Assistant Tax Collector

Job Description

JOB TITLE: ASSISTANT TAX COLLECTOR

DEPARTMENT: FINANCE – OFFICE OF THE TAX COLLECTOR

EMPLOYMENT TYPE: FULLTIME/NON-EXEMPT

UNION/NON-UNION: SUPERVISORY AND PROFESSIONAL UNION

Provides technical assistance in support of the office’s responsibilities, including collecting and receiving revenue such as parking fines, real-estate taxes, personal property taxes, excise taxes, water & sewer fees, and various departmental billings. Serves as the parking hearings officer. Work performed is complex and diverse and requires further investigation before a decision can be reached. The position has a significant impact affecting the work of others both within and outside the department. Supervise department’s clerical/administrative staff.

We are an affirmative action/equal opportunity employer committed to promoting a multicultural work force, excellence in public service, and on-going mutual respect in our working relationships. We strongly encourage people of color, people with disabilities, LGBTQ individuals, bilingualists, and people from other underrepresented groups to apply for our open positions - recognizing and respecting that diverse perspectives and experiences are valuable to our team and essential to our public service.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Post collection agency receipts and transactions daily. Prepare and verify bank deposits.
• Process delinquent excise tax payments on a monthly basis.
• Reconciles Deputy Collector’s bank account on a monthly basis.
• Process quarterly tax payments for banks and financial institutions.
• Research and process Municipal Lien Certificates for Attorney’s Offices.
• Process Lockbox and E-Pay reports daily.
• Research, prepare and process refunds for Real Estate, Personal Property and Excise.
• Help with the daily balancing of clerks and Kelley & Ryan when necessary.
• Processes letters weekly for written parking appeals and performs scheduled face-to-face hearings of parking tickets on a monthly basis.
• Performs other similar and related duties as required or assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Requires a High School diploma or equivalent, additional specialized training or experience in accounting/bookkeeping and administrative skills preferred,
• A minimum 5 years’ related experience; or any equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Requires prior municipal experience.
• Associate’s degree highly desirable.
• Certification by the Massachusetts Association as soon as eligible.
• The employee is required to attend specialized training and courses to maintain certification.
• Requires eligibility to be bonded.
• Requires knowledge of English, grammar and arithmetic for bookkeeping and billing.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office, including Word, Excel, and Outlook; requires skill in word-processing, spreadsheets and databases for data entry, calculations, and preparation of letters and memoranda.
• Required to identify technology and systems solutions to improve department efficiency and service quality.
• Requires skill in using software features such as mail merges, applying formulas, and formatting (sorting, filtering, hiding, etc.).
• Requires thorough knowledge of Massachusetts laws relating to municipal finance.
• Requires strong communication skills to work effectively with a diverse population; More than ordinary courtesy, tact, patience and understanding is needed to resolve issues and maintain public goodwill.
• Requires broad-based knowledge of the interrelationships and impact of decisions made on other departments, functions, and operations.
• Ability to work independently with minimal oversight.
• Requires organizational and planning skills in coordinating activities of the department, and work with other City departments.

WORKING CONDITIONS

This is an office-based job in a dynamic municipal building. While performing the duties of the Assistant Tax Collector, the incumbent is required to: interact and communicate frequently with the public, government officials, other staff members and boards, and/or third parties transacting business with the City.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

Operates standard office equipment including computers and keyboards, at efficient speed; and move throughout the municipal building which may include flights of stairs. Lifts/moves objects weighing up to 10-20 pounds.

DIRECT REPORTS

Provide supervision to Principle Clerk(s). Supervisory activities include: assigning/reviewing work; establishing performance measures; providing performance feedback; participating in performance reviews; participating in the hiring process; conducting new employee orientation; providing training and development; scheduling time off.

HOURS

Monday – Friday, 35 hours per week

8:30AM – 4:00PM

SALARY

Starting salary $23.75 - $25.09 per hour

Annual increases up to $32.91 per hour

APPLICATION DEADLINE:

Friday, February 28, 2025 @ 4:00PM

Company Description

Nestled in the heart of the Berkshires, the City of Pittsfield is a vibrant and welcoming community that blends rich history with a forward-thinking outlook. As the cultural and economic hub of the region, Pittsfield offers a dynamic environment where innovation and tradition coexist harmoniously. Our city government is committed to fostering a high quality of life for all residents by delivering essential services, promoting sustainable growth, and championing a diverse and inclusive community.

Working for the City of Pittsfield means being part of a team dedicated to public service and making a real difference in the lives of our citizens. We pride ourselves on our collaborative approach, where employees are encouraged to contribute ideas and take initiative. Whether it’s enhancing public safety, improving infrastructure, or supporting our vibrant arts scene, every role within our organization plays a vital part in shaping the future of our city.

We are an affirmative action/equal opportunity employer committed to promoting a multicultural work force, excellence in public service, and on-going mutual respect in our working relationships. Minorities are encouraged to apply. We strongly encourage people of color, people with disabilities, LGBTQ community, and people from other underrepresented groups to apply for our open positions - recognizing and respecting that diverse perspectives and experiences are valuable to our team and essential to our public service.

Join us in our mission to build a stronger, more connected Pittsfield, where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.

Benefits

• Health Insurance
• Dental Insurance
• Life Insurance
• Retirement Savings Plan
• Up to 14 paid Holidays
• Personal Days
• Vacation Time
• Earned Sick Leave
• Employee Assistance Program
• Tuition Reimbursement