System Analyst (Benefits)

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., * 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

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 Carefully

This 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., * 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

Desirable

• 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