Senior Counsel - Employee Benefits & ERISA

Vanguard; Washington (District of Columbia); Hybrid; USD 180,000 - 240,000; Full time

Job summary

Vanguard seeks an experienced employee benefits attorney to join the HR Legal Services group. The role advises on U.S. and global employee benefits programs, including executive compensation, and collaborates with tax, procurement, finance and HR leaders.

The attorney will lead and manage outside counsel, provide proactive legal advice, and contribute to Vanguard's global benefits strategy. A JD with 10+ years of relevant experience is required; U.S. bar admission is essential.

Qualifications

• Must have JD and active U.S. bar license.
• Minimum 10 years of relevant experience in law firms, industry, or government.
• Deep expertise in ERISA, U.S. tax, and employee benefits advisory.

Responsibilities

• Provide employee benefits, tax and ERISA fiduciary counsel on U.S. health, retirement, and executive compensation programs.
• Coordinate benefits guidance for non-U.S. programs as needed.
• Educate HR clients on legal, tax and regulatory considerations; assess litigation risk.

Skills

ERISA knowledge

Executive compensation

Employee benefits law

Tax advice

Strong communication

Education

Juris Doctor (JD)

Active bar admission (US)

Job description

Vanguard seeks an experienced employee benefits attorney to join the HR Legal Services group. The role advises on U.S. and global employee benefits programs, including executive compensation, and collaborates with tax, procurement, finance and HR leaders.

The attorney will lead and manage outside counsel, provide proactive legal advice, and contribute to Vanguard's global benefits strategy. A JD with 10+ years of relevant experience is required; U.S. bar admission is essential.