Defined Plan Consultant​/Actuarial Analyst

Location

Note:

Remote

The Defined Benefit Plan Consultant position is for retirement plan professionals who are passionate about client service and defined benefit plan administration. This position is customer service focused! The role serves as the primary point of contact for a dedicated book of clients, overseeing the administration of defined benefit and cash balance retirement plans. The role is responsible for delivering day-to-day client support, communicating plan information clearly and ensuring plan compliance through the performance of actuarial valuations, preparation of valuation reports, and execution of regulatory compliance testing.

• A passion for the retirement plan industry and enthusiasm for client service and consulting.
• Strong relationship‑building skills with clients, colleagues, and external partners.
• Excellent interpersonal skills, with the ability to communicate effectively and engage comfortably with a wide variety of people.
• Familiarity with traditional defined benefit and cash balance retirement plan designs.
• Practical experience with retirement plan compliance testing and the ability to present results and recommendations to stakeholders.
• Proven ability to work both independently and as part of a collaborative team.
• Analytical and problem‑solving skills to address complex plan administration and compliance issues.
• High level of organization, self‑motivation, time‑management, and attention to detail within a fast‑paced, deadline‑driven environment.

• Developing and maintaining client relationships across many different industries with varying levels of benefit and financial experience.
• Assisting clients with plan design including but not limited to aligning their Defined Benefit and Defined Contribution plans to meet their company objectives and IRS compliance requirements.
• Answering a variety of client questions related to plan administration, plan design and participant inquiries.
• Maintaining knowledge of ERISA, the Internal Revenue Code and related regulations.
• Reviewing and interpreting plan documents, amendments, notices and summary plan descriptions.
• Performing aspects of Defined Benefit Plan administration:
  • Reconcile participant census and determine eligible, key and highly compensated employees.
  • Perform annual valuations and determine IRS minimum and maximum contributions.
  • Coordinate contribution funding with client.
  • Prepare valuation reports and participant statements.
  • Prepare AFTAP certification, Schedule SB and PBGC filings for actuary signature.
  • Assist with preparation of Form 5500 filings.
  • Coordinate annual PBGC filings.
  • Prepare annual funding notice.
  • Perform benefit calculations and prepare distribution paperwork.
  • Perform annual IRS nondiscrimination testing, including aggregated testing with Defined Contribution plans.
  • Respond to auditor inquiries if plan is subject to annual audit.
  • Assist in performance of plan termination filings including filing with IRS and PBGC, if applicable.
• Grow professional knowledge through training and self‑study.
• Perform other team tasks and participate in projects as needed.

We are looking for a customer‑focused consultant who can take the complex world of retirement plan administration and communicate it clearly and effectively to customers. You are detail‑oriented with the ability to work in a fast‑paced environment managing multiple priorities and meeting deadlines. The benefits industry is forever changing, and we want someone who is flexible and willing to embrace that change.

• At least 3 years of actuarial and consulting experience in all aspects of defined benefit plan valuation and administration, combined defined benefit/defined contribution plan non‑discrimination testing and alternative plan design.
• Intermediate to advanced knowledge of Microsoft Excel including the use of formulas and overall ability to learn and use different software packages.
• Experience with Relius Administration software preferred (but not required).
• Salary Range: $60,000–$75,000

At Sentinel, compensation is calibrated to your geographic location to reflect…