Description
Analyze participant and asset data to measure and certify funding obligations and liabilities of tax-qualified defined benefit pension plans under ERISA and IRS rules. Build actuarial models and tables, set assumptions, sign required filings, and advise sponsors on plan design, funding strategy, and regulatory compliance to ensure benefits can be paid.
- • Model scenarios for cash funding, AFTAP, and funding balance utilization, and communicate results to executives and fiduciaries.
- • Coordinate with HR, finance, recordkeepers, attorneys, investment advisors, and auditors to administer plans and resolve issues.
- • Prepare actuarial reports and participant disclosures, and explain complex technical matters in clear terms.
- • Assist with IRS, DOL, and PBGC audits, inquiries, and correction program submissions.
- • Provide consulting services to multiple clients, including plan design changes and compliance reviews.
- • Support standard or distress terminations, including annuity placement analysis and compliance filings.
- • Perform annual actuarial valuations of defined benefit plans and determine minimum required and recommended contributions.
- • Sign and file Schedule SB/MB certifications and related actuarial disclosures for Form 5500.
- • Calculate AFTAP and Section 436 benefit restrictions and certify results to plan sponsors.
- • Develop, select, and document actuarial assumptions and methods, including mortality, retirement, termination, and salary scale.
- • Construct and maintain plan-specific actuarial tables and experience studies.
- • Calculate PBGC premiums and prepare or support PBGC filings.
- • Analyze effects of plan amendments, freezes, mergers, or terminations on funding, liabilities, and contributions.
- • Interpret plan documents and calculate accrued benefits, actuarial equivalents, lump sums, and optional forms in compliance with 417(e).
- • Advise sponsors on funding policy, contribution timing, asset-liability management, and de-risking strategies.
Related specializations
Interview options
Interview options
Interviewee gender
Interviewee accent
Interview time
Related Pathways
Financial Services
View
Source
Tasks & skills:
O*NET occupational data (work activities, skills, knowledge).
Learn more
Sources & Standards:
This site includes information from O*NET by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA), used under the CC BY 4.0 license. Career Clutch has modified some of this information for student readability. USDOL/ETA has not approved, endorsed, or tested these modifications. O*NET® is a trademark of USDOL/ETA.
Last reviewed: Jan 2026