At a Glance
- Tasks: Support and maintain the NEC Benefits system for Housing Benefits.
- Company: Join Runnymede Borough Council, a community-focused organisation.
- Benefits: Competitive pay, hybrid working, and a chance to make a difference.
- Other info: Great opportunity for career growth in a supportive environment.
- Why this job: Be part of a team that ensures vital benefits are processed accurately.
- Qualifications: Experience in Housing Benefit and Council Tax Support is essential.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
Runnymede Borough Council is seeking an experienced System Analyst (Benefits) to support the daily maintenance, monitoring and administration of the NEC Benefits system. The role will provide technical systems support to the Housing Benefits service, ensuring payment processes, BACS files, Direct Debit files, reconciliations, system releases, software testing, reporting and housekeeping routines are completed accurately and on time.
The successful candidate will need experience of Housing Benefit and Council Tax Support assessment, good knowledge of Windows-based office packages, strong numeracy and analytical skills, and the ability to work with confidential data in line with GDPR.
Important – Please Read CarefullyThis role requires Housing Benefit and Council Tax Support assessment experience. You must be confident working with benefits systems, confidential customer data, deadlines, financial reconciliations, system administration, reports and technical processes. Experience of software testing or IT system administration is desirable, but direct Housing Benefit / Council Tax Support knowledge is essential. Candidates without relevant Housing Benefit, Council Tax Support, benefits systems or revenues and benefits experience are unlikely to be considered.
Key Responsibilities- Maintain and monitor the NEC Benefits software system
- Provide technical systems support to the Benefits Service
- Support operational systems administration for Benefits applications
- Ensure payment allocation and Benefits processes are run on time
- Produce Direct Debit and BACS income collection files
- Maintain system integrity through regular housekeeping routines
- Test and implement software releases and new functionality
- Document procedures following system or legislative changes
- Support service improvement and business transformation projects
- Keep up to date with Housing Benefit, Universal Credit and Council Tax Support changes
- Support Department for Work and Pensions and Government returns
- Prepare and distribute Housing Benefit payment timetables
- Create and run bespoke reports using First Query / Business Objects
- Set up and delete NEC system users
- Review user permissions quarterly in line with audit requirements
- Log software issues and faults with suppliers and monitor progress
- Develop and support UAT procedures
- Liaise with Digital Services, Finance, Revenues, Housing and system users
- Reconcile Housing Benefit payments to Housing and Finance systems
- Monitor Housing Benefit overpayments, Sundry debts and PDP debts
- Download and import DWP and HMRC reports into the Benefits system
- Support annual billing and uprating exercises
- Investigate and correct daily exception errors and reports
- Provide data for Subject Access Requests and FOI requests
- Experience of Housing Benefit and Council Tax Support assessment
- Experience working to deadlines and achieving targets
- Knowledge of Windows-based office packages
- Good numeracy, accounting and literacy skills
- Understanding of GDPR and confidential data handling
- Strong problem-solving and analytical skills
- Ability to learn, understand and apply complex legislation
- Ability to review processes and develop streamlined procedures
- Good verbal and written communication skills
- Good numerical reasoning
- Ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines
- Ability to deal with customers tactfully while following GDPR
- Ability to work with minimum supervision
- Commitment to providing a high-quality service
- Team player able to support others
- Experience of software testing or IT system administration
- Experience of Housing Benefit subsidy and assurance processes
- Project management experience
- IRRV Technician or equivalent experience
- Prince2 Project Management or equivalent
Interviews will be held via Microsoft Teams. The interview will last approximately 45 minutes and the panel will include the Head of Benefits and a Team Leader.
On applying for this vacancy, you agree that your personal details will be passed onto our client for their consideration of your suitability for the role. I acknowledge that it is my responsibility to notify Fix Space Recruitment Limited of any hirer who I do not want my details to be passed onto.
System Analyst (Benefits) in Addlestone employer: Fix Space Recruitment Ltd
Runnymede Borough Council is an excellent employer, offering a supportive work environment that values employee growth and development. With a hybrid working model, employees enjoy the flexibility of remote work while being part of a dedicated team at the Runnymede Civic Centre. The council prioritises a high-quality service and fosters a culture of collaboration, making it an ideal place for professionals seeking meaningful and rewarding employment in the public sector.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land System Analyst (Benefits) in Addlestone
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the company before your interview! Research Runnymede Borough Council and their Housing Benefits service. This will help us tailor our answers and show that we're genuinely interested in the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice common interview questions related to system analysis and benefits assessment. We can even do mock interviews with friends or family to build confidence and refine our responses.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare some questions to ask at the end of the interview. This shows that we’re engaged and keen to learn more about the team and the challenges they face in the Housing Benefits service.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up after the interview! A quick thank-you email can leave a lasting impression and remind them of our enthusiasm for the System Analyst position.
We think you need these skills to ace System Analyst (Benefits) in Addlestone
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your experience with Housing Benefit and Council Tax Support. We want to see how your skills match the job description, so don’t hold back on showcasing your relevant experience!
Show Off Your Technical Skills:Since this role involves working with the NEC Benefits system, it’s a good idea to mention any technical systems support or software testing experience you have. We love seeing candidates who can demonstrate their ability to handle complex systems!
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, keep it straightforward and to the point. Use bullet points where possible to make it easy for us to read through your qualifications and experiences. We appreciate clarity!
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy to do!
How to prepare for a job interview at Fix Space Recruitment Ltd
✨Know Your Benefits Inside Out
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of Housing Benefit and Council Tax Support assessment. Be prepared to discuss specific processes and regulations, as this role requires a solid understanding of these areas.
✨Showcase Your Technical Skills
Since the role involves maintaining and monitoring the NEC Benefits system, be ready to talk about your experience with similar systems. Highlight any software testing or IT system administration experience you have, even if it's not extensive.
✨Demonstrate Your Analytical Prowess
Prepare to showcase your strong numeracy and analytical skills. You might be asked to solve a problem or analyse a scenario related to financial reconciliations, so practice articulating your thought process clearly.
✨Communicate Effectively
Good verbal and written communication skills are essential for this role. Practice explaining complex concepts in simple terms, as you'll need to liaise with various stakeholders. Remember, clarity is key!
