Employee Benefits Partner

Job Title:
Employee Benefits Partner

Job Overview:
A distinguished law firm based in Rochester, NY, seeks a senior-level attorney with deep expertise in employee benefits law. This opportunity is ideal for a legal professional with a strong command of retirement, welfare, and executive compensation plans, looking to expand a practice in a collaborative and strategically focused environment. The ideal candidate will contribute to both client service and firm growth through legal acumen and business development efforts.

Duties:

• Advise clients on designing, implementing, and administering various retirement, welfare, and executive compensation plans

• Draft and revise plan documents, summary plan descriptions, and commercial agreements tied to benefits and compensation matters

• Provide legal support for transactions, including mergers and acquisitions, with a focus on due diligence and drafting purchase agreements

• Handle matters involving ERISA, the Internal Revenue Code, and securities regulations related to compensation

• Review and prepare administrative service agreements and related documents

• Offer guidance on compliance issues associated with equity compensation, IRC 409A, and 280G, and executive arrangements

• Collaborate across legal teams for integrated service delivery

• Engage in strategic initiatives to expand the client base and grow the practice

Requirements:

• Minimum 10 years of legal experience in employee benefits law

• Demonstrated ability to manage complex benefit-related matters independently

• Prior exposure to transactional due diligence in M&A settings

Education:

• Juris Doctor (J.D.) from an accredited institution

• Strong academic standing

Certifications:

• Admission to the New York State Bar (or eligibility for admission)

Skills:

• In-depth understanding of ERISA, IRC, and executive compensation regulations

• Strong drafting and negotiation skills for commercial and benefits-related agreements

• Ability to analyze legal issues and present concise, client-friendly guidance

• Excellent interpersonal and communication abilities

• Capability to maintain and expand a client portfolio

Job Location:

• Rochester, NY

Benefits:

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance coverage

• Long-term disability and life insurance

• 401(k) plan with firm contributions

• Defined pension plan

• Paid Time Off (PTO) and holiday leave

• Flexible spending accounts

• Opportunities for career development and internal collaboration