Job Description

Level: Management
Job Location: Penn Center - Denver, CO 80203
Position Type: Full Time
Salary Range: $95,000.00 - $102,000.00 Salary
Job Category: Management

Summary of Job Responsibilities
This position is responsible for the management of a team within the Benefits Administration Division. This manager oversees the Compliance and Research Team which is responsible for regulatory alignment with the state laws and PERA rules related to member salaries, required contributions and membership, and post-retirement employment provisions. Other duties include coordination and scheduling of workload and projects; setting expectations and monitoring work for timely completion and quality assurance; performance management; and the handling of escalated and complex issues for the Compliance and Research Team.
IDEAL CANDIDATE
Colorado PERA is seeking a manager for our Compliance and Research Team. The ideal candidate is a confident leader and experienced communicator who can build trust and drive results. They must be a big picture thinker with experience interpreting and applying law when necessary. Our ideal candidate will be willing to work with an established team to foster individual growth and professional development. They will have a proven track record of fostering a strong, collaborative team culture, and can demonstrate an ability to consistently influence and inspire others through clear communication and integrity. If you are a motivated, goal-oriented professional looking for a specialized team to apply your unique leadership skills, then this is a great fit for you.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities
Employees are held accountable for all duties of the job. Individuals must be able to perform these duties with or without reasonable accommodations.
- Supervises the daily work assignments of the Compliance and Research team
- Oversees team projects, including the management of project timelines, prioritization of tasks, and progress monitoring.
- Manages the resolution of escalated employer, retiree, and member reported inquiries or issues
- Analyzes, evaluates and develops strategies to ensure compliance with PERA rules and laws
- Meets regularly with staff to provide coaching, mentoring, and feedback
- Sets and communicates standards and expectations that are specific and measurable for productivity goals and employee development; prepares and conducts performance reviews and corrective action when necessary
- Ensures that staff have the resources and tools needed to effectively perform their job duties, research issues, and provide timely and accurate information and solutions
- Communicates regularly with senior management about operational issues, concerns, and status of work projects and assignments; seeks and implements feedback
- Partners with other divisional managers, internal divisions and/or outside vendors in managing operational systems, processes, forms, and publications
- Collects and researches complex or diverse data; Presents findings and data trends to management when necessary
- Identifies process improvement opportunities and presents recommendations and business-case justifications for modification or changes
- Visibly supports management decisions and change efforts, and translates vision and strategy to staff
- Partners with Human Resources in the interviewing, hiring, and training of team members
- Participates in training and educational opportunities for ongoing professional development
- Maintains regular and prompt attendance in the workplace
- Carries out other duties and special projects as assigned
Job

Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in business, public administration, or related field is preferred; five years or more of progressive experience in leadership or direct experience to the essential functions described. The equivalent combination of education and experience, preferably in pension/retirement plans and/or the financial services industry, is acceptable
- Demonstrated leadership and management capabilities
- Effective verbal and written communication, interpersonal, and professional collaboration skills
- Ability to deal with sensitive and/or confidential information and situations in a professional manner
- Problem solving skills and an ability to deal effectively with challenging situations
- Experience exercising ethical decision-making, discretion, and sound judgment
- Ability to comprehend and readily communicate complex information
- Knowledge of information systems, databases, and personal computer applications
- Ability to prioritize, organize, and work with minimal supervision, and act with an appropriate sense of urgency
- Highly detail oriented with a strong aptitude for mat
Working Conditions
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.  Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
- Standard office environment with frequent telephone communication, computer operation, and other office productivity machinery, such as a copy and printer machine.
- Occasional moving and positioning supplies in excess of 20 pounds
- All employees are expected to present themselves in a professional manner in alignment with the financial services industry
- Ability to sit for prolonged periods of time
- Ability to operate standard PC equipment
- Ability to manage frequent deadlines and tight schedules
Hybrid Work Option
- Opportunity to work from home up to two days per week. Eligibility dependent upon factors detailed in PERA's Work from Home Policy.
Interested Candidates:
Complete the employment application online at https://www.copera.org/careers. Please have copies of your resume and cover letter available to upload. Please review the following questions. You will be asked for a response to these as part of your application:
1. Describe a habit or routine you implemented that says something meaningful about who you are as a leader.
2. Drawing on your personal experience, describe one failure that changed your mindset or behavior more than your achievements ever did.

Disclaimer
This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, or responsibilities that are required of an employee. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change or be assigned with or without notice.
Unfortunately, at this time, PERA cannot consider candidates that require sponsorship (now or in the future), or are located outside of the US.
All Colorado PERA employees are subject to PERA’s Ethics Policy and some employees are subject to the Personal Trading Policy. These policies include restrictions on outside business activities and employment and have certain requirements on personal trading.  You may request copies of these policies from PERA’s talent acquisition team and any questions can be answered by PERA’s Investment Administration team.
Why Work at PERA
Colorado PERA offers more than a traditional pension career. We are a mission-driven organization with a growing focus on technology and modernization. Employees have the opportunity to do meaningful work with a real impact on over 700,000 members. From enhancing digital tools and member experiences to supporting major enterprise initiatives, employees are part of meaningful, future-focused work that blends public service with innovation. We take pride in our inclusive culture, career development opportunities, and our consistent recognition as a Top Workplace based on employee feedback. PERA is a place to connect, contribute, and be part of something bigger.
A Culture That Cares
At PERA, leveraging employee strengths and supporting strong engagement are the foundations of our culture. Employees are encouraged to grow through development opportunities and internal career movement, while also being part of an organization where people feel respected, informed, and included. Collaboration is encouraged across teams, allowing employees to learn from one another and contribute in ways that maximize their unique skills. We strive to foster an environment where employees can do their best work and feel supported by the people around them
An Employer that Invests in You
PERA invests in our employees in ways that matter; from comprehensive benefits and generous paid time-off to thoughtful everyday amenities that enhance the office experience. Employees are encouraged to continue learning through training, mentoring, and development at every stage of their careers. We champion a workplace where people feel valued, inspired, and equipped to grow.
Join Us
If you’re energized by meaningful work, motivated by an organization that evolves with a changing world and looking for an employer that invests in you, then consider joining PERA’s team. Learn more about careers at PERA at copera.org/careers.
Position Title: Compliance and Research Manager
Division: Benefits Administration Division
Reports to: Director of Benefits Administration
Job Status: Full Time / Exempt
Salary: $95,000.00 to $102,000.00 annually, commensurate with experience
Posting Dates: 5/15/2026 - 5/31/2026