Frequently Asked Questions

PensionSmart has been in business since May 1999. The founding partners have significant experience with Pension Administration Software and PeopleSoft in particular. In the short time we have been in business, PensionSmart has nurtured a productive relationship with PeopleSoft providing Release 8 Testing and Problem Resolution Development services (fixing reported bugs). We have made significant contributions to all phases of a successful implementation at Chase Manhattan Bank. Finally, we have increased our brand exposure through conference presentations.
 

Q: What clients has PensionSmart worked with?

A: Our client list has included Andersen Consulting, United Parcel Service, American Family Insurance, William M. Mercer, JPMorgan Chase, Pfizer and PeopleSoft. Hiring representatives can provide additional details on services provided to these clients.
 

Q: What cities would I be traveling to as a PensionSmart employee?

A: Travel may be required to any U.S. city. Your hiring representative will be able to give details about current projects and sales efforts. There is always the possibility that consultants are needed in your hometown. It can be said that most pension consulting business is found in the Eastern or Midwest states, although there are potential assignments in the Southern and Western states.
 

Q: Does PensionSmart offer an actuarial study program?

No. Whereas exam experience is valuable, most candidates have decided to pursue system development skills in lieu of pursuing exam studies further.
 

Q: Can I work at home?

A: Since PensionSmart does not maintain office locations, it may be necessary to work from home between client engagements. Ideally you’ll have a workspace available in your home where you can comfortable work. But since PensionSmart revenue is based on hours billed for services provided at the client site, travel is inevitable.
 

Q: Is there a possibility of being the only PensionSmart employee at the client site?

A: Once you’ve completed training, you’ll be assigned as a shadow to another PensionSmart consultant at the client site. That consultant’s responsibilities will include providing additional training and client specific knowledge sharing. They’ll also help you learn the ropes and provide support and peer review on your assignments. You will continue to work with a PensionSmart mentor available for support, until your ready, and the need arises, for an independent assignment. However, it is most likely that client assignments involve a team of PensionSmart consultants.
 

Q: How challenging is the travel?

A: Generally, if you have good time management skills and your personal finances in are in order, traveling will not be unruly. In this age of communication, cell phones and email keep you as connected as if you sat at a desk all day. You develop an ability to adapt to and circumvent travel difficulties, learn how/what to pack, become and expert at dealing with flight delays, and how to be most comfortable and productive while traveling. You figure out how to change your current schedule to do things at the most efficient time. Some things that you do on the weekend can now be done on weeknights and vice versa. There are lots of benefits to the travel. It allows you to find a job unlike any that may be available in your area, daily client interaction, experience different cities, meet new people, and earn frequent flier rewards.
 

Q: What happens if there is no client assignments are available?

A: It takes a significant amount of time to become an expert on the product, and we expect that downtime would be utilized to enhance skills related to the product. Your manager will provide suggestions for self-study and challenges to test your skills. In addition, you may be called on to assist with marketing or internal projects.
 

Q: Is a company credit card provided?

A: A corporate credit card is offered to Employees.  Most of our employees use their own credit cards because of their different travel reward programs.  If you choose to use a personal credit card, it is important for you to have a sufficient credit limit for full time travel. If the client site is located in New York for example, this may require a $6,000+ monthly credit limit. Expenses are reimbursed quickly and directly to your bank account, so paying the balance off shouldn’t be a problem.