Benefits Manager

San Jose, California, United States: Headquartered in Silicon Valley, California, Archer is a leader in the next-gen aerospace sector building an end-to-end advanced air mobility platform that delivers air taxis, unmanned aircraft systems ("UAS"), aviation-related physical artificial intelligence ("AI") solutions, and other technologies to customers worldwide across the commercial aerospace and defense sectors. Our sights are set high and our problems are hard, and we believe that diversity in the workplace is what makes us smarter, drives better insights, and will ultimately lift us all to success. We are dedicated to cultivating an equitable and inclusive environment that embraces our differences, and supports and celebrates all of our team members. Our People team builds the programs and infrastructure that let Archer attract, develop, and retain the talent needed to bring an entirely new category of aircraft to market. From total rewards to people operations to talent development, we partner across the business to ensure every employee has what they need to do their best work.

What You'll Do: As Benefits Manager, you will own the strategy, design, and day-to-day operation of Archer's global benefits programs. This role is critical to ensuring employees have access to competitive, well-run benefits as Archer scales its workforce and expands internationally. Partner with senior people leadership to develop and execute on a comprehensive benefits strategy that supports our overall business objectives. Manage all operational aspects of Archer's global benefits program, including the renewal process, contribution strategy/modeling, open enrollment, leave administration, and employee inquiries. Partner closely with key stakeholders such as People Business Partners to understand employee feedback and improve upon our program. Ensure smooth delivery of our benefits program through rigorous management of our vendor relationships and technology-enabled solutions. Support international expansion efforts by standing up and maintaining benefits in various regions around the world. Monitor benefits compliance with applicable federal, state, and local regulations (e.g., ERISA, ACA, HIPAA, COBRA), and manage required filings and audits. Analyze benefits utilization, cost trends, and benchmarking data to recommend program changes that balance employee experience with cost management.

What You Need: 7+ years of progressive benefits experience, including at least 2 years in a benefits management or leadership capacity. Bachelor's degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or a related field, or equivalent practical experience. Strong working knowledge of benefits administration platforms (e.g., Workday, Rippling, or similar HRIS/benefits systems).Demonstrated ability to lead cross-functional initiatives and influence stakeholders without direct authority. Deep familiarity with U.S. benefits compliance requirements (ERISA, ACA, HIPAA, COBRA, state leave laws); familiarity with international benefits frameworks a plus. Excellent analytical skills, with the ability to model costs, interpret data, and translate findings into actionable recommendations. Strong communication skills and a service-oriented mindset when supporting employee inquiries.

Bonus Qualifications: Experience building or scaling benefits programs in multiple international markets. Prior experience in a high-growth startup or manufacturing/aerospace environment. Experience managing broker and carrier relationships through a competitive RFP process. Familiarity with leave-of-absence case management at scale. A collaborative, detail-oriented approach with a track record of improving processes and employee experience. Please note that this job description is intended to provide a general overview of the position and does not include an exhaustive list of responsibilities and qualifications. At Archer we aim to attract, retain, and motivate talent that possess the skills and leadership necessary to grow our business. We drive a pay-for-performance culture and reward performance that supports the Company's business strategy. For this position we are targeting a base pay between $130,800 - $163,500. Actual compensation offered will be determined by factors such as job-related knowledge, skills, and experience.