Senior Counsel – Employee Benefits

Our 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 industry
• Opportunity to work closely with HR, finance, and executive leadership on strategic benefits initiatives
• Competitive compensation and incentives, including short-term and long-term incentive programs
• Comprehensive benefits package including retirement plans and pension
• A collaborative in-house legal environment where attorneys can influence company policy and strategy

What 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 plans
• Provide legal guidance on incentive compensation programs, including annual and long-term incentive plans
• Ensure compliance with applicable laws including ERISA, the Internal Revenue Code, HIPAA, COBRA, the Affordable Care Act, and the Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act
• Draft and review plan documents, summary plan descriptions, and related benefits materials
• Conduct legal research and monitor developments in employee benefits and related tax law
• Provide training and guidance to HR and management regarding employee benefits matters and employee inquiries
• Assist in resolving disputes and manage litigation involving employee benefit plans
• Coordinate with outside counsel as needed
• Participate in benefits strategy discussions and policy development

What you will need:

• Juris Doctor (J.D.) from an accredited U.S. law school
• 7+ 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 Code
• Experience advising on retirement plans, welfare benefit plans, and executive compensation programs
• Experience in a law firm or corporate legal department, preferably within the energy or utility sector
• Ability to collaborate cross-functionally with HR, finance, and executive leadership

Base 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.

https://calendly.com/jcoffey-variant/30min