We have an exciting opportunity a Revenues & Benefits Assistant or Officer to join our Benefits Team within the Resident and Business Support service. As a Revenues and Benefits Assistant, full training will be provided to progress into the role of a Revenues and Benefits Officer however for this role we are looking for individuals with a strong customer service background, excellent negotiation skills in particular maximising cash collection in a difficult economic environment, who are confident in communicating with people and want to make a difference to residents. To be successful in either role you need experience in customer service, effective verbal and written communication skills, and excellent attention to detail with a strong background in successful debt recovery. You will need to be self-motivated, able to work under pressure and be a real team player. Knowledge of housing benefit regulations and council tax support or experience processing would be beneficial but is not essential. The role includes processing claims for Housing Benefit and Council Tax Reduction, including for temporary accommodation, dealing with change of circumstances for existing claims, completing full case reviews and supporting with the delivery of government grants. You will have responsibility for a caseload which will include customer contact through multiple channels including both in and outbound customer calling and in-person in our Contact Centre, personally ensuring all cases are dealt with to conclusion in accordance with all relevant statutory regulations, policies and procedures and maximising cash collection. If this is you, this may be the opportunity you are looking for! If you would like to talk through this opportunity further, please call Kimberley Robinson on 01642 729566. Please note Middlesbrough Council do not currently offer sponsorships. Please note this post is subject to a Baseline Personnel Security Standard (BPSS) Check, which includes a Verification of Criminal Record check (unspent convictions only). We operate a Guaranteed Interview Scheme for applicants that can show they meet all the essential criteria and have indicated they have a disability, are a looked after young person, care leaver or a veteran.