Subsidy Officer

Posted 17 June 2026
Salary 32
LocationNorthampton NN1 United Kingdom
Job type Full time
Sector Government & Public Sector
ReferenceRQ1742079

Job description

3-Month Contract

Housing Benefits Subsidy / Quality Assurance Officer

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Summary

The Housing Benefits Subsidy / Quality Assurance Officer plays a crucial role in ensuring the accurate assessment and payment of Housing Benefit claims in line with legislation and guidance. This position is integral to enhancing subsidy outcomes, maximising the Council's income, and supporting service quality through thorough auditing, checking, and identifying development needs within the team.

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Key Responsibilities

  • Assess and review Housing Benefit claims to ensure accuracy and compliance with current legislation and guidance.
  • Monitor and verify benefit processing to ensure correct payments and minimize errors.
  • Assist in the preparation and completion of Housing Benefit subsidy returns and claims.
  • Collaborate with external auditors, providing necessary data and supporting audit processes.
  • Identify discrepancies and areas for improvement to enhance subsidy outcomes.
  • Support the objective of maximising subsidy income and improving the Council’s financial position.
  • Conduct quality assurance checks on benefit assessments.
  • Provide feedback to staff and management based on findings from subsidy checks.
  • Support the Training and Resilience team by identifying skills gaps and development needs.
  • Contribute to continuous improvement in processes, compliance, and service delivery.
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Requirements

Requirements:

Experience & Skills Required

Essential Experience

  • Experience working within Housing Benefits or a similar welfare benefits environment.
  • Experience interpreting and applying benefit legislation and guidance.
  • Experience in quality assurance, checking, or auditing of claims.
  • Experience working with financial data and returns.
Desirable Experience

  • Experience completing Housing Benefit subsidy claims/returns.
  • Experience working with auditors or supporting audit processes.
  • Local authority or public sector experience.
Essential Skills

  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
  • High level of accuracy and attention to detail.
  • Good understanding of Housing Benefit subsidy rules and compliance requirements.
  • Ability to interpret complex legislation and apply it in practice.
  • Strong communication skills to provide constructive feedback and guidance to colleagues.
  • Ability to work independently and manage deadlines.
  • Proficient IT skills, including Microsoft Office (particularly Excel).
Qualifications

Essential

  • Educated to GCSE level (or equivalent), including English and Maths.
  • Relevant experience in Housing Benefits administration or subsidy work.
Desirable

  • Professional qualification in Revenues and Benefits or related field.
  • Training or certification in Housing Benefit subsidy and compliance.
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Performance Measures

  • Accuracy of Housing Benefit assessments and compliance with legislation.
  • Timely and accurate completion of subsidy returns.
  • Improvement in subsidy income and reduction in errors.
  • Positive audit outcomes and reduced risk exposure.
  • Identification and development of staff through quality assurance processes.
Additional Information

  • A valid DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) check is required for this role.
  • We pay on a bi-weekly basis.
  • Working hours per week: 37.
  • Location: Northampton.