Assistant Accountant
Fixed Term, 12 month contract
Full Time, 37 hours per week
£36,936 to £43,455 per annum
Location: Chelmsford
Working Style:
Closing Date: 6th April 2026
The Role
The Assistant Accountant is responsible for the preparation of high-quality financial advice, information, analysis and challenge to budget holders across the financial cycle. You will be the Finance Contact responsible for a specified service area where you’ll need to deliver timely and accurate financial information and advice to front line budget holders to ensure effective management of their budgets and assist them in carrying out their financial duties.
You will support the Management Accountant team in consolidating financial reporting to the Financial Controller, Heads of Finance and Functional Leadership Teams across the financial cycle and actively participate and contribute towards projects.
You will build effective relationships with internal budget holders and external partners and be able to influence, contribute and challenge at budget holder meetings to ensure financial forecasts and future budget plans are based on robust financial information.
You will be an AAT qualified professional with strong technical, excel and systems knowledge to actively contribute and support/instruct/advise budget holders in accordance with Financial Regulations and accounting standards.
The Experience You Will Bring
1. Minimum full AAT qualification or equivalent plus one years’ experience
2. Evidence of continuing professional development and expert knowledge in relevant professional area
3. Knowledge and understanding of financial management, financial planning and management for budgets and experience of providing financial advice to budget holders
4. Experience of working with a range of financial systems and processes
5. Advanced Excel skills
6. Evidence of working collaboratively and engaging with Senior Managers and finance colleagues, together with good communication skills
7. Experience of working in a large complex organisation and contributing to change
8. Experience of supporting multi-disciplinary teams to achieve service outcomes
Why Essex?
As one of the largest and most dynamic UK local authorities, Essex offers a stimulating public service environment. Covering over 1,420 square miles and serving 1.8 million residents, we’re committed to transformational change and delivering better quality at lower cost. Recognised in the top three of the latest IMPOWER index for productivity, we ensure everyone matters in. With flexible working options and a focus on innovation, whether you are looking to develop your career or contribute to the local community, Essex is the ideal place for you.
In February 2025, Greater Essex was accepted onto the Government’s devolution priority programme, which will see local authorities in Essex work towards establishing a Mayoral Combined County Authority by May 2026. You can read more about
, including throughout the recruitment process. Your commitment to these standards helps us maintain a positive and respectful workplace for everyone.
Essex County Council is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and vulnerable adults, and expects all employees and volunteers to share this commitment.
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