JOB SUMMARY

Under general supervision of the Director of Finance, the Utility Billing Specialist ensures accurate and timely billing of City of Belton fees for water, sewer, and garbage through oversight of the billing system software. Manages the billing print process and online payment system with third party contractors. Performs administrative and support functions pertaining to utility operations. Provides excellent customer service to citizens and employees.

SUPERVISION

RECEIVES direct supervision from the Director of Finance and Assistant Director of Finance.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

Essential functions, as defined under the Americans with Disabilities Act, may include any of the following representative duties, knowledge, and skills. This is not a comprehensive listing of all functions and duties performed by incumbents of this class; employees may be assigned duties which are not listed below; reasonable accommodations will be made as required. The job description does not constitute an employment agreement and is subject to change at any time by the employer. Essential duties and responsibilities may include, but are not limited to, the following:

Utility Billing Operations

• Perform all aspects of the utility billing function.
• Prepare and coordinate the reading/billing calendar to ensure timely reading, billing and collection of accounts.
• Manage the meter reading imports and review for variances; review high/low readings.
• Maintain the integrity of account balances by analyzing and preparing various adjustments to account balances.
• Manage and monitor the setup of new accounts.
• Update all address changes, transfers, and termination of accounts.
• Monitor deposit refund program and processes deposits for eligible accounts.
• Review and approve second notices, cut-offs for non-payment, penalty adjustments.
• Plan, schedule, and pursue collection activities necessary to collect utility receivables.
• Review and approve leak adjustments < $500.
• Prepare work orders and oversee these with field personnel.
• Update all new water and sewer taps, meter changes, etc.
• Manage and maintain the books and zones for utility accounts.
• Evaluate and implement policies and procedures that enhance the efficiency and productivity of the billing department.
• Interact with public and staff on a daily basis; answer inquiries, address complaints, grievances, emergencies, issues, and assist customers as needed.
• Maintain proper internal controls to ensure the safeguarding of all assets held in the billing office.
• Serve as the liaison between Finance and third-party bill print contractors.
• Maintain the billing tables/rate tables and manage the upgrade processes.
• Process bills for utilities four times per month from the computerized utility program.
• Process late notices from the computerized Utility program.
• Discuss and resolve billing and service complaints.

Other Duties

• Performs other job-related duties as assigned.
• Work closely with other departments on various projects.
• Monitor meter reading system and troubleshoot meters.
• Monitor citizen web requests and update department web pages when needed.
• Travels to attend meetings, conferences and training.
• Maintain applicable certifications required for the position.
• Performs other related duties as assigned by the Director of Finance.
• Regular and consistent attendance for the assigned work hours is essential.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Education, Training and Experience Guidelines:

A high school diploma or GED equivalent is required. A minimum of five years of progressive experience in a customer service and utility billing environment is required, preferably in a municipal setting. Any equivalent combination of education, experience and training that provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities may suffice for meeting the qualifications for this position.

Knowledge of:

• Municipal operations of utility business services.
• Effective customer service skills and techniques in a positive and professional manner.
• City ordinances, policies, rules and regulations regarding the payment of bills, late charges, extensions, etc.
• Government organization and administration.
• Time management techniques, with the ability to organize, schedule, assign, delegate, coordinate, and monitor the work to accomplish the most possible in the time available.
• Problem solving techniques for identifying problems, researching and determining the most appropriate course of action for resolution.
• Basic computer applications including proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint and Outlook), and use of the Internet is required.

Skills and Abilities:

• Skill in effective oral and written communication.
• Skill in resolving customer complaints and concerns with effective conflict management techniques.
• Skill in establishing and maintaining effective working relationships.
• Analyze, develop, and administer sound policy and procedural recommendations.
• Analyze, develop, and implement sound utility billing procedures.
• Meet the physical requirements necessary to safely and effectively perform the assigned duties.
• Prepare and analyze reports, analyses, and correspondence.
• Interpret applicable laws, rules, and regulations.
• Initiate assignments and perform with little supervision.
• Maintain effective working relationships with staff.
• Be punctual and regular in attendance.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS / ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS AND CONDITIONS

• Work is performed in a standard office environment.
• May be subject to repetitive motion such as typing, data entry and vision to monitor.
• May require standing, sitting, walking.
• May be subject to occasional lifting, carrying, bending, reaching, kneeling, pulling, crouching, and lifting.
• Must be able to sit for an extended period of time.
• Must be able to work in stressful situations.

Application deadline is 8:00 am on Thursday, May 23, 2024. 

Benefits include 100% employer paid employee only medical, dental, vision, and basic life insurance premiums. Paid vacation, holiday, and sick leave available. Participation in the Texas Municipal Retirement System is required, as well as Social Security deductions.

We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, age, national origin, disability status, genetic information, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.