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Benefits Counselor Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Medix

Benefits Counselor

Buffalo, NY · On-site

$30 - $32/hr

Job Summary Our client is seeking a Benefits Counselor to represent their interests in various client benefit fairs, wellness expos, and open enrollment presentations. The primary responsibilities ...

Medix

Benefits Counselor

Denver, CO · On-site

$30 - $36.50/hr

In this role, counselors will guide employees through various benefits programs and available services. While counselors play a key role during open enrollment, their responsibilities are expanding ...

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Benefits Counselor information

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How much do benefits counselor jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for benefits 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 benefits counselor?

A Benefits Counselor is a professional who helps individuals understand and navigate their employee benefits, such as health insurance, retirement plans, and other workplace perks. They provide guidance on choosing the best benefit options, explain coverage details, and assist with enrollment or claims processes. Benefits Counselors often work for employers, insurance companies, or independent agencies, ensuring employees make informed decisions about their benefits packages. They may also answer questions about eligibility, changes in coverage, and help resolve any issues related to benefits.

What is a benefits counselor?

A benefits counselor manages the employee benefits program within a company or organization. As a benefits counselor, your job duties may include designing and administering the program to ensure employee and company needs are met, as well as educating and assisting employees in benefits enrollment activities. The career requires a thorough understanding of health care benefits, including medical, dental, and life insurance, as well as knowledge of relevant regulations and legislation. Depending on the work environment, benefits counselors may also need to be familiar with other incentives like 401(k), pensions, and stock ownership. Additional qualifications include a bachelor’s degree in a related field like human resources or business administration, strong communication skills, and relevant work experience.

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

During open enrollment, Benefits Counselors work closely with HR teams to ensure employees have the information and support they need to make informed decisions about their benefits. They often conduct informational sessions, answer individual questions, and help employees understand the details of various health, retirement, and supplemental benefit plans. Counselors also assist in resolving any issues or concerns that arise and help facilitate the enrollment process, ensuring compliance with company policies and legal requirements.

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

To thrive as a Benefits Counselor, you need a solid understanding of employee benefits programs, insurance products, and relevant regulations, typically supported by a bachelor’s degree in human resources or a related field. Familiarity with HRIS platforms, benefits administration systems, and sometimes state insurance licensing is important for managing and communicating plan details. Strong interpersonal skills, active listening, and clear communication help build trust with clients and explain complex information effectively. These skills ensure accurate benefits guidance, regulatory compliance, and a positive experience for employees navigating their benefits options.

What is the difference between Benefits Counselor vs Benefits Specialist?

AspectBenefits CounselorBenefits Specialist
CredentialsTypically requires a bachelor's degree in social work, psychology, or related field; certifications like Certified Benefits Counselor (CBC) are commonUsually requires a bachelor's degree in human resources, social sciences, or related field; certifications like Certified Employee Benefits Specialist (CEBS) are advantageous
Work EnvironmentOften works directly with clients in community agencies, healthcare settings, or government programsPrimarily works within HR departments, insurance companies, or corporate settings
Employer & IndustryNonprofit organizations, government agencies, healthcare providersCorporations, insurance firms, HR consulting firms

Benefits Counselors focus on assisting individuals with understanding and accessing benefits programs, often working directly with clients. Benefits Specialists typically handle the administration and management of employee benefits within organizations. While both roles require knowledge of benefits systems and certifications, their work environments and client interactions differ.

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Benefits Counselor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Benefits Counselor job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,923 per year, or $23 per hour.

Benefits Counselor

Norfolk, VA • On-site

Senior Services of Southeastern Virginia
Individual, Family and Community Social Assistance • 51 - 200 employees
Learn more about Senior Services of Southeastern Virginiaexternal

$19.08/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 10 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Provide individualized counseling to clients about Medicare, Medicaid, and Supplemental Nutrition Assistance benefits through in-person, telephone, or virtual sessions.

  • Assist clients with applications for Medicaid and SNAP, and respond to complex inquiries related to benefit eligibility, enrollment, appeals, and claims.

  • Conduct community outreach and educational presentations to promote benefit enrollment and collaborate with organizations to expand outreach efforts.

Job description

Description

 Counsel older adults, persons with disabilities, and caregivers primarily about Medicare, Medicaid and Supplement Nutrition Assistance benefits options and assist with applications. Counseling is provided during one-to-one sessions conducted in person, by telephone, or via virtual platforms such as Teams or Zoom, as well as at community events and group presentations. Educates the public during presentations and events. Collaborates with other agencies and organizations to obtain referrals. Travels to locations throughout Senior Services coverage area, with a special focus on Western Tidewater including Isle of Wight and Southampton counties, Franklin, and Suffolk. Specialized training and certification will be provided. Work is performed under the general supervision of the Director of In-Home Services in conjunction with the Benefits Team Leader.

Requirements

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

Client Counseling & Benefits Assistance

  • Provide individualized counseling, in person, by telephone, or via virtual platforms, to assist clients in understanding and selecting appropriate medical, prescription drug, and related benefit coverage.
  • Assist with Medicaid and Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program applications.
  • Research and respond to complex inquiries related to benefit eligibility, enrollment, appeals, and claims.
  • Refer clients to appropriate internal programs and external community resources, as needed.

Data Collection, Documentation & Reporting

  • Gather, verify, and enter detailed confidential health, demographic, and income information into secure, web-based systems.
  • Maintain timely, accurate, and complete electronic client records in accordance with agency, grant, and regulatory requirements.
  • Compile and submit required monthly and periodic reports.

Outreach, Education & Community Engagement

  • Conduct group presentations and participate in community outreach events to promote benefit enrollment, education, and fraud prevention.
  • Collaborate with businesses, health and social service agencies, and civic and faith-based organizations to expand outreach to Medicare, Medicaid, and Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program beneficiaries.

Program Support, Training & Professional Development

  • Participate in required trainings, meetings, and conferences to obtain and maintain certification 

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

Knowledge of counseling techniques. 

Knowledge of Medicare, Medicaid, Supplemental Nutrition programs and community resources. 

Knowledge of HIPAA privacy and security guidelines as it relates to Protected Health Information.

Detail oriented with strong organizational skills.

Excellent research skills

Excellent communication and people skills. 

Able to work well independently in a fast-paced environment but also must be flexible and willing to work as part of a team. 

Demonstrated proficiency in the use of the internet, databases, spreadsheets, word processing, and ability to learn other software currently used by the agency. 

Hybrid position with 1 office days upon completion of training

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

High School diploma or equivalent (GED) required. Associate or bachelor's degree preferred.

Experience in customer service by phone and in person, to include daily use of computers to complete work tasks. 

Experience in public speaking and/or leading educational events. 

Nonprofit organization experience preferred. 

Certified Benefits Counselor designation within 90 days of position acceptance. Agency provides training and assistance to candidate. 

Acceptable criminal background check.

Valid driver's license, auto insurance, and acceptable driving record.

Note: Licensed insurance brokers are not eligible for hire. Individuals would need to surrender their license prior to starting employment with Senior Services.

WORKING ENVIRONMENT 

This position is a hybrid role that includes both office-based and community-based work. Following completion of training, the Benefits Counselor will work a combination of scheduled office days and remote work, with flexibility based on program needs and client demand. The role requires regular local travel to community sites, partner organizations, outreach events, and client locations within the service area. Work is primarily performed in professional office settings, community centers, and public meeting spaces, as well as from a remote workspace when approved. The position involves extended periods of computer use, virtual meetings, and telephone communication, as well as occasional evening or weekend hours to support outreach events or enrollment periods.

Disclaimer: This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of all activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee. From time to time, the supervisor will ask the job holder to perform additional duties related to the completion of the work.

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