Assistant Financial Accountant

Job summary

An exciting opportunity to develop your financial accounting knowledge within an NHS organisation; where you will have the opportunity to improve processes, take responsibility for day-to-day services and help drive strong audit compliance.

Main duties of the job

This 12-month fixed-term role offers the opportunity to expand financial accounting knowledge while managing day-to-day financial accounting services, enhancing finance processes and ensuring audit readiness. The Assistant Financial Accountant supports the Senior Financial Accountant with providing accurate and timely financial accounting support across the Trust's core financial services. The postholder will manage day-to-day financial accounting activities, contribute to the production of the Annual Report and Accounts, and support the wider Financial Services team during year-end and Audit.

About us

The Princess Alexandra Hospital NHS Trust (PAHT) is proud to care for the communities of West Essex, delivering safe, compassionate, and high-quality services. We are part of the Neighbourhood Wave; a national programme thats changing how care is delivered by focusing on prevention, early support, and more joined-up services across health, social care, and the voluntary sector. This means were working more closely with local partners to bring care closer to home and support people to live healthier, more independent lives. Were a supportive and inclusive organisation that values its people. We offer development opportunities, flexible working, and a strong focus on wellbeing. As a Disability Confident and equal opportunities employer, we welcome applicants from all backgrounds and experiences. Join us and help shape the future of care in West Essex.

Details

• Date posted: 14 October 2026
• Pay scheme: Agenda for change
• Band: Band 6
• Salary: £39,959 to £48,117 a year
• Contract: Fixed term
• Duration: 12 months
• Working pattern: Full-time
• Reference number: 001218
• Job locations: Kao Park, Harlow, Essex, CM17 9NA, United Kingdom

Job responsibilities

Main duties of the job

• Support the Senior Financial Accountant in the production of the Trust's financial accounts.
• Ensure accurate administration of salary sacrifice schemes, such as Cycle to Work and Car Lease schemes, in partnership with Payroll.
• Manage administration of Trust purchase cards and ensure financial controls operate effectively.
• Day-to-day management of the Injury Cost Recovery scheme.
• Ensure accurate accounting of VAT with the support of an advisor for complex issues and partial exemption calculations.
• Support completion of the agreement of balances process.
• Assist the Senior Financial Accountant with ad hoc duties.

Detailed job description and main responsibilities The post holder will be responsible for managing their own workload, prioritising tasks effectively, and ensuring deadlines are met. They will be expected to work independently as well as part of a team, demonstrating flexibility and a commitment to high standards. The role may involve working with multiple stakeholders and requires excellent communication and organisational skills.

For a detailed breakdown of requirements and responsibilities, please see the attached job description.