Customer Service Representative

Performs responsible cashiering, collections, and customer service work for the County's Tax or Utility Department. This position is responsible for receiving and processing payments, maintaining accurate financial records, assisting customers with account questions, and providing administrative support. Employees in this role interact with the public daily and must provide courteous, professional service while ensuring accuracy in all financial transactions.

• Receive and process payments for:
  • Property (ad valorem) taxes
  • Water and utility accounts
  • Privilege licenses
  • Tap fees
  • Deposits
  • Drainage assessments
  • Garbage can fees
• Issue receipts and accurately post payments to customer accounts.
• Process payments received by mail, telephone, online, fax, and credit card.
• Answer customer questions regarding bills, payments, due dates, accounts, and County policies.
• Provide account statements and other requested information.
• Resolve routine customer concerns and refer complex issues to the appropriate staff.
• Balance and reconcile daily cash drawer and payment records.
• Prepare or assist with daily bank deposits.
• Maintain accurate records and perform data entry.
• Provide administrative support and assist with general office operations.
• Cross-train and provide backup support for other staff as needed.

• Calculate prorated vehicle taxes with appropriate documentation.
• Process approved releases for vehicle, real property, and garbage can accounts.
• Research property ownership and tax listings.
• Prepare tax certifications for attorneys, lenders, and mortgage companies.
• Assist taxpayers with personal property listings.
• Assess farm equipment values for taxation.
• Assist elderly and disabled citizens with tax exemption applications.
• Update taxpayer address records.

• Establish new utility accounts and explain services and policies.
• Collect deposits and enroll customers in bank draft programs.
• Prepare work orders for:
  • New utility service
  • Final meter readings
  • Special meter readings
• Initiate utility locate requests.
• Process returned mail and returned checks.
• Research customer addresses and notify customers regarding returned mail, returned checks, and applicable fees.
• Research delinquent accounts for collection purposes.

• Knowledge of County collection policies and procedures.
• Knowledge of billing, collections, accounting, and reporting processes.
• Proficiency with computers, office software, calculators, and other office equipment.
• Ability to accurately handle cash, checks, and financial transactions.
• Ability to perform mathematical calculations accurately.
• Ability to maintain accurate records and files.
• Strong customer service and communication skills.
• Ability to remain professional when dealing with difficult customers.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with coworkers and the public.

• Ability to perform light physical work, including standing, reaching, bending, stooping, kneeling, lifting, and repetitive hand movements.
• Ability to lift up to 20 pounds occasionally and up to 10 pounds frequently.
• Visual ability to accurately review financial documents, count cash, and operate standard office equipment.

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Experience in cashiering, customer service, accounting, or clerical work is preferred.