Council Tax & Benefits Officer

• Council_Tax___Benefits_Officer_JDPS

Please apply online via the link provided below. Please note that we do not accept CV's without a fully completed application form.

Are you a proactive and detail-oriented, with a passion for delivering excellent customer service? Do you thrive in a fast-paced, multi-channel environment and enjoy making a real difference in your community?

Folkestone & Hythe District Council is seeking an efficient and skilled Council Tax & Benefits Officer to join our dynamic Council Tax, Benefits & Welfare Team. This is a fantastic opportunity to contribute to a service that supports residents across the district, ensuring accurate billing, collection, and benefit processing.

What You’ll Be Doing:

• Acting as the first point of contact for Council Tax and Benefits enquiries across various platforms (phone, email, web chat).
• Processing applications and changes efficiently and accurately in line with legislation and council procedures.
• Supporting customers to self-serve and signposting to relevant agencies for additional support.
• Managing Council Tax accounts, Housing Benefit and Council Tax Reduction claims, and recovery processes.
• Collaborating with internal teams and external partners to deliver joined-up services.

What We’re Looking For:

• Strong communication skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to manage multiple tasks and prioritise effectively.
• A customer-focused approach with experience in administrative or support service roles.
• IT proficiency, particularly in Microsoft Office.
• Minimum of one day per week to be based in our Civic Centre offices.
• For Level 2 applicants: demonstrable experience in Council Tax or Benefits administration and the ability to handle complex cases independently.

Why Join Us?

Folkestone & Hythe District Council is proud to offer a supportive and inclusive working environment with a wide range of benefits:

• Up to 31 days annual leave plus bank holidays, birthday leave, and Christmas office closure.
• Flexible, agile, and hybrid working options.
• Local Government Pension Scheme.
• Learning and development opportunities to help you grow your career.
• Family-friendly policies and health & wellbeing initiatives, including an Employee Assistance Programme.
• Salary sacrifice schemes for cycle to work and lease cars.
• Corporate discounts on shopping, entertainment, gym memberships, and more.
• Free office parking and a town centre location close to transport links.

Closing date for receipt of all completed applications is 11:59pm on 25th August 2025

Interviews will take place 4th - 5th September 2025.

For an informal discussion about this role, please contact Andrew Hatcher – Council Tax, Benefits & Welfare Manager: Andrew.Hatcher@folkestone-hythe.gov.uk, Tel: 01303 853348