2 Month Contract With A Local Authority Job purpose The purpose of the Payments Officer role is to support the efficient operation of the Council’s financial services by processing and managing payments to suppliers, benefit claimants and other stakeholders through the financial management system. The role ensures that invoices, payments and financial records are handled accurately and in a timely manner while complying with financial procedures and procurement policies. Key Responsibilities Process and distribute supplier invoices using the financial management system. Generate bank payments and cheques for suppliers, Housing Benefits, Council Tax/NDR and other Council payments. Monitor returned or cancelled payments and notify relevant departments to resolve issues. Create and maintain supplier records after carrying out procurement compliance and company checks. Raise and cancel purchase orders in line with the No PO, No Pay policy. Monitor outstanding invoices and GRN tasks and remind officers to code and authorise them. Process and manage petty cash, including balancing and recouping funds. Receive, record and process ad-hoc cash payments and cheques received by the Council. Reconcile and prepare cash and cheques for secure collection. Maintain accurate supplier records for the Construction Industry Scheme and submit information to HMRC. Administer the Council’s car loan scheme, including quotes, deductions and loan recovery when staff leave. Calculate and process car mileage claims for Council employees. Maintain and update authorised signatory lists in coordination with senior officers. Assist with procurement administration and compliance checks across the organisation. Compile information for quarterly performance reports. Maintain financial records through filing, scanning and record keeping. Liaise with internal departments, suppliers and external organisations when delivering finance services. Provide system support and guidance to staff using financial and payment systems. Provide cover for colleagues to ensure continuity of team services Requirements Ability to handle numerical data, including calculating, recording and analysing financial information. Strong written and verbal communication skills. Ability to use computer systems and software used for financial services. Ability to work independently with minimal supervision. Good time management and ability to prioritise tasks to meet deadlines. Ability to maintain confidentiality when handling sensitive financial information. Ability to follow procedures and understand instructions accurately. Strong organisational and administrative skills. Flexible approach to operational, administrative and clerical duties. Proven experience dealing with payments to suppliers or creditors. Basic financial knowledge equivalent to A-levels or BTEC in finance or a related subject. Commitment to the Council’s values and professional standards. Additional information Bi-Weekly Payments 37 Working Hours Per Week