Senior Counsel - Employee Benefits

American Electric Power • Columbus, OH

8d • $155,761 - $245,080 • Onsite

About The Position

We are seeking a knowledgeable and experienced In-House Employee Benefits Attorney to join our legal team. This role will focus on providing legal guidance and support on various employee benefits and compensation matters, ensuring compliance with federal and state regulations. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in employee benefits law, including the Internal Revenue Code and ERISA, and will work collaboratively with human resources, finance and other departments.

Requirements

• Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree from an accredited US law school
• 7+ years of legal experience, preferably in a law firm or corporate legal department and in the electric utility or energy sector.
• 9+ years of legal experience, preferably in a law firm or corporate legal department and in the electric utility or energy sector.

Responsibilities

• Advise on the design, implementation, and administration of employee benefit plans, including health and welfare (including retiree welfare) plans, tax qualified and nonqualified defined benefit and defined contribution retirement plans, fringe benefit programs, and annual and long-term incentive compensation plans.
• Ensure compliance with applicable laws and regulations, including the Internal Revenue Code, ERISA, HIPAA, COBRA, the Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act and the Affordable Care Act.
• Review and draft plan documents, summary plan descriptions, and other related materials.
• Conduct legal research and stay updated on changes in employee benefits law, including related tax law.
• Provide training and support to human resources and management on employee benefits issues, including their responses to employee inquiries regarding benefits and assist in resolving disputes.
• Manage litigation involving employee plans.
• Collaborate with external legal counsel as needed.
• Participate in benefits strategy discussions and contribute to policy development.

Benefits

• Short-term incentive
• Long-term incentive
• 401K match
• AEP Pension
• Comprehensive benefits package that aims to support and enhance the overall well-being of our employees.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: Ph.D. or professional degree
• Number of Employees: 5,001-10,000 employees