Connextions, part of the Optum™ health services business of UnitedHealth Group (NYSE: UNH), announced it will fill approximately 500 new jobs in Phoenix in the next 60 days.

Connextions, which helps carriers enroll, retain and provide service to their members, has already begun hiring people to work in its new solution center in Phoenix. These Engagement Specialists will help seniors and other beneficiaries understand their Medicare and prescription drug benefits options so they can evaluate, enroll in and effectively use the plans that best meet their needs. Connextions will also hire management and staff-level positions.

On Aug. 27, Connextions and the City of Phoenix will hold a job fair at Connextions’ new facility, where people can learn more about the available positions. The job fair will take place from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at 4809 E. Thistle Landing, Suite 110, in Ahwatukee.

“Health care decisions can be very complex and personal, and we are committed to helping consumers understand their health plan options and how best to use their benefits,” said Steve Auerbach, Connextions president. “We are very excited about providing these services from Phoenix, where we know we will be able to find the compassionate and skilled individuals needed to help consumers manage their health and wellness.”

“I’m pleased that Connextions recognizes the high-quality workforce and business-friendly climate we have created here in Arizona over the past five years,” said Arizona Gov. Jan Brewer. “Health care is an important and growing part of our economy, and we are well-positioned to bring good jobs like this to our state. I am thrilled to welcome them to Phoenix.”

Connextions, headquartered in Orlando, Fla., has more than 8,000 employees at sites in North Carolina, Indiana, Colorado, Rhode Island and Texas. The new Phoenix facility is the company’s first in Arizona. Connextions anticipates additional employment opportunities in Phoenix before the end of 2013.

“The Seventh Congressional District is the economic heart of Arizona,” said Rep. Ed Pastor, D-Ariz. “I’m pleased to welcome Connextions to Phoenix, and I know that they will find a workforce well-suited to helping guide consumers through their health benefits choices.”

“Connextions’ decision to invest in Phoenix is a testament to our talented workforce and our competitiveness in attracting new businesses to our region,” Phoenix Mayor Greg Stanton said. “We welcome the jobs Connextions will bring and its support in making Phoenix a destination for innovative and sustainable health care solutions.”

People interested in working in the fast-growing health care industry are encouraged to apply at www.jobs.Connextions.com.

The new jobs will bring UnitedHealth Group’s total number of employees in Arizona to approximately 4,600. UnitedHealth Group serves the health care needs of nearly 1.6 million Arizonans.