Billing Technician - Utility Dept. at Pueblo of Zuni in Zuni, NM

BILLING TECHNICIAN

FT/REGULAR

NE - LEVEL 6

SALARY: $17.03

GENERAL DEFINITION:   The primary responsibility of this position is to manage and monitor Zuni Pueblo’s Utility Billing and to ensure efficient operation in areas of account set-up and management, customer relations, and records management.

SUPERVISION RECEIVED:  Work is performed under the general supervision of the Utilities Director.

SUPERVISION EXERCISED:   No Supervisory Duties

DUTIES:

Manages Customer billing procedures such as bookkeeping, information management, filing systems, and other services through Utility Billing Software.

• Accepts applications for water services, transfer of accounts, payment agreements, and deposits.
• Oversees records of Water Agreements, and/or accounts, and acts as liaison with customers to collect utility service fees (i.e. new service requests, Line Extension & deposit fees).
• Formulates procedures for systematic retention, protection, retrieval, transfer, and disposal of Customer billing records.
• Creates and maintains the Utility Department billing database and spreadsheet Maintains lists of all water accounts, requests for service, and Utility Agreements and tracks all related deadlines.
• Develops and prepares special reports and summaries, replies to inquiries, letters, memorandums, and billing inquiries.
• Coordinates with the Utility Department Manager to establish/maintain Utility Billing operating policies and
• Prepares water account listing for the Tribal Cashier on a monthly basis, including delinquent
• Collaborates with the Finance Department to reconcile customer accounts and address billing related

Responsible for the accurate and timely preparation and submission of Disconnection notices and other inquiries that require utility services.

• Processes work orders and other methods to establish invoices for the cost of services provided to
• Contact other departments within the organization and local businesses to follow-up and request additional information for delinquent accounts.
• Retrieves and researches records for customers from referring departments e., ZHA and Zuni Rental.
• Research customer records, identifies incorrect or missing account information
• Works closely with Zuni Housing Authority to have accounts established and updated for their
• Serves as a technical resource for the Program billing system, provides training to subordinates to ensure continuity of services when absent.
• Assures the accuracy of customer data so that correct billing documents are
• Responsible for the accurate and timely preparation and submission of Disconnection notices and other inquiries that require utility services.

Administers and participates in operating procedures for daily workload activity and Monthly water billing system.

• Maintains customers’ water accounts. 
• Assists customers with billing questions and/or provides inquiries on a daily
• Prepares monthly water billings, posts daily payments and monthly meter readings using Sequoyah & Sensus Meter Reading Software.
• Enters membership updates and creates new accounts for
• Prepares water statement reports
• Inform customers and applicants of Utility Department guidelines for receipt of
• Works closely with the Meter Reader to ensure accurate meter readings are recorded in the
• Reconciles billing and delinquent files; monitors utility accounts; issues adjustments as required.
  

Monitors issues within and among programs. 

• Assists Utility Department Manager with budget and audit preparation, as requested, including revenue projections and account monitoring.
• Analyzes customer data for inconsistencies. 
• Comprehends and comply with tribal, federal, state, county, and other regulatory agency laws, and regulations pertaining to utility billing and customer confidentiality practices.
• Utilize two-way radio to contact utility staff when emergencies arise.

Performs other duties as may be assigned.

• Assists Administrative Assistant IV as needed.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES: Must have highly developed ability to organize information and prioritize work to departmental goals. Must have the ability to juggle multiple tasks. Knowledge of alternate resources and the billing process. Knowledge of Utility Department policies and procedures. Knowledge of Utility Billing Software. Knowledge of procedures in business communications, accounting and records management. Knowledge in management systems and administrative processes. Knowledge of software applications and financial management systems. Ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing. Ability to maintain confidentiality. Ability to utilize a computer by creating and maintaining computerized databases. Ability to work independently. Ability to exercise sound and rational judgment. Ability to successfully and effectively function under multiple deadlines and task timelines. Skillful in developing positive customer relations and providing excellent customer service. Ability to establish and maintain an effective working relationship with tribal employees, customers, and the general public.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE: Associate’s Degree in Accounting with two (2) years experience, preferably as a Billing Specialist or equivalent.  OR  High School diploma or GED with four (4) years of progressively responsible work experience as Billing Clerk or equivalent.

LICENSE AND CERTIFICATION: Valid New Mexico Driver's License with no DWI/DUI convictions within the past three (3) years. Must be insurable.  Driving is an essential part of the duties.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS/ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS: Work is performed mostly in an office setting with occasional walking, bending, lifting or minimal physical exertion. Must be capable of functioning in a fast-paced, high-stress environment with multiple priorities and deadlines; and be able to withstand the pressure of demands in an atmosphere of constant change.  Some outdoor work is required in visiting various land use developments, construction sites, or public works facilities.  

SPECIAL WORKING CONDITIONS: Position is subject to Pre-Employment drug testing. Position is Safety Sensitive and will be subject to random drug screening for duration of employment.  Must be able to cope with stressful situations and provide effective customer service. Must undergo a thorough background check.