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Defined Contribution Plan Jobs (NOW HIRING)

CAPTRUST

Defined Contribution Specialist

Raleigh, NC · On-site

The Defined Contribution Specialist will also manage investment projects and deadlines to ... Health, dental, and vision coverage, employer 401(k) plan and company match, health savings ...

CAPTRUST

Defined Contribution Specialist

Raleigh, NC · On-site

The Defined Contribution Specialist will also manage investment projects and deadlines to ... Health, dental, and vision coverage, employer 401(k) plan and company match, health savings ...

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All JobsDefined Contribution Plan Jobs

Defined Contribution Plan information

See salary details

$30.5K

$68.9K

$146K

How much do defined contribution plan jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for defined contribution plan in the United States is $68,945.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $47,500.00 and $80,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are common challenges faced by professionals managing defined contribution plans, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals managing Defined Contribution Plans often encounter challenges such as ensuring regulatory compliance, educating plan participants about investment options, and keeping up with evolving technology platforms. Addressing these issues typically involves ongoing professional development, collaborating closely with legal and compliance teams, and leveraging participant education programs. Success in this role also relies on strong communication skills and the ability to adapt to changing retirement plan regulations and industry best practices.

What is the difference between Defined Contribution Plan vs Retirement Plan Administrator?

AspectDefined Contribution PlanRetirement Plan Administrator
Primary RoleDesigns, manages, and oversees individual employee retirement accountsAdministers and processes retirement plan operations and compliance
CredentialsFinancial certifications (e.g., CFP, CFA) often preferredPlan administration certifications (e.g., ERPA, CPFA) beneficial
Work EnvironmentFinancial institutions, HR departments, consulting firmsFinancial services firms, HR departments, third-party administrators
Employer UsageEmployers offer and manage contribution plans like 401(k)Employers rely on administrators for plan compliance and recordkeeping

The main difference is that a Defined Contribution Plan refers to the type of retirement savings plan, while a Retirement Plan Administrator is a professional who manages and processes these plans. The administrator ensures compliance, accurate recordkeeping, and smooth operation of the plan, whereas the plan itself defines how contributions are made and benefits are accrued.

What skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as a defined contribution plan administrator?

To excel as a Defined Contribution Plan Administrator, you need a solid understanding of retirement plan regulations, compliance, and benefits administration, often backed by a degree in finance, business, or a related field. Familiarity with recordkeeping systems, payroll software, and compliance tools such as ERISA guidelines and ASPPA or CEBS certifications is typically required. Attention to detail, analytical thinking, and effective communication are critical soft skills for managing complex plan data and client interactions. These skills ensure accurate plan administration, regulatory compliance, and strong client satisfaction in a highly regulated environment.

What is a defined contribution plan?

Defined Contribution Plans are retirement savings plans in which employees, employers, or both make regular contributions to individual accounts. The final benefit depends on the amount contributed and the investment performance of those funds over time. Common examples include 401(k), 403(b), and 457 plans. Unlike defined benefit plans, which promise a specific payout at retirement, defined contribution plans do not guarantee a particular retirement benefit, making investment choices and account management important for participants.
More about Defined Contribution Plan jobs

What cities are hiring for Defined Contribution Plan jobs?

Cities with the most Defined Contribution Plan job openings:

What states have the most Defined Contribution Plan jobs?

States with the most job openings for Defined Contribution Plan jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Defined Contribution Plan jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Defined Contribution Plan jobs are:

Defined Contribution Plan jobs near you
Infographic showing various Defined Contribution Plan job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 21% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $68,945 per year, or $33.1 per hour.

Director of Defined Contribution

State Universities Retirement System of Illinois

Champaign, IL • On-site

$109K - $137K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 8 days ago

Job description

Director of Defined Contribution

Lead strategy. Strengthen retirement programs. Deliver exceptional member outcomes.


Location: Champaign, IL

Job Type: Full-time

Classification: Program Coordinator

Reports to: Chief Benefits Officer


If you are passionate about retirement plan leadership, strategic partnerships, and delivering high-quality retirement services, this role offers the opportunity to share and guide SURS’ defined contribution plans.



What You’ll Do


As the Director of Defined Contribution, you will lead the strategy, oversight, and administration of the SURS Retirement Savings Plan (RSP) and Deferred Compensation Plan (DCP). You will serve as the primary internal leader responsible for coordinating investment, legal, accounting, counseling, communications, and vendor partners to ensure these plans operate efficiently, compliantly, and in alignment with SURS’ mission.


This role combines strategic leadership, operational oversight, and vendor management while supporting a collaborative, mission-driven organization serving members throughout Illinois public higher education.


Defined Contribution Plan Leadership

  • Provide strategic leadership and operational oversight for the SURS Retirement Savings Plan (401a) and Deferred Compensation Plan (457b)
  • Ensure the effective and efficient administration of both defined contribution plans
  • Monitor compliance with SURS policies, applicable statutes, and plan documents
  • Identify opportunities to improve plan operations, services, and member experiences
Vendor & Recordkeeper Oversight
  • Serve as the primary liaison between SURS and the defined contribution recordkeeper, investment consultants, and other service providers
  • Monitor service level agreements and vendor performance to ensure quality service delivery
  • Collaborate with internal teams and vendors to resolve complex operational issues
  • Participate in vendor due diligence and evaluate opportunities to enhance plan services and capabilities

Team Leadership & Operational Management

  • Lead and support a team responsible for processing member terminations, forfeitures, refunds, and retirement distributions
  • Provide coaching, guidance, and performance management to team members
  • Assign and prioritize work to ensure service standards are met
  • Develop reporting and tracking mechanisms that support division goals and operational excellence
Investment Plan Strategy Collaboration
  • Partner with the SURS investment team to analyze and recommend improvements to the defined contribution investment lineup
  • Participate in discussions regarding innovative retirement plan strategies and industry best practices
  • Stay informed on developments within the pension and defined contribution industry
Cross Department Collaboration
  • Work closely with SURS teams including legal, accounting, counseling, communications, customer service and employer services to support program administration
  • Create educational materials and member communications related to the RSP and DCP
  • Serve as a technical resource for defined contribution operations and plan administration
Organizational Initiatives & System Implementation
  • Participate in initiatives supporting the implementation and ongoing enhancement of the SURS Pension Administration System
  • Support testing, system improvements, and process alignment for defined contribution operations
  • Assist with reporting and analysis related to Board reports, audits, and organizational initiatives
External Representation & Industry Engagement
  • Represent SURS’ defined contribution programs with external partners and professional organizations
  • Participate in conferences, industry discussions, and collaborative forums when appropriate
  • Maintain awareness of emerging trends, regulatory changes, and innovations in defined contribution plan management


Required Qualifications
  1. Bachelor’s degree.
  2. A total of one (1) year (12 months) in education, training and/or work experience in the area of specialization inherent to the position. (Note: Master’s Degree in an area consistent with the duties of the position may be substituted for one (1) year of work experience.)
  3. At least four (4) years of professional experience in retirement plan administration, financial services, pension administration, or a related field. (Note: A Master’s Degree in an area consistent with the duties of the position may be substituted for one (1) year of work experience.)


Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience administering or overseeing defined contribution retirement plans such as 401(a), 403(b), or 457(b)
  • Experience working with retirement plan recordkeepers or third-party administrators
  • Experience managing vendor relationships and service level agreements
  • Familiarity with government retirement plans or public pension systems
  • Experience working with investment consultants or evaluating retirement plan investment lineups
  • Increasing leadership experience within benefits, financial services, or retirement plan administration
  • Experience preparing operational reports, board materials, or audit documentation


Knowledge, Skills & Abilities
  • Strong problem-solving and decision-making skills
  • Excellent written and verbal communication abilities
  • Demonstrated ability to effectively train, coach, mentor, and provide constructive feedback
  • Demonstrated ability to manage priorities and meet deadlines
  • Strong analytical skills with the ability to evaluate operational data and reports
  • Ability to build collaborative relationships across departments and with external partners
  • Professional presence and ability to positively represent the organization with stakeholders
  • Strong facilitation and presentation skills
  • Analytical mindset to assess learning gaps and operational trends
  • High level of professionalism and adaptability in a changing environment
  • Excellent time management and organizational skills


Work Environment & Compensation
  • Full-time position based in Champaign, IL
  • Fully in-office during initial training; potential hybrid schedule available afterward
  • The starting salary range for this position is $109,810 - $137,260. This is a competitive salary, taking into consideration experience and internal equity. Highly qualified candidates may be offered a salary higher than the above range.
  • Standard 37.5-hour work week

Benefits That Matter
      • State of Illinois insurance benefits including medical, dental, and vision
      • Participation in the SURS retirement plan
      • Paid vacation, sick leave, and 10 paid holidays
      • 2 floating holidays after 6 months
      • Paid parental leave after 6 months
      • Flexible, professional work environment
      • Free parking
      • Find more details regarding the benefits SURS offers at: SURS Employee Benefits - SURS



About SURS

The State Universities Retirement System (SURS) administers retirement, disability, survivor, and death benefits for over 255,000 members across Illinois public higher education institutions. Founded in 1941, SURS manages more than $30 billion in assets, including over $5 billion in defined contributions assets, and is committed to delivering accurate, timely, and compassionate service to members throughout their careers and lives.

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