Specialist, Retirement Benefits

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.

• 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.