Benefits Counselor/Analyst I

Public School and Education Employee Retirement System of Missouri; Jefferson City (MO); Hybrid; USD 53,000 - 59,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid work options

Flexible work environment

Health Savings Account (HSA)

Dental coverage

Vision coverage

Pension plan with five-year vesting

On-site parking

Tuition assistance

Job summary

Public School and Education Employee Retirement System of Missouri is seeking a compassionate Benefits Counselor I to guide members and families through retirement, disability, and survivor benefits. You’ll analyze records, verify eligibility, and perform precise calculations while delivering counseling via phone, chat, web, and in-person meetings.

You will coordinate with internal teams, review applications, and support month-end processes, benefiting from a flexible, service-oriented

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in a business-related field
• At least two years of office experience
• Pension experience preferred
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Occasional in-state travel and a Missouri driver's license may be required

Responsibilities

• Analyze member records and verify eligibility for benefits
• Perform accurate benefit calculations and provide personalized counseling via phone, chat, web, and in-person meetings
• Review applications and coordinate with internal departments to ensure accurate processing of benefits and refunds
• Support end-of-month procedures, audit service and contribution reports, and manage deductions (e.g., IRS levies, child support)
• Identify and recover overpayments and reconcile records from external sources; assist Information Center during peak periods
• Contribute to system testing, data integrity, and process improvements while maintaining high service standards

Skills

Analytical skills

Attention to detail

Written and verbal communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in business-related field

Tools

Microsoft Office

Job description

Job Description

PSRS/PEERS is seeking a compassionate, detail-oriented professional to join our Member Services team as a Benefits Counselor I. This role offers a meaningful opportunity to support members and their families during some of life’s most pivotal moments.

As a Benefits Counselor, you’ll be a trusted guide—helping survivors navigate the complexities of retirement and survivor benefits with clarity, empathy, and confidence. If you’re someone who thrives in a service-focused environment, has a passion for helping others, and possesses a sharp eye for detail, this position could be a perfect fit. We’re looking for someone who can make complex information accessible, provide exceptional support with professionalism and care, and contribute to a team that values integrity, collaboration, and service excellence.

If you’re ready to make a difference in the lives of those we serve, we invite you to explore this rewarding opportunity.

Salary: $52,686 - $59,273

Pay within advertised range is commensurate with education and experience.

Job Type: Full-time with benefits.

Location: Jefferson City, Missouri. Hybrid work options available with limited telecommuting once trained.

About PSRS/PEERS

PSRS/PEERS is the largest defined benefit pension plan in the state of Missouri, proudly serving over 320,000 members. In partnership with Missouri’s public-school districts, we are committed to providing secure and reliable retirement benefits to the state’s dedicated educators and education employees.

Our Member Services team operates from our newly remodeled and expanded headquarters at 3210 West Truman Boulevard in Jefferson City, Missouri. Designed with both innovation and comfort in mind, our facility features state-of-the-art technology, advanced security, ergonomic workspaces, and collaborative areas that foster teamwork and productivity.

We offer a flexible, employee-friendly work environment with ample on-site parking and scheduling flexibility within our standard office hours of 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday.

Join a Mission That Matters

As a Benefits Counselor, you’ll serve as a trusted resource for members and their families—providing guidance and support during life’s most significant transitions. Whether assisting with retirement, disability, or survivor benefits, you’ll help individuals make informed decisions with confidence and care.

In this role, you’ll analyze member records, verify eligibility, and perform precise benefit calculations. You’ll deliver personalized counseling through multiple channels, including phone, chat, web sessions, and in-person meetings—ensuring each interaction reflects professionalism and empathy.

Your responsibilities will include reviewing applications, coordinating with internal departments, and ensuring accurate processing of benefits and refunds. You’ll play a key role in end-of-month procedures, audit service and contribution reports, and manage benefit deductions such as IRS levies and child support. Additionally, you’ll assist in identifying and recovering overpayments, reconciling records from external sources, and supporting our Information Center during peak periods.

This position offers a dynamic blend of analytical work, member engagement, and cross-functional collaboration. You’ll translate complex policies into clear, actionable advice, ensure compliance and accuracy in benefit delivery, and contribute to system testing, data integrity, and process improvements. As part of a team that prioritizes integrity, continuous learning, and service excellence, you’ll have the opportunity to grow professionally while making a meaningful impact.

Job Requirements

To be successful in this role, the ideal candidate will need a bachelor’s degree in a business-related field and at least two years of office experience. Pension experience is preferred, and relevant experience with PSRS/PEERS may be considered in lieu of degree.

Strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and proficiency in Microsoft Office are essential. You should be an excellent communicator, both written and verbal, and committed to delivering exceptional service. This position requires occasional in-state travel, including overnight stays, and the ability to work in an office environment with periods of focused document review and data entry. A valid Missouri driver’s license is required for use of company vehicles.

We believe in investing in our team. You’ll participate in annual professional development and attend a national conference every three years to stay current and connected in your field.

Where Support Meets Service

As Benefits Counselor, you’re not just starting a job—you’re stepping into a career with purpose, impact, and room to grow. You’ll be part of a mission-driven organization that supports Missouri’s educators and public servants, helping members and their families make informed decisions when it matters most.

From day one, you’ll gain hands‑on experience interpreting complex benefit systems, performing detailed financial calculations, and providing compassionate guidance across multiple platforms—phone, chat, web, and in-person. You’ll build expertise in pension structures, regulatory frameworks, and cross-functional collaboration with teams like Accounting, Employer Services, and Legal.

Professional development is a key part of the journey. You’ll participate in regular training, attend national conferences, and grow your skills in a supportive, service-focused environment. And as you advance, you’ll know your work truly matters—bringing clarity, care, and confidence to those navigating retirement, disability, and survivor benefits.

If you're looking for a career that combines service, strategy, and growth—this is your opportunity to thrive.

Why You’ll Love Working at PSRS/PEERS

At PSRS/PEERS, we believe in supporting our employees as much as they support our mission. We offer a flexible, employee-friendly work environment with opportunities to telecommute and maintain a healthy work-life balance. Our comprehensive benefits package includes a robust Health Savings Account (HSA), dental and vision coverage, and membership in a defined benefit pension plan that provides lifelong retirement benefits after just five years of vesting.

• Time off is generous— employees start with three weeks of paid vacation and three weeks of sick leave annually, in addition to 12 paid holidays each year.
• We also invest in your growth, offering tuition assistance, ongoing training, and professional development opportunities.
• High‑performing team members may be invited to participate in our leadership development program.
• Beyond professional development, we foster a sense of community and connection through on‑site and off‑site events, volunteer initiatives, and employee‑driven charitable efforts organized by our employee fund—creating countless ways to get involved and stay engaged.