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Employee Benefits Attorney

Buffalo, NY · On-site

$139K - $192K/yr

We need someone with 4-10 years of substantive employee benefits experience at a law firm, with a primary focus on the retirement / ERISA side -- qualified plans, 401(k), pension, deferred ...

Talent Search PRO

Employee Benefits Attorney

Albany, NY · On-site

$139K - $192K/yr

We need someone with 4-10 years of substantive employee benefits experience at a law firm, with a primary focus on the retirement / ERISA side -- qualified plans, 401(k), pension, deferred ...

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Benefits Attorney information

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$67.5K

$146.2K

$200K

How much do benefits attorney jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for benefits attorney in the United States is $146,214.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $88,500.00 and $180,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Benefits Attorney, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Benefits Attorney, you need a deep understanding of employee benefits law, ERISA regulations, and typically a Juris Doctor (JD) with bar admission. Familiarity with legal research databases such as Westlaw or LexisNexis and experience drafting plan documents or compliance filings are crucial. Excellent analytical thinking, negotiation skills, and strong written and verbal communication help you effectively advise clients and resolve disputes. These skills are critical for navigating complex regulations, minimizing legal risks, and ensuring clients remain compliant with benefits laws.

What are some common challenges Benefits Attorneys face when navigating complex employee benefits regulations?

Benefits Attorneys often encounter challenges in keeping up with rapidly changing federal and state regulations, such as ERISA, HIPAA, and the Affordable Care Act. Interpreting these complex laws for clients and ensuring ongoing compliance can be demanding, especially as new guidance is frequently issued by regulatory agencies. Additionally, Benefits Attorneys must collaborate closely with HR teams, plan administrators, and other legal professionals to resolve disputes and implement effective benefit strategies. Staying proactive and detail-oriented is essential to address these evolving legal requirements and protect clients' interests.

What is a Benefits Attorney?

A Benefits Attorney is a lawyer who specializes in laws and regulations related to employee benefits, such as retirement plans, health insurance, disability benefits, and other workplace compensation programs. They advise employers on compliance with federal and state benefits laws like ERISA, represent clients in disputes over benefits, and help design benefit plans. Benefits Attorneys may also assist individuals seeking to claim or appeal denied benefits. Their expertise ensures that benefit programs are legally compliant and that employees receive the benefits to which they are entitled.

What is the difference between Benefits Attorney vs Employee Benefits Specialist?

AspectBenefits AttorneyEmployee Benefits Specialist
CredentialsJuris Doctor (JD), State Bar AdmissionBachelor's degree, certifications like CEBS (Certified Employee Benefits Specialist)
Work EnvironmentLaw firms, corporate legal departments, government agenciesHuman resources departments, consulting firms, corporate settings
Primary FocusLegal compliance, drafting benefit plans, advising on benefits lawAdministering benefits programs, employee communication, benefits enrollment

Benefits Attorneys focus on legal aspects of employee benefits, ensuring compliance and drafting plans, while Employee Benefits Specialists handle the administration and communication of benefits programs. Both roles require knowledge of benefits laws, but Benefits Attorneys are more legally oriented, whereas Benefits Specialists focus on day-to-day benefits management.

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What states have the most Benefits Attorney jobs? States with the most job openings for Benefits Attorney jobs include:
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Benefits Attorney jobs near you

Employee Benefits Attorney (Remote in NY)

Team Bss

New York, NY • On-site, Remote

$139K - $192K/yr

Full-time

Retirement

Posted 2 days ago

New

Job description

EMPLOYEE BENEFITS ATTORNEY

Remote in NY | $139,000 - $192,000 | Relocation available | Mid - Senior level | Benefits | Hybrid or onsite available in Rochester, Albany, or Buffalo, if preferred

ABOUT THE ROLE

This mid- to senior-level Employee Benefits Attorney role offers the opportunity to work with sophisticated clients on complex ERISA and benefits matters while enjoying flexibility, autonomy, and meaningful professional development. You will advise employers on retirement, welfare, and fringe benefit plans; navigate evolving regulatory requirements; and serve as a trusted counselor on compliance, plan operations, and fiduciary responsibilities. This position is available in Rochester, Buffalo, or Albany, with hybrid and remote options for experienced candidates.

Many Employee Benefits attorneys face pain points such as siloed work, limited mentorship, and environments where benefits expertise is undervalued. This role is intentionally structured to provide collaboration with experienced partners, broad exposure to diverse benefits matters, and a supportive culture that values strategic thinking, innovation, and long-term career growth.

WHY YOU'LL LOVE WORKING HERE!
  • Highly collaborative team with strong partner accessibility
  • Opportunities to work on complex ERISA matters and high-level advisory work
  • Flexible hybrid/remote work options
  • Strong commitment to professional development and mentorship
  • Supportive environment that values initiative, autonomy, and strategic thinking
  • Competitive compensation aligned with experience and market demand
  • High-quality work without the burnout culture of large metropolitan firms
WHAT YOU'LL DO
  • Advise clients on ERISA compliance and related regulatory requirements
  • Design, establish, and maintain retirement, welfare, and fringe benefit plans
  • Provide guidance on benefit plan operations and ongoing compliance obligations
  • Counsel clients on fiduciary responsibilities, audits, and plan corrections
  • Monitor regulatory changes and advise clients on risk mitigation strategies
  • Draft plan documents, amendments, and compliance communications
  • Collaborate with internal teams to support client needs across practice areas
WHAT MAKES YOU A GREAT FIT
  • 4–10 years of experience in Employee Benefits or ERISA law
  • Strong command of retirement, welfare, and fringe benefit plan regulations
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills
  • Strong analytical abilities and attention to detail
  • Ability to manage multiple client matters with accuracy and professionalism
  • Client-focused mindset with a proactive approach to problem-solving

Preferred

  • Experience advising employers on complex plan design
  • Background in fiduciary compliance or plan corrections
  • Prior experience with audits or regulatory agency interactions
  • Familiarity with multiemployer plans or executive compensation
  • Strong interest in long-term career growth within Employee Benefits law
ABOUT THE FIRM

This firm is a well-established, highly respected organization known for its strong client relationships, collaborative culture, and commitment to excellence. Attorneys here enjoy meaningful mentorship, access to sophisticated work, and a supportive environment that prioritizes professional development, work-life balance, and long-term career success. The firm is recognized for its stability, integrity, and dedication to delivering exceptional legal service.

ABOUT THE LOCATION

Rochester, Buffalo, and Albany offer a unique blend of affordability, culture, and outdoor recreation. These cities provide vibrant downtowns, diverse dining, performing arts, waterfront activities, hiking trails, ski resorts, and family-friendly neighborhoods — all at a lower cost of living than major metropolitan areas. For attorneys seeking balance, community, and quality of life, these regions offer an appealing alternative. Relocation assistance may be available.

DISCLOSURES

New York Pay Transparency Compliance:
This role's compensation range of $139,000 – $192,000 reflects the base salary the firm reasonably expects to offer for the position. Actual compensation will depend on experience, qualifications, and skill level.

Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO):
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other legally protected characteristic.

At-Will Employment Notice:
Employment with the firm is at-will and may be terminated at any time by either party, consistent with applicable law.

Visa Disclosure:
Visa sponsorship is not available for this position.

Ref # BSS 25-03533