Benefits Assessment Officer - Grade 2

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Our preferred method is online application however if you do require a hard copy application pack please contact Human Resources, Guildford Borough Council, Millmead, Guildford GU2 4BB. Telephone (01483) 444111 (24-hr). Alternatively e-mail sally.nielsen@guildford.gov.uk quoting the relevant post number. Please note that we do not accept CVs, please ensure that you complete the application form fully.

We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity. All employment decisions are made on the basis of qualifications, merit and business need. Our organisation is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults, and expects all staff and post-holders to share this commitment. To fulfil this commitment we have robust systems in place for the safe recruitment of staff and volunteers.

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We are looking for a Benefits and Local Council Tax Support assessment officer to join our team. They will help us to administer these important benefits.

If you have minimal or no experience, then we will train you. This is a good opportunity to start or return to a career in local government.

We are transitioning from a Case/Specialist operating model to a more conventional structure. The successful candidate will be a valued member of our new team.

You will help financially vulnerable residents, whilst ensuring fraud and error is minimised. Maximising the money available to help those who need help from public funds.

This role could be for you if you meet the following essential requirements:

Knowledge and Experience
• Well evidenced experience of providing good customer service
• Proven experience of working under pressure, whilst staying calm and keeping accuracy
• Awareness of data protection and confidentiality

Skills
• Able to communicate complex information effectively, both verbally and in writing
• Able to analyse information and establish next steps. Including when to escalate a case.
• Able to be accurate, detailed and professional in approach to work
• Able to provide a full response that pre-empts the next question
• Able to work both collaboratively and independently, checking in as necessary
• Able to manage own time effectively.

If you can also meet the following desirable criteria – that would be great:
• Experience of Civica OPENRevenues and Civica OPENWorkflow
• Experience of Housing Benefits processing

We expect the successful candidate to:
• Follow legislation and local processes
• Analyse the situation in front of them, work out and action the next steps
• Deliver high levels of customer service alongside prompt and accurate assessment of claims.
• Be a supportive colleague.

In return we offer:
• A friendly and supportive environment
• Training as appropriate
• Annual leave entitlement of 22 days
• Access to our flexible working scheme, pension scheme and pleasant working environment near to the town centre.

This role is classed as Agile. You will need to be in the office full time during any initial training period. After that the successful candidate will be able to work from home part of the working week on a rota basis with colleagues. Our usual office/home working split is 50/50.

A basic DBS check will be required upon appointment.

If you are interested in this busy and varied role, please apply online.

For an informal chat about the role, please contact Carene Alexander (Team Leader Revenues and Benefits) on 01483 444879