Special Services Associate – Third Party Administrator; TPA)

The Special Services Associate – Third Party Administrator (TPA) position is an on-site opportunity available in either the Columbia or Jefferson City office. The position is responsible for third-party administration (TPA) of qualified retirement plans under the guidance and review of Special Services Department leadership. Typical responsibilities include reconciling and reviewing payroll census data, eligibility, contributions, and distributions; creating trial balances from trust statements;

preparing employer contribution calculations, compliance testing, and annual government filings; coordinating with clients to provide necessary documentation and notices; and responding to client questions.

• Understand plan document provisions and process TPA tasks while assessing plan design and activity for compliance with the regulations and guidance of the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA), Internal Revenue Service (IRS), Department of Labor (DOL), and other government agencies.
• Complete assigned tasks on time, with quality and accuracy.
• Use information technology tools effectively.
• Identify plan operational errors and make recommendations for correction to leadership.
• Prepare meaningful and well-written recommendations for inclusion in client correspondence.
• Demonstrate the ability to formulate alternatives when unable to solve problems.
• Stay current on legislation, regulations, and guidance affecting retirement plans and prepare meaningful communications for updating leadership and advising clients.
• Follow firm and professional standards.
• Follow regulations and professional ethics of the American Retirement Association (ARA), the AICPA and Missouri Society of Certified Public Accountants (MSCPA).

• A minimum of a bachelor’s degree in accounting or finance.
• Preferred candidates will have demonstrated experience in third-party administration and possess or be committed to earning American Society of Pension Professionals and Actuaries (ASPPA) credentials, including the Introduction to Retirement Plans (IRP) Certificate and the Retirement Plan Fundamentals (RPF) Certificate.
• Working knowledge of accounting fundamentals, including reconciling accounts.
• Proficiency with the Microsoft Office suite and Adobe software platforms.
• Use of word processing, spreadsheets, email, document management, project management, and calendaring programs is required.
• Excellent organizational and time management skills, with the ability to prioritize tasks and meet deadlines.
• Exceptional attention to detail and accuracy, with a focus on delivering high-quality results.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to effectively collaborate with cross-functional teams.
• Analytical mindset with problem-solving abilities.
• Ability to work independently and handle multiple projects simultaneously.

• Adhere to all firm policies and procedures, as outlined in the Associate Handbook.
• Be pleasant, courteous, and helpful with staff and clients.
• Be efficient and organized when carrying out tasks.
• Maintain a neat and organized work environment for maximum efficiency and productivity.
• Maintain strict confidentiality of all client and business transactions.
• Effectively manage numerous tasks and projects.
• Demonstrate excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Demonstrate a professional attitude and support a teamwork-oriented environment.
• Develop positive working relationships with clients and co-workers.
• Must have exceptional attendance.

• displaying progress toward completing the IRP and RPF certificates;
• participating in continuing professional education;
• researching and reading professional and technical resources…