System Analyst (Benefits)
Confirmed on the employer's own hiring board on Oct 13, 2026. First seen by Alion on Oct 12, 2026.
System Analyst (Benefits)
Temporary Contract
Job Details
Client: Runnymede Borough Council
Service Area: Customer, Digital & Collection Services / Housing Benefits
Hours: 37 hours per week
Working Pattern: Hybrid
2 days remote, 3 days in the office
Start Date: 22 June 2026
Duration: 44 weeks
Location
Office Base:
Runnymede Civic Centre
Station Road
Addlestone
Surrey
KT15 2AH
Pay
PAYE Rate: £16.06 per hour
Job Overview
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.
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. The job description confirms this role is responsible for NEC system administration, payment allocation, BACS income collection files, software testing, system integrity, Benefits reporting and data management for a caseload of around 3,000 residents and families.
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.
Candidates without relevant Housing Benefit, Council Tax Support, benefits systems or revenues and benefits experience are unlikely to be considered.
Key Responsibilities
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
Support internal and external auditors with reports, access and data
Maintain performance, expenditure, caseload and statistical reports
Essential Experience & Skills
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
Additional Information
Interviews will be held via Microsoft Teams.
The interview will last approximately 45 minutes and the panel will include the Head of Benefits and a Team Leader.
Disclaimer
On applying for this vacancy, you agree that your personal details will be passed onto our client for their consideration of your suitability for the role.
I acknowledge that it is my responsibility to notify Fix Space Recruitment Limited of any hirer who I do not want my details to be passed onto.
Job Reference
OR102730