Senior Support Assistant in Gateshead

Do you want to help make Gateshead a place where everyone thrives? If that sounds like you, keep reading - we might be the perfect match. We’re delighted that you’re interested in working with us. You’d be joining us at a very exciting time. We pride ourselves on our ambitious and forward-thinking approach to taking care of Gateshead and its people, and we passionately believe that our employees reflect that spirit in truly enabling Gateshead to thrive.

At Gateshead Council you’d be a highly valued member of a team that recognises and respects the skills that you bring to your role, encourages creativity and passionately advocates a great work / life balance. Our actions speak louder than words, and with flexi-time and hybrid working available across many of our roles, as well as a full suite of outstanding employee benefits, we’re confident that it isn’t just the salary that attracts our staff.

Our Private Sector Housing team is made up of Environmental Health Officers, Technical Officers and administrative support, working across a broad range of housing related issues including housing standards, noise and anti-social behaviour, public health issues, statutory nuisances and landlord licensing to improve conditions in the private housing sector. Gateshead Council is seeking to appoint a Senior Support Assistant to join the Private Sector Housing Team.

You will be providing administrative support to the Private Sector Housing Team, receiving requests for service and recording information, processing landlord license applications, checking rented property safety certificates, raising invoices and monitoring payments, analysing information and producing reports, and preparing documents and presentations.

What you will be involved in:

• Provide a high level of customer service when receiving and investigating service requests made in person at reception, by telephone, email, or in writing, ensuring all information is accurately recorded in the customer management system.
• Process online Selective Landlord Licence applications, checking all supporting information and documentation to prepare applications for licence approval.
• Raise invoices and monitor payments received.
• Monitor and update information systems within the Private Sector Housing Team to maintain accurate and up-to-date records.
• Produce reports and statistical information as required.
• Carry out research and analyse information systems to ensure accuracy, including the review and management of performance information.

Qualifications Essential Criteria:

• 4 GCSEs grade 4 or above including Maths and English or relevant equivalent experience.

Knowledge:

• Competent in using Microsoft Office and a range of IT applications.
• Familiar with standard layouts and formats for preparing reports, minutes, and general correspondence.

Experience:

• Experience working in a clerical and administrative role.
• Experience working with the public, including handling challenging individuals and difficult situations.
• Strong planning, organisational, communication, and customer service skills.
• Skilled in data input, record keeping, and maintaining a variety of databases.
• Able to apply a methodical approach to problem solving.
• Experienced in designing and developing administrative procedures and processes to meet identified needs.
• Skilled in monitoring administrative procedures to ensure they remain effective and fit for purpose.

What’s In It For You:

• Competitive Salary: We offer fair and transparent pay that reflects your skills and experience.
• Outstanding Pension Scheme: We invest in your future too.
• Generous Annual Leave: Enjoy 28 days of annual leave, rising to 32 days after 5 years, plus the option to buy up to 10 extra days.
• Flexible Working Hours: Benefit from up to 26 flexi days per year, giving you more control over your time.
• Hybrid & Flexible Working: We support a healthy work-life balance with flexible and hybrid working options.
• Learning & Development: Access a wide range of training, development, and progression opportunities to help you grow your career.
• Health & Wellbeing Support: From discounted gym memberships to mental health resources, we care about your wellbeing.
• Cycle to Work Scheme: Save money and stay active with our tax‑efficient cycle to work programme.
• Electric & Hybrid Car Scheme: Get behind the wheel of a brand‑new electric or hybrid vehicle through our salary sacrifice car scheme.
• Exclusive Discounts & Salary Sacrifice: Enjoy discounts on shopping, travel, and services plus salary sacrifice options on essential purchases.

Our commitment to you:

We are an equal opportunities employer and aim to have a culture and a workplace where our people feel a sense of belonging, are respected and empowered to do their best work. At Gateshead Council we are an employer who embraces diversity and demonstrates equality for all. We welcome applications from suitably qualified people from all sections of the community.

How To Apply:

You can apply online using the link below. Within the form, you’ll be asked for details about you, your career history, skills, experiences and qualifications. We advise you to be as detailed and specific as possible. If you have any questions about your application, please don’t hesitate to reach out to our recruitment team.

Please note: As a Disability Confident employer, we guarantee an interview to all disabled applicants who meet the essential criteria for the role.