CCBU Assistant

Sandwell Metropolitan Borough Council; Oldbury; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A local government authority in Oldbury is seeking a Payments Officer to support timely payment processes for social care services. The ideal candidate will have experience in finance, excellent communication skills, and the ability to handle customer queries effectively. This role requires working accurately with figures and proficiency in Excel, making a real impact in supporting community services.

Qualifications

• Experience in a payments and/or charging service, ideally in the public sector.
• Proficiency in using general ledger systems.

Responsibilities

• Review and process payments and raise invoices for social care services.
• Handle queries related to invoices and payment schedules.
• Conduct financial assessments for individuals accessing social care.

Skills

Experience in payments service

Ability to work accurately with figures

Customer service skills

Proficiency in Excel and Word

Strong communication skills

Education

4 GCSEs at grade A to C including English and Mathematics

Job description

Overview

The role is key within the CCBU payments section to support the team in ensuring payments are made in a timely manner. The officer investigates queries, contacts providers and social care staff to resolve issues, and processes daily payments. The team handles approximately £12m in payments per month to care providers on behalf of social care teams, following timetabled schedules staggered to enable the small team to process and make payments on time.

Responsibilities

• Review and process payments and raise invoices for people accessing social care services.
• Check invoices and payment schedules for providers and handle any queries.
• Conduct financial assessments for individuals accessing social care services via telephone or in person, and assist with all elements of income collection as required.
• Respond to customer/provider queries via telephone, in person, or email.

Qualifications

• Experience in a payments and/or charging service, ideally in the public sector, and a finance background.
• Ability to work accurately and quickly with figures.
• Proficiency in using and interrogating general ledger systems, and strong Excel and Word skills.
• Confidence and professionalism in communicating over the phone or in person with service users.
• Well‑developed customer service skills.
• 4 GCSEs at grade A to C, including English Language and Mathematics, or equivalent qualifications.
• Experience dealing with people and organisations in person, by telephone, and in writing.
• Proficiency in computer systems.