Job Description: Utility Customer Service Representative
Position: Utility Customer Service Representative
Department: Energy and Utilities > Utility Management
Reports to: Customer Service Manager
Job Summary:
The Utility Customer Service Representative is responsible for providing exceptional customer service to utility customers, addressing their inquiries, resolving complaints, and ensuring accurate and timely billing and payment processes. This role requires an in-depth understanding of utility operations, policies, and procedures to effectively handle customer concerns and deliver a positive customer experience.
Responsibilities:
1. Respond to customer inquiries promptly and professionally via telephone, email, or in-person, ensuring a high level of customer satisfaction.
2. Provide accurate and detailed information regarding utility services, billing, payments, policies, and procedures.
3. Address customer complaints and issues effectively, escalating complex matters to higher levels of management when necessary.
4. Process utility service requests, such as new connections, disconnections, and meter changes, ensuring accuracy and compliance with established protocols.
5. Assist customers in navigating the utility website, online portals, and self-service options, providing guidance and troubleshooting as needed.
6. Handle billing inquiries, disputes, and adjustments, ensuring accuracy and adherence to billing standards.
7. Collaborate with internal departments, such as metering, billing, and collections, to resolve customer issues and ensure smooth operation of utility services.
8. Maintain comprehensive customer records, documenting interactions, inquiries, complaints, and resolutions accurately and thoroughly.
9. Assist in the preparation and distribution of utility bills, ensuring accuracy, timeliness, and adherence to regulatory guidelines.
10. Process customer payments, both in-person and through various electronic payment systems, ensuring accuracy and maintaining security protocols.
11. Stay updated with utility regulations, policies, and procedures to provide accurate and up-to-date information to customers.
12. Participate in training and development programs to enhance product knowledge, customer service skills, and overall job performance.
13. Continuously identify opportunities for process improvements to enhance customer service and operational efficiency.
14. Adhere to confidentiality and data protection policies to safeguard customer information.
Qualifications and Skills:
1. High school diploma or equivalent; Bachelor's degree in a related field is preferred.
2. Proven experience in a customer service role, preferably within the energy or utilities industry.
3. Excellent verbal and written communication skills with the ability to effectively interact with customers, both in-person and remotely.
4. Strong problem-solving and conflict resolution abilities, with a focus on providing satisfactory solutions to customers.
5. Proficient in using customer service software, databases, and Microsoft Office Suite.
6. Demonstrated ability to multitask, prioritize, and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
7. Detail-oriented with strong organizational skills to maintain accurate records and manage customer accounts efficiently.
8. Ability to work independently and as part of a team, collaborating with colleagues and departments to achieve departmental goals.
9. Knowledge of utility operations, billing systems, and regulatory guidelines is highly desirable.
10. Flexibility to work occasional evenings, weekends, or holidays, based on customer demand or business requirements.
Note: This job description outlines the general nature and level of work performed by individuals assigned to this position. It does not contain a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities, and qualifications required. The organization reserves the right to modify, interpret, or apply this job description in any way the company desires.