Customer Service Assistant 1

Remote from: USA
Salary, yearly, USD: 43,860 - 45,614
Department: Customer Success
Employment type: Full Time,
Job posted: 7 May 2026
Apply before: 7 Jun 2026
Experience level: Entry-Level
Junior
Views / Applies: 1112 / 305

To improve the quality of life for all Ohioans through innovative and efficient government services.

Government Administration
1803

AI Summary

This entry-level Customer Service Assistant 1 role at the Ohio Department of Taxation involves answering taxpayer inquiries via phone, reviewing accounts, and providing scripted guidance on billing and refunds. The position is remote but requires initial onsite training and occasional meetings in Columbus. Candidates must reside in Ohio and have a stable internet connection. The job offers a starting salary of $21.93/hour with regular step increases, plus a comprehensive benefits package. This is a union-represented, classified position ideal for individuals seeking a career in public service with growth opportunities.

Job Complexity

Easy Hard

AI Insight The role is entry-level with structured training and scripted guidance, requiring only basic customer service and communication skills, making it relatively easy to perform.

Salary Analysis

AI Insight The offered salary range of $43,860 to $45,614 aligns with the lower end of the US market for customer service roles, which typically ranges from $30,000 to $50,000. The job includes regular step increases and benefits, making it competitive for an entry-level position in the public sector.

Key Skills

Customer Service Active Learning Verbal Communication Tax Knowledge Phone Support Problem Solving Data Entry Multitasking Attention to Detail Remote Work

Cover Letter Sample

Dear Hiring Manager,

I am excited to apply for the Customer Service Assistant 1 position at the Ohio Department of Taxation. With strong communication skills and a commitment to providing excellent service, I am eager to assist taxpayers with their inquiries and contribute to the agency's mission. I am particularly drawn to this role because of the comprehensive training and remote work opportunity, which align with my career goals. I look forward to the chance to discuss how my active learning and customer focus can benefit your team.

Sincerely,
[Your Name]

Possible Interview Questions

Can you describe a time when you had to handle a difficult customer over the phone?

Yes, in my previous role as a retail associate, I once dealt with a customer who was upset about a billing error. I listened actively, apologized for the inconvenience, and worked with my supervisor to resolve the issue promptly. The customer appreciated my patience and the quick resolution.

How do you stay organized when handling multiple phone calls and tasks simultaneously?

I prioritize tasks by urgency and use note-taking to track details. For example, I might jot down key information during a call and then follow up systematically. I also use tools like spreadsheets or CRM systems to manage my workflow efficiently.

Why are you interested in working for the Ohio Department of Taxation?

I am interested because I value public service and want to contribute to the efficient administration of state taxes. The opportunity for training and career advancement, along with the remote work option, makes this role very appealing. I also appreciate the agency's focus on teamwork and customer satisfaction.

How do you ensure accuracy when entering data or reviewing account information?

I double-check my work and use verification steps, such as confirming details with the taxpayer or cross-referencing system records. I also take my time to avoid rushing, as accuracy is crucial in tax-related tasks.

Describe a situation where you had to learn a new system or process quickly. How did you handle it?

In a previous job, I had to learn a new inventory management system within a week. I attended training sessions, practiced during downtime, and asked colleagues for tips. I also created a quick reference guide for myself. By the end of the week, I was proficient and able to train others.

Customer Service Assistant 1 (260003E8)

Organization

: TaxationAgency Contact Name and Information: Katie Schuler – [email protected] For all other inquiries please contact the HR Mainline at 614-466-3020 or email the staffing team at [email protected]

Unposting Date

: May 12, 2026, 3:59:00 AM

Work Location

: Northland 1st Floor 4485 Northland Ridge Boulevard Columbus 43229

Primary Location

: United States of America-OHIO-Franklin County-Columbus Compensation: $21.93

Schedule

: Full-timeClassified Indicator: ClassifiedUnion: OCSEA

Primary Job Skill

: Customer ServiceTechnical Skills: Customer ServiceProfessional Skills: Active Learning, Customer Focus, Verbal Communication Agency Overview

Creating a seamless and user-centric experience for all Ohio Taxpayers

Job Description

The Ohio Department of Taxation is responsible for the administration of individual and business taxes across the state. Guided by our Mission Statement, we are ONE TEAM providing education, innovation, outreach, and exceptional service to our customers through courtesy, accuracy, and responsiveness in each interaction. Taxation is committed to building a strong and skilled workforce. We invest in the development of each employee through comprehensive training, a competitive total compensation package that includes benefits (medical, dental, and vision insurance), tuition reimbursement, health and wellness programs, work-life balance initiatives, and opportunities for career advancement.

The Ohio Department of Taxation is seeking multiple talented candidates to fill entry level positions with the Customer Care Center.

What You’ll do as a Remote Customer Service Assistant 1

Play a crucial role in providing assistance to taxpayers by answering routine questions and inquires via consecutive phone calls.
Utilize taxation systems to review taxpayer accounts and to provide summary/scripted guidance regarding billing or assessment notices and status of refund claims.
Be given the opportunity to learn about and become knowledgeable of the various taxes assessed by the State of Ohio.
Undergo thorough training on a wide array of tax types such as individual income tax, school district withholding taxes, and business taxes.

This is a great “work from home” opportunity. On the first day of employment, newly hired Customer Service Assistants will be required to report to Taxation headquarters at 4485 Northland Ridge Blvd. Columbus, Ohio 43229 to fill out paperwork, retrieve their equipment and begin training. Additionally, we will give you all the training, technologies, and continuing support you’ll need to succeed. As a note, these roles will be required to come to Taxation headquarters for necessary meetings and/or trainings.

This will be a remote position with the exception of pre-scheduled training days onsite.

Computer Requirements:

The Ohio Department of Taxation will provide any necessary equipment.

Internet Requirements:

DSL, Cable, or Fiber connection (Satellite and Wireless/Hotspots are not acceptable).
Speeds: 25 mbps download and 10 mbps upload or higher.
Must reside in Ohio and have a valid Ohio address for residence.

The selected candidate will begin at Pay Grade 27, Step 1 ($21.93/hour or $45,614/annually) of the OCSEA Pay Range Schedule, with annual pay increases after 4 months of satisfactory performance.

OCSEA Pay Range 27

Step 1

Step 2

Step 3

Step 4

Step 5

Step 6

Step 7

Time in Classification

0 Months

4 Months

16 Months

28 Months

40 Months

52 Months

64 Months

Hourly Rate

$21.93

$22.60

$22.96

$23.56

$24.16

$24.86

$25.77

To request a reasonable accommodation due to disability for the application or interview process, please contact ADA Coordinator J.D. Hawkins by phone: 614-387-1782 or by email to: [email protected].

A full Position Description will be provided during the interview process.

Why Work for the State of Ohio

At the State of Ohio, we take care of the team that cares for Ohioans. We provide a variety of quality, competitive benefits to eligible full-time and part-time employees*. For a list of all the State of Ohio Benefits, visit our Total Rewards website! Our benefits package includes:

Medical Coverage
Free Dental, Vision and Basic Life Insurance premiums after completion of eligibility period
Paid time off, including vacation, personal, sick leave and 11 paid holidays per year
Childbirth, Adoption, and Foster Care leave
Education and Development Opportunities (Employee Development Funds, Public Service Loan Forgiveness, and more)
Public Retirement Systems (such as OPERS, STRS, SERS, and HPRS) & Optional Deferred Compensation (Ohio Deferred Compensation)

*Benefits eligibility is dependent on a number of factors. The Agency Contact listed above will be able to provide specific benefits information for this position.

Qualifications

3 mos. trg. or 3 mos. exp. in office practices & procedures; 1 course or 3 mos. exp. in public relations or customer service to include techniques for dealing with difficult people; 1 course or 3 mos. exp. in typing, keyboarding, data entry or word processing; 1 course or 3 mos. exp. in operation of personal computer.
-Or equivalent of Minimum Qualifications for Employment noted above. Note: in the telecommunications section, within the Ohio Department of Public Safety, employees will automatically be reassigned to the Customer Services Assistant 2, 64432 classification after serving 6 months as a Customer Service Assistant 1, 64431.
Technical Skills: Customer Service

Professional Skills: Active Learning, Customer Focus, and Verbal Communication

Supplemental Information

The final candidate selected for the position will be required to undergo a criminal background check. Section 2961 of the Ohio Revised Code prohibits individuals convicted of a felony including but not limited to fraud, deceit, or theft from holding a position that has substantial management or control over the property of a state agency. Additionally, section 5703.081 of the Ohio Revised Code requires the Ohio Department of Taxation employees to promptly file and pay tax returns.

ADA Statement

Ohio is a Disability Inclusion State and strives to be a model employer of individuals with disabilities. The State of Ohio is committed to providing access and inclusion and reasonable accommodation in its services, activities, programs and employment opportunities in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and other applicable laws.

Drug-Free Workplace

The State of Ohio is a drug-free workplace which prohibits the use of marijuana (recreational marijuana/non-medical cannabis). Please note, this position may be subject to additional restrictions pursuant to the State of Ohio Drug-Free Workplace Policy (HR-39), and as outlined in the posting.

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