Finance Assistant - Epping Forest District Council (EFDC)

Finance Assistant - Epping Forest District Council (EFDC)

Epping, Essex (Hybrid Working)

£19.00 PAYE | £24.37 Umbrella

36 Hours per Week

Temporary Contract (Initial 6 Months)

Closing Date: Wednesday 18th November 2026

Essex County Council is delighted to be working in partnership with Epping Forest District Council (EFDC) to recruit a Finance Assistant for an exciting six-month opportunity within their Corporate Finance Team.

This is an excellent opportunity for someone looking to develop their finance career within local government, gaining exposure to a wide range of financial accounting activities while supporting key services that make a real difference to local communities.

With a flexible hybrid working arrangement, you'll only be required to attend the office approximately two days per month, depending on business requirements.

Why Join Epping Forest District Council?

As a Finance Assistant, you'll become part of a supportive and professional finance team at the heart of the Council's financial operations. You'll gain valuable experience across financial reporting, treasury management, VAT, reconciliations, government returns and the preparation of annual accounts.

Whether you are already working in finance or looking to build on your existing qualifications and experience, this role offers excellent exposure to public sector finance and opportunities for continued professional development.

What You'll Be Doing

You'll play an important role in supporting the Council's Corporate Finance function by:

• Assisting with financial accounting and reporting activities
• Supporting the preparation of financial reports and analysis
• Processing bank transactions, purchase orders and invoices
• Maintaining accurate financial records and reconciliations
• Supporting VAT administration and Treasury Management activities
• Assisting with government returns and statutory reporting requirements
• Helping prepare the Council's annual Statement of Accounts
• Responding to finance-related queries from colleagues and stakeholders
• Supporting the administration and governance of the Council's Financial Management System

This is a varied role that offers exposure to multiple areas of finance, making it ideal for someone eager to broaden their skills and experience.

About You

We're looking for someone who is:

✅ Organised, proactive and detail-oriented

✅ Numerate with strong analytical and problem-solving skills

✅ Comfortable working independently and managing deadlines

✅ Confident communicating with a range of stakeholders

✅ Skilled in Microsoft Excel and other Microsoft Office applications

✅ Interested in developing a career within finance and accounting

You'll Ideally Have:

• A relevant finance qualification such as AAT, or equivalent practical experience
• Previous experience in a finance, accounting or administrative environment (desirable but not essential)
• An understanding of financial systems and reporting processes
• A commitment to continuous professional development

Knowledge of local government finance, treasury management or local authority accounting practices would be advantageous but is not essential.

What You'll Gain

• Flexible hybrid working
• Valuable local government finance experience
• Exposure to a broad range of accounting and financial reporting activities
• Opportunity to work alongside experienced finance professionals
• Supportive team environment
• Excellent experience for those studying towards finance qualifications or looking to progress their finance career

Apply Today

If you're looking for your next finance opportunity and want to develop your skills within a respected local authority, we'd love to hear from you.

To apply, please visit the Working for Essex website.

For an informal discussion or any questions regarding the role, please contact: Ashleigh.Drake@essex.gov.uk