Job ID #32097: Vacant Unit Tax Analyst

City of Hamilton • Hamilton, ON

11d • CA$79,862 - CA$99,827 • Onsite

About The Position

This position is responsible for administering the processing of the Vacant Unit Tax Program. The role involves liaising with the Taxation Division for tax billing, managing business applications related to the program, and handling confidential financial information. The City of Hamilton is seeking a dedicated individual to join their team and contribute to the city's vision of being the best place to raise a child and age successfully.

Requirements

• Demonstrated knowledge of business accounting normally acquired by attaining a Community College diploma in a Business, Accounting, Business Administration program or an equivalent combination of education and work-related experience.
• Demonstrated thorough working knowledge and experience in the application and interpretation of Property Tax & Assessment Legislation and Municipal By-laws as it pertains to Municipal Act appeals and property tax rebate programs.
• Experience and proficiency in a computerized environment with working knowledge of Word, Excel and database software.
• Ability to input data at an acceptable speed and to manipulate data within excel spreadsheets.
• Strong customer service, interpersonal, consultative, problem-solving and analytical skills.
• Ability to deal courteously and effectively with the general public, staff, other levels of government and elected officials in potentially contentious situations.
• Ability to handle complaints.
• Strong organizational skills.
• Ability to multi-task in order to meet legislative deadlines and work with minimal supervision.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

Nice To Haves

• Demonstrated knowledge and experience working with a property tax billing system and an accounting software system within a computerized environment.
• A demonstrated ability to calculate property tax adjustments.

Responsibilities

• Identify properties eligible for the Vacant Unit Tax and ensure they are billed accordingly in coordination with the Taxation section.
• Receive and answer inquiries from staff, the public, government agencies, tax consultants, and lawyers.
• Provide support, information, and advice to customers and staff on complicated tax accounts.
• Complete tasks and handle inquiries pertaining to Vacant Unit Tax declarations.
• Analyze and resolve concerns and inquiries from property owners and/or applicants, coordinating discussions to reach resolutions.
• Receive, review, and ensure complaints and appeals submitted by taxpayers meet established criteria and include adequate information and supporting documentation.
• Assist in the evaluation of the Vacant Unit Tax program administration and complaint process, providing guidance and oversight to staff for improvements and streamlining processes.
• Monitor and track financial impacts of the Vacant Unit Tax program, preparing statistical analysis and reports.
• Assist with the preparation of accurate, timely, strategic reports, presentations, and materials for senior management and Council.
• Calculate adjustments for approved complaint applications or assessment appeals, ensuring completion of any required adjustments for penalty and interest, refunds, etc.
• Review and report on legislative changes and their impact on program administration.
• Prepare By-Laws related to the Vacant Unit Tax Program for Council approval.
• Prepare and/or coordinate all communication materials related to the program.
• Maintain current knowledge of relevant assessment and property tax legislation, including the Municipal Act, the Assessment Act, and Municipal by-laws affecting the Vacant Unit Tax process.
• Liaise with Provincial staff and staff from other municipalities.
• Work in accordance with applicable health and safety legislation and City of Hamilton corporate and departmental policies and procedures.
• Perform other assigned duties directly related to the responsibilities of the position.

Benefits

• This salary is based on a preliminary evaluation and is under review. This position may be re-evaluated within six months of the filling of this position.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: Associate degree