Tax Collections Specialist

Description This position is open until filled. The Human Resources Office is unable to provide status updates by telephone. The salary range is listed above. Starting salary will depend on qualifications and experience. The Tax Collections Specialist performs responsible administrative and fiscal tasks in the collection of current and delinquent taxes for the County Tax Department. An employee in this class is responsible for tasks associated with current and delinquent tax collections for the County in accordance with State law governing these activities. Work includes verifying delinquent taxpayer information, sending initial and follow-up notifications to delinquent taxpayers informing them of collection procedures if taxes are not paid, and notifying the North Carolina debt set-off program about delinquent taxes. Work includes handling bankruptcies and foreclosures. Work also includes answering inquiries from the taxpayers and establishing payment arrangements. The employee in this class is also expected to assist in other areas of the department as needed. Judgment and initiative are required, and tact and courtesy are necessary in working with property owners and their representatives. Work is performed under regular supervision and is evaluated by the effectiveness of the program as indicated by reports, collection records, annual audits, and reports on the operation of the function. Essential Job Functions Plans and organizes work and determines work priorities for collecting taxes on real and personal property. Reviews delinquent tax listings; verifies identification of taxpayer; checks addresses and social security numbers; corrects addresses; verifies tax amounts owed and account information; searches databases for information to locate delinquent taxpayers. Sends correspondence and follow-up correspondence to delinquent taxpayers notifying of delinquency and procedures for collection; sets up appointments to meet with taxpayers. Conducts research as necessary to identify employers, bank accounts, etc. for garnishments and attachments. Mails out letters to employers to obtain list of employees; prepares garnishment notifications and mails to employer and taxpayer. Coordinates foreclosures with the County Attorney; researches deeds, mortgages, corporations, assumed names, etc. through Register of Deeds and NC Secretary of State offices. Reviews delinquent tax listings; verifies identification of taxpayer; checks addresses and social security numbers; corrects addresses; verifies tax amounts owed and account information; searches databases for information to locate delinquent taxpayers. Sends correspondence and follow-up correspondence to delinquent taxpayers notifying of delinquency and procedures for collection; sets up appointments to meet with taxpayers. Follows up on dismissals/discharges for Chapter 13; sends letters/statements to taxpayer; tracks payment plan. Prepares real estate tax certifications for attorneys, real estate agents, mortgage companies and the general public. Generates tax bill data base in specialized software; enters releases on bills, enters write-offs, generates refunds on overpayments; removes garnishment fees; enters special conditions and notes into taxpayer data base. Operates a variety of technology, applications, mapping systems, and peripherals. Interprets State tax collection laws and County policies and procedures to taxpayers; answers inquiries in person or by telephone; explains procedures and legal requirements: answers inquiries about due dates, accounts, bills, payments, etc.; explains policies and procedures and actions being taken; refers more difficult situations to others for resolution. Performs customer service duties at front counter when needed; receives payments from customers for County real and personal property taxes, privilege licenses, drainage accounts, etc.; provides receipts to customers for payments; posts payments to the appropriate accounts; processes mail, phone, internet, fax and/or credit card payments; provides copies of account statements. Provides assistance to taxpayers, attorneys, real estate professionals, and the general public in researching records, using maps, and in providing general information on tax laws and policies. Verifies and enters transfers of changes in ownership of real estate property following sales, death, marriage, divorce, etc.; sends farm use applications to taxpayers and processes applications for those who qualify. Mails notices to businesses to renew licenses; contacts new businesses about purchases of licenses. Assures security of cash drawer. Backs-up and assists other administrative staff as needed. Performs other related duties as assigned.

Qualifications Education and Experience:

Requires a high school diploma or equivalent and one (1) year related experience in clerical administration, money handling and public contact, or equivalent combination of education and experience.

Licenses or Certifications:

Possession of a valid driver's license. Possession of Assistant Tax Collector certification is preferred.

Special Requirements:

None.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

Knowledge of local government operations, policies and plans, and modern office practices and procedures. Knowledge of Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and other similar programs. Knowledge of modern office practices and procedures. Knowledge of North Carolina Machinery Act, County tax policies and procedures concerning listing, assessment, billing and collection. Skill in using independent judgement and initiative. Skill in dealing with sensitive and controversial situations involving the public with tact and courtesy. Ability to compute figures rapidly and accurately. Ability to read tax maps. Ability to deal tactfully and courteously with the general public, in explaining laws, policies and procedures, and handling angry customers. Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with co-workers, supervisors and county officials. Ability to operate calculators, computers and other assigned equipment with speed, accuracy, and skill. Ability to work with figures accurately and efficiently Ability to meet and deal with employees and the public in an effective and courteous manner. Ability to get along with others, and work effectively with the public and co-workers. Ability to multi-task and work within deadlines. Ability to deal with confidential and sensitive matters. Ability to use computers for data entry, word processing, and accounting purposes. Supplemental Information

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

The work is sedentary work which requires exerting up to 10 pounds of force occasionally and/or negligible amount of force frequently to lift, carry, push, pull or otherwise move objects. Tasks may require the following abilities: stooping, reaching, lifting, fingering, grasping, and repetitive motions. Requires mental acuity including the ability to make rational decisions through sound logic and deductive processes, the ability to express ideas by means of the spoken word and have close visual acuity to prepare and analyze data and figures, accounting, to operate a computer terminal, and extensive reading at distances close to the eyes.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

Work is performed in a relatively safe, and secure work environment.

Please Note:

If offered a position, official transcripts/verification of education must be submitted directly to the Human Resources Office from the educational institution(s) listed on application. Positions requiring a minimum education/certification must also have official documents submitted to the Human Resources Office. Unofficial transcripts may be submitted by the candidate with the application for consideration of meeting minimum job requirements. Vance County is an Equal Opportunity Employer