At a Glance
- Tasks: Process Housing Benefit and Council Tax claims while supporting customers.
- Company: Join Cannock Chase District and Stafford Borough Councils for a meaningful career.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexitime, local government pension, 23 days leave, and more perks.
- Other info: Dynamic team environment with opportunities for training and career growth.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in your community while enjoying great work-life balance.
- Qualifications: GCSEs in Maths and English, plus experience in benefits assessment preferred.
The predicted salary is between 28142 - 28142 £ per year.
Benefits Assessor (Benefit Processing Team) – 2 Roles
Grade D: £25,989 - £28,142 per annum (pay award pending)
Contract Type: Permanent
Hours: 37 per week
Why join us?
- Flexitime scheme to support work–life balance
- Flexibility in working arrangements
- Local Government Pension Scheme
- 23 days annual leave, rising to 26 days after 5 years continuous service
- Discounted Council Leisure Centre Membership
- Cycle to Work Scheme
- Free Car Parking
- Casual Car User Allowance
About The Role
Cannock Chase Council and Stafford Borough Council are committed to achieving excellence in the processing of Housing Benefit and Local Council Tax Support claims together with the recovery of overpaid benefit, from their shared Benefits Service. The following opportunities have arisen for candidates with the appropriate skills, experience and commitment to work in the shared Benefits Service. Whilst the successful candidates will be based primarily in Cannock, you may be required on occasion to work at sites across the Cannock Chase and Stafford Borough areas.
As part of a busy team you will be required to process new claims for benefit and/or support made by customers. You will also be required to process changes in circumstances both reported by the customer and those changes reported automatically to the authority.
About You
The successful applicants will ideally have experience of assessing Housing Benefit and Local Council Tax Reduction claims and will be able to work accurately and prioritise workloads to enable deadlines to be met. You should hold GCSEs in Mathematics and English at Grade C or above or equivalent vocational or academic experience. You must also be able to work in a team and on your own initiative as well as being willing to undertake training development to gain detailed knowledge of Council Tax and Housing Benefits. The successful candidates will be required to undergo a Baseline Personnel Security Standard Check once appointed, which includes a Basic DBS Disclosure and enhanced identity checks.
Closing date: Wednesday 12th August 2026
Cannock Chase District and Stafford Borough Councils are Equal Opportunities Employers.
Benefits Processing Specialist - Housing & Council Tax in Cannock employer: WMJobs
West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA) is an exceptional employer that champions a collaborative and inclusive work culture, offering employees the chance to make a tangible impact in the public sector. With a strong focus on professional development and growth opportunities, WMCA supports its staff in navigating the complexities of local governance while fostering a dynamic environment that values innovation and adaptability. Located in the heart of the West Midlands, employees benefit from a vibrant community and access to a range of resources aimed at enhancing their career journey.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Benefits Processing Specialist - Housing & Council Tax in Cannock
✨Dive into Local Government Events
Get yourself to local government events and public sector job fairs. These are great for meeting recruiters and understanding what different organisations, like WMJobs, are looking for. Plus, it shows your genuine interest in the sector!
✨Join Relevant Networks
Look for communities focused on public sector careers. Whether it’s local networking groups or online forums, connecting with professionals in the field can provide insider knowledge and opportunities that you won’t find on typical job boards.
✨Utilise Your University’s Resources
If you’re freshly graduated or still studying, make the most of your university's careers service. They often have exclusive partnerships with companies like WMJobs and can help you get your foot in the door for these full-time public sector roles.
✨Stay Updated with Government Initiatives
Keep your finger on the pulse regarding new government projects and policies. Understanding current initiatives can give you a leg up in interviews, showing that you are informed and genuinely interested in making a difference in the public sector.
We think you need these skills to ace Benefits Processing Specialist - Housing & Council Tax in Cannock
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Relevant Experience:In the public sector, having experience in community engagement, policy analysis, or project management stands out. Make sure to showcase any previous roles or volunteer work that reflects your understanding of public service values and how they've shaped your career path.
Showcase Your Knowledge of the Sector:When you’re applying for a government role, it’s crucial to demonstrate your understanding of the current political landscape and public policies. Consider including articles you've written or relevant projects that underline your capability to engage with these concepts effectively.
Tailor Your CV to Reflect Core Competencies:Government positions often require a clear demonstration of competencies such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving. Try to structure your CV to highlight these skills, using specific examples of how you’ve applied them in past experiences, ideally with quantifiable outcomes where possible.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to tell your story and convey your passion for public service. Discuss why you want to work for WMJobs and how your values align with their mission. Be genuine and let your enthusiasm shine through—this can really set you apart from other candidates.
How to prepare for a job interview at WMJobs
✨Get to Know Public Sector Values
Before your interview with WMJobs, dig deep into their mission and values, especially how they align with public service and community impact. Understand the key policies or initiatives they are involved in – you’ll want to show that you genuinely care about serving the community.
✨Brush Up on Regulatory Knowledge
Brush up on the regulations, laws, and compliance standards relevant to the role you’re applying for. Since this is the government and public sector, they might throw technical questions related to policy frameworks or project management best practices that you'll need to navigate day-to-day.
✨Highlight Teamwork and Collaboration
The government sector thrives on collaboration. Be ready to discuss how you've successfully worked in diverse teams or involved stakeholders in your projects. Show us how you bring people together to get a common goal achieved – that's what public service is all about!
✨Prepare Real-Life Examples
Craft a few STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) stories that demonstrate your experience in similar roles. Whether it’s a project that made a difference in the community or a challenging situation you managed, be ready to express how your skills and experiences make you a valuable asset for WMJobs.
