Subsidy Officer

Opus People Solutions are hiring for a Housing Benefit Subsidy Officer within a Local Authority client based in Northamptonshire.

The role is 37 hours per week, offering hybrid working, and £32.00 Umbrella / £23.34 PAYE per hour, with a contract length of 6 months.

• Ensure that benefit claims are being assessed accurately and paid correctly and in line with legislation and guidance.
• Assist in the completion of the Housing Benefit subsidy returns and claims, including working with auditors.
• Ensure that the subsidy position improves and income to the Council is maximised.
• Support the Training and Resilience team by identifying development needs of officers through Subsidy checking.
• Undertake reviews of benefit claims processed to ensure prompt and accurate determinations of Housing and Council Tax Reduction are being made and that the Council's subsidy position is maximised. This includes complex claims such as homeless, hostels, self‑employed, students and persons from abroad, in accordance with legislation and best practice.
• Maintain an up-to-date knowledge of Council Tax and Housing Benefits legislation, case law, software enhancements and related procedures and policies.
• Assist in the timely and accurate completion, submission and verification by external audit of all returns relating to the annual subsidy claim, including working with external auditors and completion of workbook.

• Demonstrate the ability to take on board and understand complex legislation.
• ICT skills including PC, Microsoft Office.
• Strong communication and negotiation skills and ability to communicate with all customers, partners, and to make difficult decisions showing tact and diplomacy.
• Ability to self‑motivate and work to high standards of accuracy, to achieve targets and deadlines.
• Previous experience within Local Government.

If this role is of interest to you, please submit a copy of your CV and a mobile number.