Tax Collector #2402-5154-01

Are you ready to take on a dynamic role that plays a crucial part in the financial heartbeat of our community? We are seeking a talented and dedicated Tax Collector to join our team and lead the charge in ensuring the efficient collection of municipal taxes. Under the guidance of the Budget Director and Controller, you'll dive into a realm of responsibility that involves meticulous planning, strategic organization, and impeccable execution. From overseeing daily collections to navigating complex state statutes, you'll be at the forefront of maintaining fiscal integrity and driving revenue growth. If you're passionate about making a tangible impact, thrive in a fast-paced environment, and possess a knack for leadership, we want you on our team. Join us in shaping the financial landscape of our city and embark on a rewarding journey where your skills and dedication are truly valued.

Under the general supervision of the Budget Director and Controller, the Tax Collector performs highly responsible professional work involving planning, organizing, billing, and administering the collection of municipal taxes, such as current and delinquent motor vehicle, real property and personal property taxes, and related revenue in accordance with Connecticut General Statues and City Charter/Code Of Ordinances.

Responsibilities include planning and coordination of tax collection efforts in preparing tax bills from the City’s Grand List furnished by the City Assessor’s office, reporting of collections daily, quarterly, and year end reports, oversight of cash management, and enforcement actions authorized by state statutes.

• Supervises department staff and ensures efficient workflow of office operations.
• Implements collection procedures in accordance with State Statutes including filing of tax liens.
• Responsible for monitoring and implementing changes in state statute(s) relating to tax collection and billing.
• Manages the billing and collection of real estate, motor vehicle and personal property taxes.
• Oversees the reconciliation of total collections to bank deposits, tax system software and the City's general ledger system.
• Responsible for and required to report collections on a daily, quarterly, and annual basis to appropriate City department(s) and OPM.
• Responsible for preparing annual fiscal reports for the State, City, and auditors.
• Interacts with the Assessor in recording of new or amended property information concerning special assessments approved by the Board of Alders. Must be able to review, understand and implement fixed tax assessments, tax abatements and tax appeals as approved by the Board of Alders or as ordered by the Superior Court.
• Interacts with other City departments (Economic Development, Corporation Counsel, Livable City Initiative, Building, etc) in providing information concerning status of property tax(es).
• Responsible for reviewing delinquent tax accounts and implementing collection as allowed by State Statute.
• Responsible for sending demand /delinquent letters as required by State Statute prior to instituting formal collection action.
• Responsible for filing Certificate of Continuing liens and preparing Alias Tax Warrants for collection purposes.
• Refers and oversees outside attorneys, marshals, and any other vendors in the collection process.
• Provides testimony in civil actions when needed.
• Coordinates with other City departments (Accounts Payable, Health Department, Accounts Receivable) as it relates to delinquent taxes and the issuance/revoking of permits, licenses, etc.
• Oversees staff in the training of new personnel.
• Makes decisions based on knowledge of State Statutes.
• May assist in other revenue collection efforts in coordination with Accounts Receivable and other City agencies.
• Performs related work as required.

• Extensive knowledge of state statutes governing the billing and collection of taxes.
• Ability to apply principles of the city’s tax accounting system, including policies and tax reporting requirements.
• Thorough knowledge of financial accounting principles and procedures for tax collection, including auditing of department records, cash management and budgeting.
• Must possess knowledge of the Connecticut Judicial foreclosure process.
• Ability to plan, assign, and direct the work of a staff engaged in tax collection.
• Demonstrated ability to provide excellent customer service and to mentor and direct staff to do the same.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with department heads, staff, and other stakeholders such as attorneys, marshals, DMV, software vendors, associates, subordinates, banks, officials of other agencies, and the public.
• Ability to maintain complex records and to recognize various factors affecting the tax collection program and to make specific recommendations for changes and improvements.
• Must possess superior oral and written communication skills to interact with the public and colleagues.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality.
• Ability to handle and diffuse difficult situations at times.
• Must be able to interpret, analyze and formulate a conclusion based on established governing statute(s) or law.
• Must have strong computer skills and experience with tax software (QDS) and Microsoft Office products.
• Must be able to work within established time frames.
• Ability to work during stressful periods.
• Ability to work independently.
• Strong attention to detail and organizational skills.

• Ability to work long hours, including evenings, as required.
• Attendance at Tax Abatement, Finance, Mayor’s meetings, as required.

Candidates are required to submit their comprehensive resumes, academic records, certifications, professional accomplishments, and any other relevant documents, so that we may assess qualifications.This credential review will evaluate the practical skills, experience, expertise, and achievements of the candidates.

It is critical that you complete the application thoroughly, as the information you provide will be used to ascertain if you are eligible to move forward in the selection process, and this information may be used to determine the eligibility list. As such, this job announcement should be considered the exam announcement.

Information regarding the employment and selection process can be found HERE.

Please note that the only method of communication with applicants for this position will be by email. You must provide a valid, working email address and you will need to monitor your email, including spam/junk folders, for correspondence from the New Haven Human Resources Department.