Benefits Assessment Officer

South Hams District Council; United States; Hybrid; USD 39,000 - 44,000; Full time

Job summary

South Hams District Council is seeking a Benefits Officer in Totnes for a 2-year fixed term contract. The role focuses on assessing Housing Benefit and Council Tax Support claims with accuracy and care.

The post requires prior experience and a clear understanding of how changes in policy affect residents. The successful candidate will handle sensitive information professionally, support residents compassionately, and comply with DBS checks as part of safeguarding duties.

Qualifications

• Experience in assessing Housing Benefit and Council Tax Support claims.
• Strong attention to detail and accuracy in processing benefit claims.
• Ability to handle sensitive information with professionalism and empathy.

Responsibilities

• Assess Housing Benefit and Council Tax Support claims accurately and efficiently.
• Provide high-quality support to residents and communicate clearly.
• Adapt to changes in legislation and working practices.

Skills

Benefits assessment

Attention to detail

Compassionate service

Job description

Benefits Officer

• Company: South Hams District Council
• Salary: £29,542 to £33,119 a year
• Hours: Full-time
• Location: Totnes, TQ9 5NE
• Working pattern: Hybrid - 4 days remote
• Job type: Contract
• Posting date: 14 Oct 2026
• Closing date: 8 Nov 2026

Summary

2 year fixed term contract

Our Revenue and Benefits Service is proud of the high-quality support we provide to our residents and is looking for an experienced Benefits Assessment Officer to join our busy team. This is an excellent opportunity for a motivated and enthusiastic individual to help deliver our Benefits Service by assessing Housing Benefit and Council Tax Support claims accurately and efficiently.

The successful candidate will have previous experience working as a Benefits Assessment Officer and will understand the importance of adapting quickly to changes in legislation, guidance, and working practices. You will have a strong working knowledge of Housing Benefit and Council Tax Support, excellent attention to detail, and the ability to manage a demanding workload while maintaining high standards of accuracy.

You will also recognise the sensitive nature of benefit claims and be able to provide support to residents in a professional, understanding, and compassionate manner. The successful candidate will be required to complete a Basic DBS check.

If you have the skills, experience, and commitment to succeed in this challenging and rewarding role, we would love to hear from you.

For an informal discussion please contact David Hart, Benefits Team Leader, [e-mail] or 01803 861485.

Closing date: Sunday 8 November 2026

Interviews are expected to be held: week commencing 23 November 2026