Customer Support Assistant – Temporary Contract – Essex County Council

Location: Clacton-on-Sea, Essex
Rate: £17.56 per hour (Umbrella)
Contract Duration: Up to 6 months
Work Hours: Full Time
Work Arrangement: Fully Office-Based
Payment Frequency: Bi-weekly
Application Deadline: 14 September 2026

Summary

Essex County Council is seeking a dedicated Customer Support Assistant for a full-time temporary position. This role involves managing customer inquiries related to Environmental Services, including Waste Management and Recycling. It is an excellent opportunity for individuals with strong customer service and administrative skills who thrive in dynamic environments and are committed to delivering exceptional service. The position requires on-site work to effectively support the team and customers.

Responsibilities

• Address customer inquiries via phone, email, and face-to-face interactions.
  
• Provide precise information on:
  • Environmental Services
    
  • Waste Management
    
  • Recycling Services
    
  • Other Council services
    
• Guide customers to the appropriate department or officer when necessary.
  
• Consistently deliver outstanding customer service.
  
• Offer administrative support to the department.
  
• Keep accurate records and update internal systems.
  
• Adapt to changing service demands and workload priorities.
  
• Enhance and maintain knowledge of Council services and objectives.
  
• Participate in training sessions, team meetings, and briefings.
  
• Contribute to the continuous improvement of customer service delivery.
  
• Perform additional duties as appropriate to the role's grade.
  

Essential

Requirements

Requirements:

• GCSEs (or equivalent) in:
  • English
    
  • Mathematics
    
• Experience in a customer service or administrative role.
  
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
  
• Excellent telephone etiquette.
  
• Ability to work effectively in a busy, customer-focused environment.
  
• Good organizational skills and attention to detail.
  
• Proficient IT skills, including:
  • Microsoft Word
    
  • Microsoft Excel
    
  • Microsoft Outlook
    
• Capability to work independently and collaboratively within a team.
  

Desirable

• NVQ Level 2 in Customer Service or equivalent.
  
• Previous experience in a Local Authority or Public Sector setting.
  
• Familiarity with Environmental Services, Waste Management, or Recycling services.
  

Personal Attributes

The ideal candidate will exhibit:

• A strong customer-focused approach.
  
• Excellent relationship-building skills.
  
• Ability to perform well under pressure.
  
• Strong team collaboration skills.
  
• Adaptability and eagerness to learn.
  
• A professional and positive demeanor.
  

What's on Offer?

• £17.56 per hour (Umbrella)
  
• Up to 6-month contract
  
• Fully office-based role
  
• Location: Clacton-on-Sea, Essex
  
• Bi-weekly pay
  
• Opportunity to join a dynamic and supportive team at Essex County Council
  
• A varied role in customer service and administration
  
• Immediate start available
  

This position is ideal for candidates with experience as a Customer Support Assistant, Customer Service Advisor, Contact Centre Advisor, Customer Services Officer, Administrative Assistant, Helpdesk Advisor, Customer Experience Advisor, or Environmental Services Support Officer.