Senior Counsel – Employee Benefits

Senior Counsel – Employee BenefitsOur client, a large Midwestern electric utility, is seeking an experienced Employee Benefits Attorney to join its in-house legal team. This role focuses on providing strategic legal guidance on employee benefit and compensation matters while ensuring compliance with complex federal regulations.The position will be based on-site at the company’s headquarters in Columbus, Ohio and is designed for attorneys with significant experience advising on ERISA and tax-qualified benefit plans. Please note - this company has adopted a 5-days a week in-office attendance policy. Remote or hybrid work is not permitted. Relocation assistance is available.Why work here?A large, stable electric utility with a strong reputation in the energy industryOpportunity to work closely with HR, finance, and executive leadership on strategic benefits initiativesCompetitive compensation and incentives, including short-term and long-term incentive programsComprehensive benefits package including retirement plans and pensionA collaborative in-house legal environment where attorneys can influence company policy and strategyWhat you’ll do:Advise on the design, implementation, and administration of employee benefit programs, including health and welfare plans, retiree benefits, and defined benefit and defined contribution retirement plansProvide legal guidance on incentive compensation programs, including annual and long-term incentive plansEnsure compliance with applicable laws including ERISA, the Internal Revenue Code, HIPAA, COBRA, the Affordable Care Act, and the Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity ActDraft and review plan documents, summary plan descriptions, and related benefits materialsConduct legal research and monitor developments in employee benefits and related tax lawProvide training and guidance to HR and management regarding employee benefits matters and employee inquiriesAssist in resolving disputes and manage litigation involving employee benefit plansCoordinate with outside counsel as neededParticipate in benefits strategy discussions and policy developmentWhat you will need:Juris Doctor (J.D.) from an accredited U.S. law school7+ years of legal experience (more senior candidates with 9+ years encouraged to apply)Strong background in employee benefits law, including ERISA and the Internal Revenue CodeExperience advising on retirement plans, welfare benefit plans, and executive compensation programsExperience in a law firm or corporate legal department, preferably within the energy or utility sectorAbility to collaborate cross-functionally with HR, finance, and executive leadershipBase Salary range is between $155,000 and $237,000, with incentive compensation available as well.If you are interested in learning more, please schedule a time to call using the link below.