Specialist, Retirement Benefits

Job description

From a small family business to a multi-billion-dollar global company, Sonoco has been changing the face of products and packaging since 1899 — all while keeping the heart of “People Build Businesses” alive. Our talented people are at the core of our growth, constantly reinventing the Sonoco wheel with brilliant solutions every year. Today we are a world leader in global packaging solutions with diversified operations in over 34 countries. We're extremely proud of our portfolio of brands, our achievements in sustainability and industrialization and the groundbreaking work accomplished by our people. The Benefits Retirement Specialist plays a key role in supporting employees as they navigate retirement programs and long‑term financial benefits. This position combines deep knowledge of retirement plan administration with a strong commitment to customer service, ensuring employees understand their options and receive accurate, timely guidance. The ideal candidate is detail‑oriented, empathetic, and confident working with complex benefit regulations. What you'll be doing: Serve as the primary point of contact for employees with questions about retirement plans, pension options, 401(k)/403(b) programs, and other long‑term benefits. Provide clear explanations of plan features, eligibility rules, vesting schedules, and distribution options. Conduct one‑on‑one consultations to help employees understand retirement readiness and available resources. Process retirement plan enrollments, changes, withdrawals, rollovers, and terminations with accuracy and compliance. Maintain employee records and ensure data integrity across HRIS and benefits systems. Coordinate with third‑party administrators, payroll, and finance teams to resolve discrepancies or complex cases. Ensure all retirement plan activities comply with ERISA, IRS regulations, and company policies. Assist with annual audits, nondiscrimination testing, and required filings. Monitor regulatory changes and support updates to plan documents and employee communications. Develop and deliver retirement education materials, workshops, and informational sessions. Create clear, accessible documentation to help employees make informed decisions. Support open enrollment activities and broader benefits communication initiatives. This position is located at our Corporate headquarters in Hartsville, SC, which is close to exciting destinations (Myrtle Beach, SC, Charleston, SC, Columbia, SC, Charlotte, NC). Must be in the office 3-4 days a week. We’d love to hear from you if: Experience in benefits administration, retirement plan management, or a related HR function. Analytical thinking and problem‑solving ability. Strong understanding of retirement plan regulations (ERISA, IRS rules, COBRA, etc.). Excellent communication skills with the ability to explain complex concepts in simple terms. High attention to detail and strong organizational skills. Proficiency with HRIS, benefits platforms, and Microsoft Office tools. Professional certifications such as CEBS, RPA, or ASPPA credentials. Experience working with third‑party retirement plan administrators. Background in financial counseling or employee education. Customer‑focused mindset with a calm, supportive approach. Strong excel background Integrity and discretion when handling sensitive information. Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast‑paced environment. Compensation: Specialist I - Benefits: The annual base salary range for this role is from $71,280 to $80,190. Specialist II - Benefits: The annual base salary range for this role is from $88,000 to $99,000. Specialist III - Benefits: The annual base salary range for this role is from $104,800to $117,900. #LI-MW1 At Sonoco Products Company, we offer a comprehensive total rewards package, including competitive pay and benefits. *Benefits listed below are for employees located in the U.S. Specific benefits and wellbeing programs may vary depending on your location (within the U.S. or global), or if you are a union employee. Benefits Medical, dental, and vision coverage for you and your dependents, including FSA and HSA options 401(k) retirement plan with company match Wellbeing tools and resources to support holistic health, including an Employee Assistance Program with a variety of services Paid time off and holidays to recreate, rejuvenate and care for the health of yourself and family Variety of company paid and voluntary employee-paid insurance plans including life, personal accident, and disability insurance Tuition reimbursement We are an equal opportunity employer, and we strictly prohibit and do not tolerate discrimination against employees, applicants or any other covered persons because of race, color, religion, national origin or ancestry, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, marital status, gender identity or expression, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any legally protected characteristic.