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Benefit Program Specialist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Title Description- Benefit Programs Specialist II represents the full-performance level in the ... program availability; * Refers clients to service worker as the result of overall assessment of ...

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Benefit Program Specialist information

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$27K

$68K

$121.5K

How much do benefit program specialist jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for benefit program specialist in the United States is $68,012.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $46,500.00 and $86,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a benefit program specialist?

Benefit Program Specialists are professionals who evaluate and administer public assistance programs, such as food stamps, Medicaid, or welfare. They help individuals and families navigate the eligibility process, collect and verify documentation, and ensure compliance with state and federal regulations. Their role involves interviewing clients, processing applications, and providing information about available benefits. Benefit Program Specialists are often employed by government agencies or social service organizations, working directly with the community to provide essential support.

What are some typical challenges a benefit program specialist faces when managing multiple client cases?

Benefit Program Specialists often juggle a high volume of cases, each with unique client needs and deadlines. Balancing accuracy and efficiency while ensuring compliance with evolving policies can be challenging. Effective time management, strong organizational skills, and the ability to adapt quickly to policy changes are crucial. Collaboration with colleagues and clear communication with clients also help navigate these challenges and maintain quality service.

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

To thrive as a Benefit Program Specialist, you need a solid understanding of public assistance programs, eligibility determination, and relevant regulations, often supported by a degree in social work or a related field. Familiarity with case management software, government databases, and documentation systems is typically required. Strong attention to detail, communication, and problem-solving skills help specialists engage effectively with clients and manage complex cases. These skills are crucial for ensuring accurate service delivery, regulatory compliance, and positive client outcomes.

What is the difference between Benefit Program Specialist vs Benefits Coordinator?

AspectBenefit Program SpecialistBenefits Coordinator
CredentialsTypically requires a bachelor’s degree in HR, business, or related fieldUsually requires similar education, often with HR or benefits certifications
Work EnvironmentWorks in HR departments, insurance companies, or corporate settingsWorks in HR or benefits departments, often in corporate or healthcare settings
Employer & Industry UsageCommon in large organizations, insurance firms, and government agenciesCommon in corporate HR teams, healthcare providers, and insurance companies
Search & Comparison IntentOften compared for roles managing employee benefits programsOften compared for roles coordinating benefits administration

The Benefit Program Specialist and Benefits Coordinator roles share similar educational backgrounds and work environments, often within HR departments of large organizations or insurance firms. While both focus on employee benefits, the Benefit Program Specialist typically develops and manages benefits programs, whereas the Benefits Coordinator handles day-to-day benefits administration and employee inquiries.

Do you need a degree to be a benefit program specialist?

A benefit program specialist typically does not require a specific degree, but relevant education such as a bachelor's in human resources, social services, or related fields can be advantageous. Employers often value experience, knowledge of benefit programs, and strong communication skills over formal education. Certifications in benefits administration or related areas can also enhance job prospects.

How much does a benefit program specialist make?

The average salary for a benefit program specialist is around $50,000 to $65,000 per year, depending on experience, education, and location. In North Carolina, salaries typically range from $45,000 to $60,000 annually, with higher pay for those with specialized skills or certifications in benefits administration.

What does a benefit program specialist do?

A benefit program specialist manages and administers employee benefit plans such as health insurance, retirement plans, and wellness programs. They ensure compliance with regulations, communicate benefits to employees, and handle enrollment and inquiries, often using benefits administration software. Strong organizational and communication skills are essential for this role.
More about Benefit Program Specialist jobs

Who are the top companies hiring for Benefit Program Specialist jobs?

The top employers for Benefit Program Specialist jobs are:

What states have the most Benefit Program Specialist jobs?

States with the most job openings for Benefit Program Specialist jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Benefit Program Specialist jobs?

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

Infographic showing various Benefit Program Specialist job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, and 15% Part Time. Highlights an 85% In-person, 5% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $68,012 per year, or $32.7 per hour.

Benefit Program Specialist

Jackson, MS • On-site

State of Mississippi
Executive Offices and Legislative Bodies • 10K+ employees

$28K - $48K/yr

Full-time

Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 5 days ago


State Of Mississippi rating

5.9

Company rating: 5.9 out of 10

Based on 23 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

50th of 50 rated states


Job description

Salary: $28,542.30 - $48,700.31 Annually
Location : 25 - HINDS COUNTY, MS
Job Type: Full-Time
Job Number: 9777-0681-20260903hind
Department: 0681 - CHILD PROTECTION SERVICES
Opening Date: 09/04/2026
Closing Date: 9/11/2026 11:59 PM Central
Agency Minimum Salary: $28,542.30
Agency Maximum Salary: $48,700.31
About the Agency: The Mississippi Department of Child Protection Services has a position available within the County Field Offices providing support to the Field Office Supervisory Staff with the Eligibility Unit. The Mississippi Department of Child Protection Services (MDCPS) is committed to protecting and nurturing Mississippi's at-risk children and families. MDCPS offers a variety of positions statewide, including social work positions providing case management services and working with potential foster families, supervisor positions providing clinical and administrative support, and agency support positions such as policy development, human resources, information technology, program management, training, and budgeting/finance. Working with MDCPS will give you the chance to make a life-changing difference for Mississippi's most vulnerable children and families. . If you have any additional questions, you can contact Touya Harrington of Workforce Development at 601-301-8494 or touya.harrington@mdcps.ms.gov
About the Position: The person in this position will serve as a central point of contact in the Eligibility Unit for the county office staff to provide necessary information needed to make a IV-E & Medicaid Eligibility determination for children in foster care. Specialists must review and assess paperwork to determine if a child is eligible for IV-E funding based on federal policies.Additional responsibilities include but are not limited to: accurately entering eligibility information into the child welfare system; reading and comprehending the policy manual and obtaining a general working knowledge of Eligibility policies and procedures; keeping abreast of policy updates and changes; assisting county staff with questions and concerns.
What you'll need to be Successful: Well-organized, pays close attention to detail, has great time & case management skills, has knowledge working with Microsoft Excel & Adobe, data entry & customer service experience, must be able to work well under pressure
Preferred Qualifications: Typically requires a Bachelor's Degree and 0-2 years of experience OR an Associate's Degree and 2-3 years of experience.
No available description
Health/Prescription InsuranceEligible employees have the opportunity to participate in the state's health and prescription insurance program. Employees may select either single or family coverage with affordable co-payments. More detail can be found at Know Your Benefits.
Wellness Benefits
Employees are eligible for a wellness and health promotion program. This plan provides annual benefits for certain services with first-dollar coverage with no deductible.
Life Insurance
All eligible employees receive an actual term life insurance policy upon employment. The policy coverage is two times the employee's annual salary to a maximum of $100,000. More detail can be found at Life Insurance Choices.
Optional Insurances
Many agencies offer discounted premiums for dental, vision, and cancer insurance.
Flexible Spending Accounts
Many state agencies provide opportunity for employees to participate in pre-tax spending accounts. These accounts allow employees to withhold childcare expenses and unreimbursed medical expenses prior to application of state and federal taxes.
Paid Personal Leave and Sick LeaveFull-time employees receive paid time off for personal needs and for sick leave. Leave begins accruing after one month of employment and may be used as it is accrued. Employees earn approximately 18 days of personal leave annually and 12 days of sick leave annually.
Military Leave
In accordance with federal law, all employees serving in the armed forces or the military reserves are entitled to 15 days per year for military training.
Holidays
Employees receive up to 10 paid holidays to enjoy many of our nation's celebrations with family and friends.
Retirement Programs
The State of Mississippi provides all its employees a Defined Benefit/Defined Contribution Retirement Program. Employees become vested in the State's retirement system after 8 years of employment. Both you and your employing agency contribute toward your retirement. More detailed information regarding the State's retirement program can be found at http://www.pers.state.ms.us
Deferred Compensation
State agencies offer several opportunities for their employees to participate in a deferred compensation voluntary retirement savings plan. More information can be found at Deferred Compensation.
State Credit Union
All state employees are eligible to participate in the Mississippi Public Employees' Credit Union. This organization offers state employees special savings and borrowing plans. For more information about this program, call 601.948.8191.
Tuition Reimbursement
Many state agencies provide opportunities for their employees to achieve higher education through tuition reimbursement. Common programs include medical and nursing fields, accounting, and business/administrative fields.
Career Development and Training
The Mississippi State Personnel Board offers several management and administrative certification programs, as well as professional development courses to enhance employee value to the agency. Individual agencies also offer technical training and allow membership in professional organizations to employees in their specific fields of employment.
Promotional Opportunities
Employees who have completed 6 or more months of service are eligible for promotional opportunities within state government employment. Minimum qualifications must be met.
Career Ladders
Many job classifications provide career-ladder opportunities based upon attainment of competencies. These career ladders can increase an individual's salary, provided funds are available within the agency.
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How many years of related experience do you have? (Refer to the job posting for an explanation of related experience.)
  • No experience
  • 1 year of experience
  • 2 years of experience
  • 3 years of experience
  • 4 years of experience
  • 5 years of experience
  • 6 years of experience
  • 7 years of experience
  • 8 years of experience
  • 9 years of experience
  • 10 years of experience
  • More than 10 years

02
What is the highest level of education (or semester hours of college) you have completed?
  • 8th grade
  • GED or High School Equivalency Diploma / High School Diploma
  • 30 semester hours
  • Associate's Degree / 60 semester hours
  • 90 semester hours
  • Bachelor's Degree
  • Master's Degree
  • Specialist Degree
  • Doctorate Degree
  • 9th grade
  • 10th grade
  • 11th grade

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About State of Mississippi

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Transparency in Mississippi Government is a concerted effort to provide visibility, openness, and accessibility to state government financial activity for Mississippi taxpayers as mandated by the State Legislature. As part of our continuing effort to set new standards for transparency and accountability in state government, the Department of Finance and Administration now provides access to a variety of financial data that is updated regularly. Revenue, expenditures, payments to city and county governments, contracts, and travel expenses are updated daily. Workforce information is updated monthly. Some of the expenditure data is considered private or protected under state and federal laws. If a payee/vendor/customer name is protected by law, the vendor name will be displayed as 'Confidential' throughout the queries.

Industry

Executive offices and legislative bodies

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Jackson, MS, US