Manager, 401(k) and Pension Plans

About the position

The Benefits Administrator position at the Pacific Maritime Association (PMA) is responsible for the internal administration of the ILWU-PMA Savings (401(k)) Plan and ensuring compliance with plan provisions and legal requirements. This role involves collaboration with the Senior Benefits Counsel and the 401(k)-service provider team, focusing 60% on retirement administration and 40% on health and welfare. The position requires experience in retirement plan administration for large union plans and involves high-level administration of a large Taft Hartley plan.

Responsibilities

• Manage daily volumes of 401(k) Plan transaction administration and serve as primary point of contact for service provider coordination.
• Oversee 3rd party record keeper transactions for plan contributions, death and survivor benefits, domestic relations orders (QDRO), records management, participant education and compliance communications.
• Assist with plan documentation including amendments, summary plan descriptions, and changes to vendor agreements.
• Serve as a resource to payroll services and process contributions.
• Work with plan auditors, coordinating required data and responding to questions regarding plan administration.
• Coordinate with plan investment consultant and service provider teams for quarterly Investment Committee meetings.
• Handle inquiries from ILWU regarding retirement benefits.
• Resolve benefits issues and assist with general and plan administration.
• Prepare and review materials for announcements of changes or additions to employee benefits.
• Research issues related to Full and Fair Reviews (claim appeals) and compose summaries and analyses.
• Prepare for and participate in Trustees and Benefit Subcommittee meetings.
• Support the development of bargaining proposals for benefits and analyze cost data.
• Review reports and analyze data as requested.
• Ensure timely completion and submission of all government-compliance filings and annual reporting requirements.
• Work with the Benefits Director on the ILWU-PMA benefit plan budget.
• Participate in other activities at the discretion of management.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree preferred or equivalent relevant experience.
• 3-5 years of experience in administering 401(k) retirement savings programs required.
• 3+ years of experience in health and welfare benefits administration related to Taft-Hartley plans required.
• Strong organizational and project management abilities.
• Professional and results-oriented approach with data-driven problem-solving skills.
• Ability to manage multiple tasks and projects in a fast-paced environment.
• Exceptional interpersonal skills and discretion.
• Attention to detail and accuracy.
• Proactive time management and prioritization skills.
• Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills.
• Proficient in document management and database systems, with extensive experience using Microsoft Office applications.

Nice-to-haves

• CEBS certification is a plus.

Benefits

• Comprehensive healthcare coverage through the ILWU-PMA Welfare Plan with no employee premiums and minimal out-of-pocket expenses.
• A 401(k)-retirement plan with employer matching.
• Tuition reimbursement for professional development opportunities.