Benefits Assessment Officer

Benefits Assessment Officer - Grade 2 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 attracts a salary between £27,650 and £29,762. Offers are usually made at the lower end of the salary band allowing for progression. 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. Closing date for applications: 8th December 2025 Interviews W/C: 15th December 2025 Appointment Type Permanent Position Full Time/Part Time Full-time Job Category Finance Hours 37 Location Millmead House, Millmead, Guildford GU2 4BB Salary Min Grade 2 - £27,650 Salary Max Grade 2 - £29,762 DBS Security Clearance Level Required Basic (if access to either GCSX or Open Revenues) Closing Date 08/12/2025 Ref No 11016 Documents (PDF, 202.58kb) About Guildford Guildford is a regional centre for leisure, business, education, shopping and culture set in beautiful countryside that includes the Surrey Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Guildford is a thriving market town and is a principal shopping destination with a vibrant night time economy. The town’s geographical location provides excellent transport links in all directions, London is just 30 minutes away on the train and the town is well-served by frequent bus routes and subsidised Park and Ride facilities.  All of this contributes to a quality of life that attracts many people to live, work in and visit Guildford. We are an equal opportunity and Disability Confident 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.