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Benefit Counselor Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Benefits Counselor

Denver, CO · On-site

$30 - $36.50/hr

In this role, counselors will guide employees through various benefits programs and available ... Benefit administration login and password resets * Enrollment assistance * Training in client ...

Benefits Counselor

Buffalo, NY · On-site

$30 - $32/hr

Represent client on-site at client benefit fairs, wellness expos, and open enrollment presentations. * Conduct "soft-sell" consultations by greeting prospective and current plan members, explaining ...

Showing results 21-40

Benefit Counselor information

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$14

$23

$29

How much do benefit counselor jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for benefit counselor in the United States is $23.04, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.91 and $25.24 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a benefit counselor?

Benefit Counselors are professionals who assist employees in understanding and selecting their workplace benefits, such as health insurance, retirement plans, and other employee perks. They help individuals navigate complex benefits options, explain plan details, and answer questions about enrollment and eligibility. Benefit Counselors often work for insurance companies, third-party administrators, or directly with employers, providing one-on-one or group guidance during open enrollment periods and throughout the year. Their goal is to ensure employees make informed decisions about their benefits, leading to better utilization and satisfaction.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a benefit counselor, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Benefit Counselor, you need a solid understanding of employee benefits programs, insurance policies, and enrollment processes, often supported by relevant experience or a degree in human resources or a related field. Familiarity with benefits administration software, HRIS systems, and sometimes state licensing for insurance is typically required. Outstanding interpersonal skills, attention to detail, and the ability to clearly explain complex information are crucial soft skills for this role. These skills ensure accurate benefits administration, regulatory compliance, and clear communication that helps employees make informed decisions about their benefits.

How does a benefit counselor typically collaborate with HR teams and employees during open enrollment periods?

During open enrollment periods, Benefit Counselors work closely with HR teams to organize informational sessions, address specific employee questions, and ensure clear communication about available benefits options. They often conduct one-on-one or group meetings with employees to guide them through plan selections and explain complex benefits details. This collaboration helps streamline the enrollment process and ensures that employees make informed decisions while relieving HR staff from handling all benefits inquiries directly.

What is the difference between Benefit Counselor vs Benefits Coordinator?

AspectBenefit CounselorBenefits Coordinator
CredentialsTypically requires health insurance, social work, or counseling certificationsOften requires HR or benefits administration certifications or degrees
Work EnvironmentConsults with clients, provides guidance on benefits options, often in healthcare or insurance settingsManages benefits programs, processes enrollments, and maintains employee benefit records
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in healthcare, insurance, and social services sectorsCommon in HR departments across various industries
Search & Comparison IntentPeople compare to understand counseling roles in benefitsPeople compare to distinguish administrative benefits roles

The main difference is that Benefit Counselors focus on advising clients about benefits options, often requiring counseling skills and certifications. Benefits Coordinators handle the administrative side, managing benefits programs and enrollments within organizations. Both roles are essential in the benefits industry but serve different functions.

More about Benefit Counselor jobs

What cities are hiring for Benefit Counselor jobs?

Cities with the most Benefit Counselor job openings:

What states have the most Benefit Counselor jobs?

States with the most job openings for Benefit Counselor jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Benefit Counselor jobs?

For Benefit Counselor jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Benefit Counselor job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 70% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 29% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,923 per year, or $23 per hour.

Benefit Counselor/Enroller (UNIONS) - Per diem, Seattle WA

Seattle, WA • On-site

Employee Family Protection
Human Resources Consulting Services • 11 - 50 employees

Contractor, Per diem

Medical, Life

Re-posted 26 days ago


Job description

Description

Position Summary:

The Benefit Counselor educates union members about voluntary benefit plans, communicates available programs to eligible members, and members in elected benefits through various enrollment platforms. The position offers a flexible schedule, paid travel, training, and a per day contract rate.

Essential Functions:

1. Actively participate in case, enrollment, product, and systems training. Through face-to-face, telephonic Benefit Center, and/or web, educate union members about  benefit programs. Communicate available  benefit programs to eligible members.

2. Enroll members in elected programs through web site and/or electronic enrollment system. 

3. Accurately and thoroughly complete and submit all applications in compliance with data entry and data privacy policies and regulations.  

4. Conduct all business and actions according to highest possible standards or professional conduct.  Maintain confidences and protect confidential and proprietary information obtained in the course of employment.


Requirements

Educational Requirements:

High school diploma required. 

Active state life and health insurance license required.

Experience Requirements:

  • Insurance background and/or voluntary benefits experience strongly preferred.
  • Computer skills, including experience with and knowledge of, Microsoft Word, Excel, and Outlook; Internet Explorer; Adobe Acrobat; databases; and web-based contact management systems.  
  • Ability to think critically and act logically to evaluate situations, solve problems and make recommendations. 
  • Reliable, professional, attention to detail, able to work with diverse group of clients and staff, ability to work in fast-paced team environment, and flexibility to manage changing parameters and timelines.
  • Develop and maintain positive relationships with and provide excellent customer service to all.