Definition

The Assistant Treasurer/Collector is appointed by the Town Manager and is sworn to the faithful performance of duty. The position has professional and administrative responsibilities to assist the Treasurer/Collector in fulfilling the responsibilities and related work in the treasury and collection functions of the department.

Supervision

Works under the direct supervision of the Treasurer/Collector.

Job Environment

The position has regular contact with the general public requiring common courtesy and sensitivity. Thoroughness, attention to detail, accuracy, the ability to manage difficult and stressful situations, and multitasking capabilities are required.

Office hours are Monday-Friday from 8:30 am to 4:30 pm. Benefits include health insurance, dental, life insurance, and municipal retirement. Vacation, sick, and personal time per the town's personnel policy.

Essential Functions The essential functions or duties listed below are intended only as illustrations of the various types of work that may be performed. The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related, or a logical assignment to the position.

• Assists billing; tax, excise, and utility to ensure statutory deadlines are met and control workflow; motor vehicle excise commitment and billing; tracks excise and ensures timely movement through the collection process; lien processing for property taxes and taking of property for non-payment of taxes; maintenance of tax title accounts.
• Composes and reviews routine correspondence; answers questions, in person, by email, and by telephone; explains tax collection procedures and regulations; researches questions and investigates complaints and resolves them within a reasonable period; assists taxpayers in understanding tax bills and related documents; explains and enforces departmental procedures.
• Process vouchers for refunds, abatements, and overpayments.
• Supports the Treasurer/Collector with the completion of internal audits and those completed by outside auditors; schedules all preparatory work in connection with the annual audit of the town’s books and records in order to ensure prompt and efficient collection of data for the auditors.
• Reconciles cash and receivables, and other receipts that are collected by the department; receives payments; posts receipts; verifies posted totals with total receipts; sets up outstanding balances for an audit trail.
• Oversees the collection of delinquent accounts; which may involve trips to the Registry of Deeds and Land Court to conduct research necessary to prepare accurate tax taking.
• Maintains a record of returned checks; seeks restitution from the maker; adjusts records and commitments accordingly.
• Manages municipal funds

Special Requirements

Applicant must use a customer service-oriented approach to dealing with the public. Knowledge, comfort, and familiarity with Windows, Microsoft Suite, and web cloud-based applications. Strong attention to detail, accuracy, dependability, and a high level of discretion are essential.

Physical Requirements

Most work is done in an office setting and requires minimal physical effort. The applicant must be able to operate general office equipment, such as a computer, calculator, printer, copy machine, and telephone. 

The Town of Williamstown is an EEO employer.  The position will remain open until filled.

Required Minimum Qualifications

Bachelor's degree in business or public administration, banking/finance, accounting, or related field; three to five years of experience in accounting, banking or business, collections, office management, or other related work; experience in a municipal setting and/or dealing with the public is preferred; any equivalent combination of education and experience.

Requires strong mathematical skills and the ability to express oneself clearly, orally, and in writing. The individual must have a high proficiency in the use of spreadsheet and word-processing software applications. Must be able to maintain personal and confidential information.

Preferred Minimum Qualifications

A thorough knowledge of municipal accounting, banking principles, tax collection practices, and procedures with a general understanding of state laws pertaining to municipal finance and tax collection and a working knowledge of the organization and operation of town government. Experience with Munis (software).