Deputy Clerk
Shinfield Parish Council in Berkshire (near Reading)
Based at the School Green Centre, Shinfield, RG2 9EH
Part-Time (Flexible working 30 hours per week, including some evening meetings and occasional weekend work)
Salary: £35,412-£39,152 pro rata dependent upon experience
About Shinfield Parish Council
Shinfield Parish Council serves a vibrant and growing community in Berkshire, on the southern edge of Reading. The parish covers six distinct settlements with a diverse and expanding population.
The Council plays a key role in delivering local services and managing community assets, including green spaces and four main buildings. It is an ambitious and forward-thinking authority, actively engaged in community development, place-making, and improving quality of life for residents.
With a strong focus on governance, accountability, and community engagement, Shinfield Parish Council offers an exciting opportunity to contribute meaningfully to local democracy and public service.
About the Role
We are seeking a highly organised, motivated, and community-focused individual to join the Council as Deputy Clerk.
This is a pivotal role within a small and collaborative team, reporting to and supporting the Parish Clerk in ensuring the effective, lawful, and efficient running of the Council. You will deputise for the Clerk when required and take a lead on a range of operational, administrative, and governance functions.
The role offers significant variety, including committee administration, staff management, planning consultation, and community engagement.
Key Responsibilities
Governance and Administration
- Deputise for the Parish Clerk to ensure continuity of council operations
- Prepare agendas, reports, and minutes for Council and committee meetings
- Support the Council in meeting its statutory, legal, financial and governance obligations
- Assist in managing risk, insurance, and compliance processes
Committee and Member Support
- Attend Full Council, Planning & Highways, and Facilities Committee meetings (typically three meetings per month)
- Provide professional support to councillors and working parties
- Support decision-making processes through accurate reporting and record-keeping
Planning and Local Engagement
- Manage the council’s planning consultation process
- Collate and submit responses to planning applications
- Maintain accurate records of applications and decisions
Staff and HR Support
- Provide HR administrative support across the organisation
- Monitor probation periods and staff training records
- Work with external HR advisors to ensure compliance with employment legislation
Communications and IT
- Support the council’s communications and resident engagement
- Ensure, where relevant, website content is accurate and up to date
- Provide IT support for meetings, including hybrid/streamed meetings
General Duties
- Represent the Council externally when required
- Contribute to projects, reports, and initiatives
- Act as an ambassador for the Council and its services
About You
We are looking for someone who:
- Has strong organisational and administrative skills
- Is an excellent communicator, both written and verbal
- Can work independently and as part of a small team
- Demonstrates professionalism, discretion, and sound judgement
- Is adaptable and able to manage a varied workload
- Has experience working with the public and handling sensitive issues
Essential Requirements
- Good standard of education (Level 3 as a minimum - including English and Maths)
- Experience in administration or office management
- Strong IT skills and attention to detail
- Ability to attend evening meetings
Desirable
- Experience in local government or a similar environment
- Knowledge of council procedures and legal frameworks
- Certificate in Local Council Administration (CiLCA), or to obtain the qualification within 18 months of starting with the council
- Experience of managing staff or working with HR processes
What We Offer
- A varied and rewarding role in local government
- Opportunities for professional development, including CiLCA qualification
- A supportive and collaborative working environment
- The chance to make a tangible difference to the local community
How to Apply
For further details and an application pack, please visit or contact the Deputy Clerk, Sally on 0118 9888220 ext 509
Closing date: Sunday 26th July 2026
Interviews: Friday 31st July 2026
Additional Information
- The role requires flexibility, including attendance at evening meetings and occasional weekend working
- A valid driving licence and ability to travel locally is desirable
