensuring the accuracy, compliance, and integrity of retirement plan documents and participant communications.
Responsibilities
- Plan Document Management
- Draft and review retirement plan documents, including 401(k), profit-sharing, ESOP, 403(b), and non-governmental 403(b) plans
- Prepare plan restatements, amendments, board resolutions, and adoption agreement updates
- Maintain and update summary plan descriptions (SPDs) and related addenda
- Ensure documents comply with ERISA, IRS qualification requirements, and evolving regulatory guidance
- Support plan mergers and terminations, including preparation of required documentation
- Prepare administrative committee charters and fiduciary acceptance letters
- Support for Senior Consultants & Plan Administrators
- Interpret plan documents to ensure accurate operational application
- Prepare executive summaries of plan provisions to support client discussions and plan design decisions
- Stay current on legislative and regulatory changes impacting retirement plans and advise internal teams accordingly
- Research complex technical questions and provide clear, actionable insights
- Identify and evaluate operational and document errors; recommend correction methods and prepare required filings (e.g., EPCRS)
- Draft correspondence summarizing findings, documents, and recommendations
- Serve as a subject matter expert on plan language and participant disclosures
- Track and manage document-related compliance deadlines to ensure timely completion
- Review documents and communications to ensure consistency across all materials
- Prepare administrative forms and supporting documentation as needed
- Employee & Participant Communications
- Draft and review participant-facing materials, including SPDs, SMMs, Plan Highlights, FAQs, and required notices
- Ensure all communications meet ERISA disclosure requirements and are clear, accurate, and easy to understand
- Advises on timing, delivery, and content of required participant notices (e.g., safe harbor, QDIA, automatic enrollment, blackout notices)
- Ensure alignment between plan documents and participant communications
Qualifications
- 10+ years of experience in retirement plan administration, consulting, or a related field (TPA, recordkeeper, CPA firm, law firm, or financial services organization)
- Deep experience drafting and reviewing retirement plan documents, including pre-approved and individually designed plans
- Strong knowledge of ERISA, the Internal Revenue Code, Treasury regulations, IRS guidance, and DOL requirements
- Excellent writing, editing, and communication skills
- Highly detail-oriented with strong analytical and organizational abilities
- Proven research skills with the ability to interpret and apply complex regulations
- Ability to work independently, identify key issues, and drive solutions with minimal direction
- Strong project management skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities
- Familiarity with document automation tools is a plus
Skills
- Strong legal and compliance background
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills
- Detail-oriented with strong analytical and organizational skills
- Ability to work independently and manage multiple tasks
Benefits
- Flexible Workplace – Hybrid and remote options available for many roles.
- Flexible PTO – Competitive paid time off, including flexible & unlimited options.
- Inclusive Environment – A culture that values diversity, collaboration, and respect.
- Growth Opportunities – Support for ongoing learning and career development.
- Comprehensive Benefits – Health, dental, vision, life, and disability coverage.
- Workplace Perks – Incentive bonus programs, flexible hours, & more.