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- Tasks: Manage housing applications and coordinate mutual exchanges in a dynamic team.
- Company: Join Harlow Council, dedicated to improving community housing services.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, generous leave, and health initiatives.
- Why this job: Be part of a transformative team with a positive impact on local housing.
- Qualifications: GCSE A-C in English and Maths or equivalent; housing experience preferred.
- Other info: Open to all applicants, including those with disabilities.
The predicted salary is between 29100 - 30000 £ per year.
Harlow Council is looking to recruit a full-time Homefinder Officer to work on a two-year fixed term contract.
You will be working in our busy Housing Options & Advice Team, providing a customer focused front-line service. Flexibility, self-motivation and working on your own initiative are important in both the working environment and the customers that require our services.
This is an exciting time to join our team, following the implementation of a new IT housing allocations system, together with a revised Housing Allocations Scheme (Allocations Policy). This has improved the service and access for our customers and streamlined our processes.
The Homefinder Officer is responsible for day-to-day management and processing of Housing Needs Applications for both transfer and homeseeker applicants and the allocation of accommodation. Coordinating mutual exchanges both internally and externally, liaising with other local authorities and registered providers.
The successful candidate will have GCSE A-C grades in English and Maths, or minimum Level 4 or equivalent. Applicants need to be able to demonstrate front line Local Authority housing experience, ideally within an allocations environment. Applicants must have good literacy, numeracy, and communication skills.
Our policies support our employees by enabling a positive work/life balance including flexible working where possible. In addition to this, the Council offers many excellent employee benefits which include, pension scheme, generous annual leave entitlement, health and wellbeing initiatives, employee assistance programme and development opportunities.
Harlow Council is committed to equal opportunities and welcomes applications from all sections of the community. People with disabilities will be offered an interview where they meet the Essential Criteria on the Employee Profile.
Please click on the APPLY button to send your CV and Cover Letter for this role.
Candidates with the experience or relevant job titles of; Housing Officer, Tenancy Officer, Neighbourhood Housing Officer, Home Ownership Officer, Housing Manager, Housing Assistant, Tenancy Support Officer, Customer Service Adviser (Housing), Housing Administrator, Housing Assessment Officer will also be considered for this role.
Homefinder Officer 2 year fixed term contract employer: Harlow Council
Contact Detail:
Harlow Council Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Homefinder Officer 2 year fixed term contract
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the new IT housing allocations system mentioned in the job description. Understanding how this system works will not only help you during the interview but also demonstrate your proactive approach to learning and adapting to new technologies.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with current or former employees of Harlow Council, especially those who have worked in housing roles. They can provide valuable insights into the team dynamics and expectations, which can help you tailor your approach during the application process.
✨Tip Number 3
Brush up on your knowledge of local housing policies and the challenges faced by residents in London. Being well-informed about these issues will allow you to engage in meaningful discussions during interviews and show your commitment to providing excellent customer service.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare specific examples from your past experience that highlight your front-line Local Authority housing experience. Be ready to discuss how you've successfully managed housing needs applications or coordinated mutual exchanges, as these are key responsibilities for the Homefinder Officer role.
We think you need these skills to ace Homefinder Officer 2 year fixed term contract
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in housing or customer service roles. Emphasise any front-line Local Authority housing experience and include specific examples of your achievements in similar positions.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: In your cover letter, express your enthusiasm for the Homefinder Officer role. Mention your understanding of the new IT housing allocations system and how your skills align with the responsibilities outlined in the job description.
Highlight Key Skills: Clearly demonstrate your literacy, numeracy, and communication skills in both your CV and cover letter. Use concrete examples to show how you've successfully used these skills in previous roles.
Follow Application Instructions: Ensure you click the APPLY button as instructed in the job posting. Double-check that you have included all required documents, such as your CV and cover letter, before submitting your application.
How to prepare for a job interview at Harlow Council
✨Know Your Housing Policies
Familiarise yourself with the latest housing allocations policies and procedures. Understanding how these policies impact the role of a Homefinder Officer will show your commitment and readiness to contribute effectively.
✨Demonstrate Customer Service Skills
Since this role is customer-focused, prepare examples of how you've successfully handled customer inquiries or complaints in the past. Highlight your ability to empathise and provide solutions, as this will be crucial in your day-to-day responsibilities.
✨Showcase Your Initiative
The job requires self-motivation and the ability to work independently. Be ready to discuss instances where you took the initiative to improve processes or solve problems without direct supervision.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect scenario-based questions that assess your decision-making skills in housing situations. Think about potential challenges you might face in the role and how you would address them, demonstrating your problem-solving abilities.
