Jobs

Do you have a passion for improving services, solving problems and making the most of technology?  If so, we want to hear from you!

We're seeking two motivated and skilled Technical & Support Officers to join our fast-paced and diverse Technical & Support Team. This is an excellent opportunity to play a key role in supporting critical systems, driving service improvements, delivering specialist training and providing expert technical support across Transactional and Customer Services.

WHAT IS INVOLVED?
The Technical & Support Team delivers a wide range of specialist support functions across Assessment & Awards, Payments, Income & Support Teams, and Finance & HR Services. As a Technical and Support Officer, you'll be part of a team that supports the effective delivery of essential services to both internal and external customers.

Key responsibilities include:
 

• Testing and implementing system enhancements, upgrades and software releases.
• Identifying opportunities to maximise the use of technology and improve service efficiency.
• Managing and supporting key Revenues and Benefits and Financial Services systems.
• Producing statistical returns, management information and performance reports.
• Supporting service improvement projects and business change initiatives.
• Representing the Council at Council Tax tribunals.
• Carrying out quality assurance reviews and helping to drive continuous improvement.
• Designing, coordinating and delivering technical and legislative training.
• Developing and maintaining guidance, procedures and training materials.
• Liaising with software suppliers and stakeholders to support service development.

No two days are the same, and you will have the opportunity to influence how services develop and improve in the future.
We encourage you to contact Craig Sheldon via email at craig.sheldon@durham.gov.uk to arrange an informal discussion about the role.  
 
WHAT WILL I NEED?
You will be educated to NVQ Level 3 or equivalent.

Relevant professional qualifications such as IRRV, training or assessor qualifications are not essential but would be advantageous.

Please note that occasional attendance at the office beyond your normal working pattern may be required to meet business needs. There may also be occasions where work is required outside of normal office hours, including evenings and weekends.

We are looking for someone who can bring:

• Substantial experience within a Revenues and Benefits environment and/or a financial services support environment.
• A detailed knowledge of Revenues and Benefits and/or financial legislation and practice.
• Excellent ICT skills and confidence working with complex systems and Microsoft 365 apps.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• The ability to manage conflicting priorities and deliver high-quality work to tight deadlines.
• Experience of introducing new systems, processes or ways of working.
• A proactive and flexible approach with a strong commitment to customer service.

Please refer to the attached Person Specification for the full criteria. 

If successful, you will be required to apply for a Basic Disclosure.

INTERVIEWS
Interviews will be held week commencing 14th September 2026.
 
We operate a guaranteed interview scheme for applicants that can show they meet all the essential criteria and have indicated they have a disability, are a looked after young person, care leaver or a veteran.
 
OUR OFFER TO YOU
We offer a competitive rewards package that includes attractive salaries, a generous annual leave entitlement of 27 days (rising to 32 after five years’ continuous local government service), membership of the excellent contributory career average Local Government Pension Scheme, and a range of flexible working arrangements including hybrid working (home and office) where applicable. Explore the full range of rewards and benefits on our website.

Rewards and benefits are subject to individual terms and conditions.

EQUALITY, DIVERSITY, AND INCLUSION
We are a proud equal opportunities employer and believe a diverse workforce brings fresh ideas and drives service improvement. We welcome applications from everyone and make employment decisions based on skills and ability. As a Disability Confident Leader, we actively encourage applications from disabled and neurodivergent people and offer support throughout the recruitment process.
 
HOW TO APPLY 
Please note, we do not accept CVs. All applications must be submitted online via the Northeast Jobs portal. Use the ‘Person Specification’ section of the form to clearly demonstrate how you meet the essential (and where possible, desirable) criteria. Applications that do not evidence the essential requirements will not be shortlisted.

Please visit our website to understand our position on using AI to support your application and for guidance on completing your application.
 
If you require assistance when applying for this role, please contact our Recruitment Helpdesk on 03000 26 27 27, or via email Recruitmentresources@durham.gov.uk.
 
All correspondence relating to your application will be sent from donotreply@northeastjobs.org.uk. Kindly check your spam/junk folder regularly to ensure you don’t miss any updates.
 
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Company: Durham County Council

Salary: £30,024 to £33,699 p.a. (Grade 7) Pay Award pending

Location: Spennymoor, Durham

Sector: Education

Job Role: Officer