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Benefits Counselor Jobs in Raleigh, NC (NOW HIRING)

Retirement Plan Counselor

Raleigh, NC · On-site +1

$59K - $84K/yr

The Counselor leverages Empower's industry leading technology and tools to drive positive results ... What we offer you We offer an array of diverse and inclusive benefits regardless of where you are ...

Disclaimer: Perks and Benefit eligibility is based on Part-Time or Full-Time Employment status ... Provide individual and group counseling of NC State students/clients (personal, academic, and ...

Upper School Counselor new grads accepted Location: Oxford, NC Job Type: Full-Time Schedule: Monday ... Benefits: NC State Health Plan insurance. Lincoln Investment 403(b) Retirement Plan. Annual staff ...

New

ReEntry Counselor - Full Time - Wake County Join a supportive team who values Compassion ... Benefits Being a part of a non-profit behavioral health organization has some unique benefits ...

ReEntry Counselor - Full Time - Wake County Join a supportive team who values Compassion ... Benefits Being a part of a non-profit behavioral health organization has some unique benefits ...

Disclaimer: Perks and Benefit eligibility is based on Part-Time or Full-Time Employment status ... Provide individual and group counseling of NC State students/clients (personal, academic, and ...

Counselor

Durham, NC · On-site

$45K - $73K/yr

Counselor Position in Duke Wilmington Office Re: Housing Information Specialist Candidate will be ... retirement benefits, and a wide array of family-friendly and cultural programs to eligible team ...

Substance Abuse Counselor

Durham, NC · On-site

$21.50 - $29/hr

Comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, vision and 401(K) * Generous paid time off and paid holidays * Excellent growth and development opportunities through our counselor career ...

Counselor

Durham, NC · On-site

$45K - $73K/yr

Counselor Position in Duke Wilmington Office Re: Housing Information Specialist Candidate will be ... retirement benefits, and a wide array of family-friendly and cultural programs to eligible team ...

Counselor

Durham, NC

$45K - $73K/yr

Counselor Position in Duke Wilmington Office Re: Housing Information Specialist Candidate will be ... retirement benefits, and a wide array of family-friendly and cultural programs to eligible team ...

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Benefits Counselor information

See Raleigh, NC salary details

$13

$22

$28

How much do benefits counselor jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for benefits counselor in Raleigh, NC is $22.40, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.34 and $24.52 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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.

Do you need a degree to be a benefits advisor?

Benefits counselors typically do not require a college degree, but having a high school diploma or equivalent is usually necessary. Relevant skills such as knowledge of benefits programs, communication, and customer service are important, and some employers may prefer or require certifications or training in benefits administration.

How to become a benefits counselor?

To become a benefits counselor, typically one needs a high school diploma or equivalent, with some roles requiring a bachelor's degree in social work, psychology, or a related field. Relevant skills include strong communication, knowledge of benefits programs, and sometimes certification or training in benefits administration or counseling. Gaining experience through internships or entry-level positions can also be helpful for career advancement.

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 does a benefits counselor do?

A benefits counselor helps individuals understand and navigate available social, health, and insurance benefits. They assess clients' needs, explain eligibility requirements, and assist with applications, often working in government agencies or healthcare settings. Strong communication skills and knowledge of benefit programs are essential for this role.

Which type of counselor gets paid most?

In the counseling field, mental health counselors and substance abuse counselors tend to have higher average salaries compared to other counseling roles. Factors such as advanced certifications, experience, and working in private practice or specialized settings can also influence earning potential for counselors.

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.

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 are popular job titles related to Benefits Counselor jobs in Raleigh, NC? For Benefits Counselor jobs in Raleigh, NC, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Benefits Counselor jobs in Raleigh, NC look for? The top searched job categories for Benefits Counselor jobs in Raleigh, NC are:
What cities near Raleigh, NC are hiring for Benefits Counselor jobs? Cities near Raleigh, NC with the most Benefits Counselor job openings:
Infographic showing various Benefits Counselor job openings in Raleigh, NC as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 79% Full Time, and 21% Part Time. Highlights an 79% In-person, 14% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,582 per year, or $22.4 per hour.

Retirement Plan Counselor

Empower

Raleigh, NC • On-site, Remote

$59K - $84K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 6 days ago


Job description

Our vision for the future is based on the idea that transforming financial lives starts by giving our people the freedom to transform their own. We have a flexible work environment, and fluid career paths. We not only encourage but celebrate internal mobility. We also recognize the importance of purpose, well-being, and work-life balance. Within Empower and our communities, we work hard to create a welcoming and inclusive environment, and our associates dedicate thousands of hours to volunteering for causes that matter most to them.

Chart your own path and grow your career while helping more customers achieve financial freedom. Empower Yourself.

The Retirement Plan Counselor is responsible for creating opportunities and delivering on-site and virtual retirement plan education to North Carolina state and local government employees and educators. The Counselor leverages Empower's industry leading technology and tools to drive positive results and help employees strive for a successful retirement. This position will also assist the Relationship Management team in effectively establishing and maintaining relationships with key stakeholders within the territory assigned.

This Counselor will work with public employees in the Raleigh, NC area and must be based in this territory.

What you will do

  • Develop and facilitate communication and education strategies by conducting one-on-one virtual and on-site group meeting by using various technologies in a professional manner

  • Drive participants to take measurable actions to improve their retirement outcomes including plan enrollment, deferral increases, and rollovers from previous plans

  • Achieve business results and facilitate impactful conversations while meeting service level agreements

  • Consistently complete reporting requirements within required timeframes including logging meetings, attendees and outcomes in appropriate systems

  • Build strong relationships with assigned key contacts, plan sponsor representatives and internal stakeholders to maximize successful participant outcomes

  • Manage meeting schedule, including travel booking

  • Provide feedback to local relationship managers about the effectiveness of communication materials/strategies and assist in identifying alternatives

  • Attend client meetings with other service team members

  • May be asked to participate in finals presentations for new prospects based on the demands of the territory

What you will bring

  • Bachelor's degree and or equivalent experience considered in lieu of a degree

  • 2 - 4 years relevant financial services experience

  • Strong presentation skills required

  • Proficiency in MS Word, Excel, PowerPoint and Teams required

  • Strong relationship building and territory management skills

  • FINRA Series 6 and Series 63 registrations required

  • FINRA fingerprinting required

What will set you apart

  • Working knowledge of Salesforce preferred

  • Ability to calculate figures such as interest, proportions, percentages, and fractions required

  • Strategic thinker who can work independently

  • Practical experience providing high-level, consultative client interactions preferred

  • Basic knowledge of defined contribution plans preferred

#PJRPA

***Applicants must be authorized to work for any employer in the U.S. We are unable to sponsor or take over sponsorship of an employment visa at this time, including CPT/OPT.***

What we offer you

We offer an array of diverse and inclusive benefits regardless of where you are in your career. We believe that providing our employees with the means to lead healthy balanced lives results in the best possible work performance.

  • Medical, dental, vision and life insurance
  • Retirement savings - 401(k) plan with generous company matching contributions (up to 6%), financial advisory services, potential company discretionary contribution, and a broad investment lineup
  • Tuition reimbursement up to $5,250/year
  • Business-casual environment that includes the option to wear jeans
  • Generous paid time off upon hire - including a paid time off program plus ten paid company holidays and three floating holidays each calendar year
  • Paid volunteer time - 16 hours per calendar year
  • Leave of absence programs - including paid parental leave, paid short- and long-term disability, and Family and Medical Leave (FMLA)
  • Business Resource Groups (BRGs) - BRGs facilitate inclusion and collaboration across our business internally and throughout the communities where we live, work and play. BRGs are open to all.

Base Salary Range

$59,700.00 - $84,300.00

The salary range above shows the typical minimum to maximum base salary range for this position in the location listed. Non-sales positions have the opportunity to participate in a bonus program. Sales positions are eligible for sales incentives, and in some instances a bonus plan, whereby total compensation may far exceed base salary depending on individual performance. Actual compensation offered may vary from posted hiring range based upon geographic location, work experience, education, licensure requirements and/or skill level and will be finalized at the time of offer.

Equal opportunity employer Drug-free workplace

We are an equal opportunity employer with a commitment to diversity. All individuals, regardless of personal characteristics, are encouraged to apply. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age (40 and over), race, color, national origin, ancestry, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, gender expression, marital status, pregnancy, religion, physical or mental disability, military or veteran status, genetic information, or any other status protected by applicable state or local law.

***For remote and hybrid positions you will be required to provide reliable high-speed internet with a wired connection as well as a place in your home to work with limited disruption. You must have reliable connectivity from an internet service provider that is fiber, cable or DSL internet. Other necessary computer equipment, will be provided. You may be required to work in the office if you do not have an adequate home work environment and the required internet connection.***

Job Posting End Date at 12:01 am on:

08-15-2026

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