Retirement Operations Implementation Specialist

Position Summary :

The Retirement Operations Implementation Specialist I is responsible for coordinating and handling the setup of new plans and investing transferred assets.

They will maintain retirement and recordkeeping knowledge, ensure timelines are followed and effectively communicated, plans are setup accurately on all systems, special administrative needs are identified and outlined, and plans are successfully transitioned to the permanent servicing teams.

The Retirement Operations Implementation Specialist I will maintain a client focus to deliver a superior internal and external client experience.

Essential Responsibilities :

Job Function 1 : New Business Plan Setup & Coordination 60%

• Execute accurate and timely plan and investments set-up on the recordkeeping system.
• Work with team members to obtain plan detail to import and reconcile conversion data accurately and timely.
• Review work to ensure plan conversion is accurately implemented.
• Responsible for appropriate escalation of conversion related issues and / or concerns.
• Ensure employer reports and participant statements are accurate and delivered timely after completion of plan conversion.
• Recognize and communicate special plan needs to permanent service team to ensure successful transition of the plan.
• Understand how the recordkeeping and ancillary systems operate and report information to effectively setup and transition new plans.
• Build subject matter expertise on retirement system processes and regulations.

Job Function 2 : Team Support - 25%

• Provide primary and backup coverage, as needed.
• Actively participate in meetings for the company, department, and team.
• Foster a positive work environment and support coworkers in achievement of goals.
• Treat all coworkers with professionalism and respect.
• Recognize and celebrate individual / team accomplishments.
• Actively participate in team meetings by providing insight, contributions, and feedback.
• Assist with team or company-wide projects, as required.
• Update and maintain written procedures in Alerus procedure database.

Job Function 3 : Professional and Personal Development 15%

• Gain experience and knowledge encompassing all systems and process that pertain to the position.
• Gain and maintain compliance knowledge of regulations, policies, and procedures.
• Actively pursue continuing educations, reading, and self-development to enhance skills.
• Complete regulations, compliance, and additional training as assigned.
• Build solid working relationships with team members across the organization.

Position Requirements :

Qualifications :

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, Business, or equivalent related work experience.
• One or more years of experience in basic defined contribution plan administration or daily-defined contribution plan implementation.
• Familiarity with retirement and recordkeeping systems and recordkeeping operational functions.
• Demonstrated ability to collaborate with employees and customers.
• Ability to effectively interact with end users and business sponsors.
• Efficient in Microsoft Excel including formulas, pivot tables, and functions.
• Ability to effectively prioritize and manage multiple assignments.
• Demonstrated problem-solving ability.
• Proven record of working in a fast-paced environment while managing multiple tasks and deadlines.
• Available to work flexible hours to meet daily schedules and cover peak workloads.

Personal Characteristics :

• Persuasive, encouraging, and motivating.
• Ability to communicate effectively with clients and coworkers.
• Ability to work independently while supporting a collaborative and team orientated environment.
• Reliable follow through without supervision.
• Innovative thinker.
• Positive attitude and team motivator.
• High attention to detail.
• Exceptional organizational skills.

Physical Demands - Must be met with or without a reasonable accommodation :

• Extended periods of time sitting at a desk and using office equipment.
• Ability to operate a personal computer / laptop for approximately 8 hours per day.
• Extended time is spent reviewing physical and electronic documents.
• The employee is occasionally required to stand, walk, reach with arms and hands, climb or balance, and to stoop, kneel, crouch or crawl.

Vision abilities required by this job include close vision.

• Periodically, may also do light lifting of supplies and materials which weighs in at approximately 20 lbs.
• Will spend most of time in an indoor environment.

Alerus Financial is an Equal Opportunity Employer of women, minorities, protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.