Location: Hybrid (predominantly remote with occasional office presence) Walsall.
Salary: £18.53 per hour (PAYE), £25.12 per hour (Umbrella).
Contract Length: Until the end of March 2025.
Job Description:
As a Benefits Officer, you will be responsible for supporting the assessment, payment, and recovery of housing and council tax benefits. You will provide advice and assistance to customers and stakeholders, both in person and through various communication methods, while ensuring compliance with legislation, government performance standards, and client policies.
You will play a key role in delivering a responsive and progressive service to benefit customers, contributing to the continuous improvement of performance in benefit administration.
Accountabilities:
- Assist in delivering a high-quality, customer-focused service to achieve key targets.
- Process benefit applications, report changes, and notify claimants of their results.
- Identify potential fraud and refer cases to the Investigation Team.
- Liaise with internal departments and external agencies, including the Citizens Advice Bureau and DWP.
- Provide comprehensive advice and handle detailed correspondence, telephone calls, and personal visits.
- Maintain and monitor systems to ensure client standards are met.
- Process complex cases, including exemptions, backdate requests, and Rent Officer referrals.
- Support effective communication within the team and contribute to ad hoc projects.
Requirements:
- Relevant experience in Housing Benefit and Council Tax rebate assessment.
- Strong customer service experience with a focus on understanding and meeting customer needs.
- Extensive knowledge and experience in benefit legislation and procedures.
- Strong numerical and financial calculation skills.Proficiency in using NEC systems (formerly Northgate and Sx3).
- Ability to process complex benefit applications and identify potential overpayments.
- Experience using various computer systems to manage and update customer records.
- Ability to work independently, manage your own workload, and meet deadlines.Knowledge of welfare benefits and the ability to signpost customers where necessary.
Company Overview:
A trusted and UKAS ISO9001 accredited leader in the recruitment industry. Providing comprehensive recruitment solutions across more than 20 diverse industries. Specializing in both temporary and permanent placements, as a modern and innovative organization, we leverage our valuable experience and adhere to a strict set of core values throughout our recruitment processes. Our commitment to excellence, integrity, and professionalism ensures that we consistently exceed expectations and build long-lasting relationships with both clients and all staff.
Equal Opportunity Employer:
Optima Plus Recruitment is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing an inclusive and diverse workplace. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy and gender identity), national origin, political affiliation, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, genetic information, age, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.
We actively encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds and strive to eliminate barriers to employment. If you require accommodations during the recruitment process, please let us know, and we will work with you to meet your needs.
How to Apply:
If you are passionate about delivering high-quality service and want to be part of a supportive and dynamic team, apply now by submitting your CV and cover letter.
Application Deadline: 28th October 2024
Interview Process: Interviews will be conducted via Microsoft Teams for shortlisted candidates