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Housing Benefit Officer

Job description

Job Title: Housing Benefit Officer

On behalf of our Client, the Northern Ireland Housing Executive, MPA Recruitment welcomes suitable applications for the role of Housing Benefit Officer in the Belfast Area.

Location: Adelaide Street, Belfast.

Hours of work: 37 hours per week (Monday to Friday: 09.00am to 5pm)

Salary range: £10.98

Closing Date: 14th November 2023

Main Duties:

  • Assess Housing Benefit applications as directed by the Team Leader.

  • Makes decisions based on the interpretation of Housing Benefit Regulations and guidance within the limits of delegated authority.

  • Deal with queries by telephone or in person from HB customers.

  • Action HB reports as required for authorisation by the Team Leader.

  • Complete Searchlight checks and utilise other government systems to ensure accurate HB assessments.

  • Work as part of a team and individually to achieve KPIs.

  • Prepare write off submissions.

  • Maintain electronic records and systems.

  • Provide support to junior staff and prepare rotas to ensure service cover.

  • Assist in the recovery of Housing Benefit overpayments.

  • Assist with fraud prevention.

  • Management of Housing Benefit Projects, Mailbox management, claimant E-mail, drive project work, a range of Admin Work for the Team.

 

Experience and Qualifications

 

Essential:

Possess one of the following:

  • A Levels or equivalent level qualification and can demonstrate 1 year of relevant experience.

  • 5 GCSEs or equivalent level qualification to include Maths and English at grade C or above and can demonstrate at least 2 years of relevant experience.

  • Exceptionally, candidates not holding the above level of qualifications but with 3 years of relevant experience with evidence of training/learning in Housing Benefit related matters may also be considered.

Can demonstrate experience in at least two of the following areas:

  • Experience of the implementation or operation of policies and procedures relating to Housing Benefit or other Social Security benefits.

  • Experience of using i-World system in the administration of Housing Benefit. Experience of working in an administrative role.

Can demonstrate:

  • Ability to work accurately under pressure.

  • Ability to work as part of a team.

  • Strong customer orientation.

  • Excellent attention to detail.

 

Additional Information:

  • A Basic Access NI Check is required at a cost of £18.

 

How to Apply

To apply for this position please send your CV to chris.oneill@mparecruitment.co.uk

Or for further information and a confidential discussion on this post please call Chris at our Belfast office on 02895 211111

Please ensure your CV is accurate and updated with full personal contact details, education history, qualifications, and employment history.

MPA Recruitment are operating as an Employment Business in relation to this vacancy.

 

MPA are committed to providing equality of opportunity in employment and welcome applications from all suitably qualified applicants irrespective of gender, marital or family status, religious belief, political opinion, disability, age, race, nationality, or sexual orientation.