ERISA & Benefits Counsel — Strategic Governance

Cisco; Durham (NC); Hybrid; USD 192,000 - 244,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid work model (two days in office)

Medical, dental and vision insurance

401(k) with Cisco matching

Paid parental leave

Disability coverage

Life insurance

Paid holidays

Vacation and sick time

Volunteer days

Job summary

Cisco is seeking an experienced attorney to lead US Benefits and ERISA matters within the People Legal Team. You will shape the legal governance of health, welfare, and retirement programs, collaborating with HR and business partners to ensure compliant, competitive benefits design.

The role emphasizes fiduciary responsibilities, plan administration, and proactive risk mitigation in a global tech environment. Hybrid schedule offered with in-office presence two days per week.

Qualifications

• J.D. from an accredited law school with a strong academic record.
• Active member in good standing of at least one U.S. State Bar.
• 7+ years of experience focusing on ERISA and US Benefits law in a major law firm or large corporate legal department.

Responsibilities

• Serve as the primary legal architect for Cisco’s US Benefits programs and provide strategic legal framework for health, welfare, and retirement offerings.
• Provide fiduciary counseling on ERISA and Internal Revenue Code compliance to plan committees.
• Advise on plan administration, filings, offerings, and documentation including SPDs; review vendor agreements and marketing materials.
• Lead litigation and administrative claims strategy for benefits matters; mitigate risks in collaboration with Global Benefits and Finance.

Skills

Juris Doctorate (J.D.)

ERISA & US Benefits law

Legal counsel & fiduciary duties

Cross-functional collaboration

Education

Juris Doctorate (J.D.)

Job description

Cisco is seeking an experienced attorney to lead US Benefits and ERISA matters within the People Legal Team. You will shape the legal governance of health, welfare, and retirement programs, collaborating with HR and business partners to ensure compliant, competitive benefits design.

The role emphasizes fiduciary responsibilities, plan administration, and proactive risk mitigation in a global tech environment. Hybrid schedule offered with in-office presence two days per week.