Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage housing applications and coordinate mutual exchanges for applicants.
- Company: Join Harlow Council, a forward-thinking local authority dedicated to community support.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, generous leave, health initiatives, and a pension scheme.
- Why this job: Be part of a dynamic team improving housing access with new tech and policies.
- Qualifications: GCSE A-C in English and Maths or equivalent; housing experience preferred.
- Other info: Open to all backgrounds; disability-friendly interview policy.
The predicted salary is between 29000 - 35000 £ per year.
Location: London
Salary: £34,168 - £35,348 per annum
Job type: Full Time, permanent
Harlow Council is looking to recruit a full-time Homefinder Officer to work on a permanent 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 employer: Harlow Council
Contact Detail:
Harlow Council Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Homefinder Officer
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the latest housing allocations policies and IT systems used in local authorities. This knowledge will not only help you understand the role better but also demonstrate your commitment to staying updated in the field.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals already working in housing roles, especially those who have experience in allocations. Engaging with them can provide valuable insights and potentially lead to referrals or recommendations.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for potential interview questions by practising scenarios related to customer service and housing needs assessments. Being able to articulate your approach to real-life situations will set you apart from other candidates.
✨Tip Number 4
Showcase your flexibility and self-motivation during any interactions with the hiring team. Highlighting examples from your past experiences where you've successfully worked independently will resonate well with the requirements of the role.
We think you need these skills to ace Homefinder Officer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in housing or customer service roles. Emphasise any specific achievements or responsibilities that align with the Homefinder Officer position.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: In your cover letter, express your enthusiasm for the role and the organisation. Mention your understanding of the new IT housing allocations system and how your skills can contribute to improving customer service.
Highlight Relevant Qualifications: Clearly state your GCSE A-C grades in English and Maths or equivalent qualifications. If you have additional training or certifications related to housing or customer service, be sure to include those as well.
Showcase Communication Skills: Since good communication is essential for this role, provide examples in your application of how you've effectively communicated with customers or colleagues in previous positions.
How to prepare for a job interview at Harlow Council
✨Understand the Role
Make sure you thoroughly read the job description and understand the responsibilities of a Homefinder Officer. Be prepared to discuss how your previous experience aligns with the day-to-day tasks, especially in managing Housing Needs Applications and coordinating mutual exchanges.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
As this role requires strong communication skills, be ready to provide examples of how you've effectively communicated with customers or colleagues in past positions. Highlight any experience you have in a front-line service environment, particularly within local authorities.
✨Demonstrate Flexibility and Initiative
The job calls for flexibility and self-motivation. Prepare to share instances where you've successfully worked independently or adapted to changing circumstances in your previous roles. This will show that you can thrive in a busy environment.
✨Prepare Questions
At the end of the interview, you'll likely have the chance to ask questions. Prepare thoughtful questions about the new IT housing allocations system or the revised Housing Allocations Scheme. This shows your genuine interest in the role and the organisation.
