Retirement Plan Operations Specialist

Smart Ims; Charlotte (NC); On-site; USD 45,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

Smart Ims is looking for a Retirement Services Processor to manage complex corrections in employer-sponsored retirement plans. This full-time role allows for remote work, requiring candidates to have a suitable home office and prior experience with 401(k) and similar plans.

The successful applicant will process transactions and ensure compliance with established procedures while maintaining confidentiality of sensitive information.

Candidates must possess at least 2-3 years of relevant experience and be proficient in Microsoft Excel. Strong attention to detail and organizational skills are essential.

Qualifications

• Minimum 2–3 years of recent retirement services experience required.
• Direct experience with employer-funded plans like 401(k), 403(b), and 457.
• Strong ability to handle corrections and complex processing.

Responsibilities

• Process routine retirement plan transactions accurately.
• Monitor incoming work queues to ensure timely completion.
• Provide routine retirement plan information to stakeholders.

Skills

Retirement Services Experience

Transaction Processing

Attention to Detail

Excel Proficiency

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Tools

Microsoft Office Suite

SSNC/Smartdesk Track

Job description

Role Overview

We are currently seeking experienced professionals for a Retirement Services Processor role focused on complex corrections within employer-sponsored retirement plans. This is a full-time, 40-hour-per-week remote assignment supporting high-volume retirement plan administration functions.

This position is responsible for performing and delivering highly routine retirement plan administration work in accordance with established procedures and guidelines. The selected candidate will review, research, and process retirement transactions while ensuring accuracy, timeliness, and compliance with regulatory standards.

Qualifications

What the Hiring Manager Is Looking For

• Minimum 2–3 years of recent retirement services experience (within the last 12 months; ideally 2–4 years total experience).
• Direct experience with employer-funded plans such as 401(k), 403(b), and 457 plans is required.
• Strong background in processing transactions including enrollments, contributions, distributions, and money movement (in/out).
• Experience handling corrections and complex transaction processing is highly valued.
• Prior experience with major retirement service providers such as Voya, AIG, Empower, TIAA-CREF, or Fidelity is strongly preferred.
• Annuities experience is a plus; however, employer-funded plan processing is the primary focus.
• Experience with Excel (including spreadsheets and macros) and systems such as SSNC/Smartdesk Track is beneficial.

Please note: Previous postings without experience requirements resulted in significant training and ramp-up challenges. This role requires candidates who can contribute quickly within a structured four-week training window.

Work Environment & Equipment Requirements

• Dedicated, private home workspace suitable for handling sensitive financial information.
• Must have company-approved equipment setup (laptop, two monitors, keyboard, and mouse).
• Camera must remain on during all meetings.
• Privacy and confidentiality are critical; candidates without an appropriate workspace will not be considered.

Training & Attendance Expectations

• Attendance during the mandatory four-week training period is required; no planned time off is permitted during training except for emergencies.
• The first 60–90 days are critical for success. Planned time off during this period should be avoided.
• Absenteeism during training will not be tolerated.
• Unauthorized software installations or use of non-company equipment is strictly prohibited.

Core Responsibilities

• Review, research, and process routine retirement plan transactions in alignment with established procedures.
• Process enrollments, contributions, distributions, and corrections accurately and within departmental production standards.
• Monitor and manage incoming work queues to ensure timely completion.
• Maintain strict confidentiality of participant and plan sponsor data.
• Provide routine technical retirement plan information to internal and external stakeholders.
• Escalate issues to senior team members or management as appropriate.
• Support departmental and enterprise initiatives and contribute to continuous process improvement.
• Ensure compliance with all state and federal regulations and company policies.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED required (minimum).
• Strong attention to detail and ability to perform repetitive tasks with speed and accuracy.
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, high-volume environment.
• Strong organizational, interpersonal, and relationship management skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook).
• Demonstrated ability to exercise sound judgment when handling confidential information.

All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.

Job Location: Remote.