At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage payroll, prepare reports, and support finance projects in a dynamic team.
- Company: Join Coherent Corp, a leader in photonics shaping high-tech industries.
- Benefits: Gain valuable experience, develop skills, and work in a collaborative environment.
- Other info: Opportunity for career growth in a supportive and innovative workplace.
- Why this job: Enhance your accounting expertise while making a real impact in a global company.
- Qualifications: Experience in finance or accounting, strong Excel skills, and a proactive attitude.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
Coherent Corp is the global leader in photonics, designing and manufacturing advanced laser, optical, and materials technologies. Our innovations power semiconductor manufacturing, AI infrastructure, advanced communications, and precision industrial systems worldwide. With a global footprint and cutting-edge manufacturing and R&D, we’re shaping the future of high-tech industries.
In Scotland, our site is a key centre for laser and ultrafast laser technology, specialising in the development, manufacture, and lifecycle support of advanced laser systems for demanding industrial and scientific applications. Working closely with teams across our global network, we combine deep engineering expertise with collaborative innovation to deliver high-performance, reliable laser solutions with real-world impact.
We are seeking a proactive and self-motivated Assistant Accountant to join our growing Finance team on an 8-month fixed-term contract to cover a period of maternity leave. This is a busy and varied role offering the opportunity to develop your accounting skills while contributing to a small, collaborative team. The successful candidate will bring a meticulous and organised approach to their work, with strong prioritisation and workload management skills to deliver high-quality support in a fast-paced environment.
Key Responsibilities
- Manage and process monthly payroll and respond to payroll queries.
- Prepare payroll journals and support payroll-related month-end activities.
- Execute weekly UK and international payment runs.
- Process monthly intercompany settlements and quarterly recharges.
- Prepare month-end reports and corporate reporting schedules.
- Complete balance sheet, bank and intercompany reconciliations.
- Prepare and submit monthly VAT returns.
- Maintain fixed asset records and reconciliations.
- Support weekly cash flow forecasting and treasury reporting.
- Assist with continuous process improvements and ad hoc finance projects.
- Provide cover and support across the Finance team when required.
About You
- Experience in an accounting or finance role with payroll responsibilities.
- Studying towards, or qualified through, a recognised accounting qualification (AAT, ACCA, CIMA or equivalent).
- Strong Excel skills and experience using ERP/accounting systems (Oracle preferred).
- Good understanding of payroll processes and month-end accounting.
- Strong organisational skills with the ability to manage competing priorities.
- Excellent attention to detail and a commitment to accuracy.
- Strong communication and relationship-building skills.
Desirable
- Experience in a manufacturing, shared services or multinational environment.
- Knowledge of Lean or continuous improvement methodologies.
- Experience with VAT reporting and intercompany accounting.
What You'll Bring
- A collaborative and positive approach.
- Accountability and ownership of your work.
- Strong problem-solving skills.
- Adaptability and resilience in a changing environment.
- A continuous improvement mindset.
This role offers an excellent opportunity to develop your accounting and payroll expertise while gaining exposure to a broad range of finance activities within a growing organisation.
Ensure adherence to company’s values (ICARE) in all aspects of your position:
- Integrity – Create an Environment of Trust
- Collaboration – Innovate Through the Sharing of Ideas
- Accountability – Own the Process and the Outcome
- Respect – Recognize the Value in Everyone
- Enthusiasm – Find a Sense of Purpose in Work
APPLICATION & SELECTION
Current employees who wish to apply should submit a cover letter detailing their interest in the position and how their skills and experience align with the requirements of the role. We are committed to creating an inclusive and accessible recruitment experience and encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds.
Accounting Assistant & Payroll Administrator - Fixed Term in Glasgow employer: Coherent
As a Lead BI Analyst at our company, you will thrive in a dynamic work culture that values integrity, collaboration, and enthusiasm. We offer robust employee growth opportunities through continuous training and development, alongside a commitment to data-driven decision-making that empowers you to make a meaningful impact. Located in a vibrant area, our organisation promotes a healthy work-life balance and fosters an inclusive environment where every voice is valued.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Accounting Assistant & Payroll Administrator - Fixed Term in Glasgow
✨Join Financial Networking Events
Jump into local finance meetups and conferences — they’re a goldmine for temporary roles in banking and financial services. You can chat with industry professionals and even get leads on upcoming opportunities that might not be posted online yet.
✨Utilise Temp Agencies Specialised in Finance
Reach out to temp agencies that focus on the banking sector. They often have strong ties with various firms and can help you secure short-term gigs that can help beef up your CV and get your foot in the door at firms like Coherent.
✨Connect with Alumni from Your Uni
Don't underestimate the power of your university’s alumni network. Many former students are working in banking and can help you find temporary roles or even offer mentorship. Reach out directly or attend alumni events to broaden your circle.
✨Stay Active on Job Boards and Company Websites
Keep your eyes peeled on job boards specifically for finance roles. Companies like Coherent might post temporary positions directly on their sites, so make sure to apply there too. Set alerts to catch those roles the moment they go live!
We think you need these skills to ace Accounting Assistant & Payroll Administrator - Fixed Term in Glasgow
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Academic Achievements:In banking and financial services, your academic record can really make you stand out. List relevant grades, certifications, or coursework on your CV, especially if you've taken finance-related modules. This is particularly important for a temporary role where qualifications can help you shine even brighter!
Highlight Relevant Experience:If you’ve done any internships, part-time roles, or even coursework that aligns with banking or finance, make sure you include those! Showcase specific tasks where you used quantitative skills or analytical thinking, as this is what the hiring managers at Coherent will be keen to see in your application.
Tailor Your Cover Letter Purposefully:When writing your cover letter, focus on why you’re interested in a temporary position at Coherent. Let them know how you can quickly adapt to the team's needs and how eager you are to learn the ropes of the banking sector during this short stint. Your motivation and enthusiasm could really set you apart!
Be Prepared with References:For temporary roles, references can play a crucial role in your application. Make sure you’ve got a couple of references lined up who can vouch for your skills and work ethic. This helps to give Coherent confidence in your short-term commitment to the role.
How to prepare for a job interview at Coherent
✨Brush Up on Financial Regulations
Since this is a role in banking and financial services, be ready to discuss key regulations like MiFID, Basel III, or GDPR. These are hot topics, and your awareness of how they impact daily operations can give you a significant edge during your interview with Coherent.
✨Showcase Your Analytical Skills
Prepare for interview questions that assess your analytical abilities. You might need to tackle hypothetical scenarios involving risk assessment or financial forecasting. Bringing examples of relevant projects or coursework can emphasise your practical understanding of these concepts.
✨Highlight Flexibility and Adaptability
For a temporary role, showing that you can quickly pick up new processes and tools is crucial. Be ready to discuss previous experiences where you had to adapt to changing requirements or tight deadlines, as this will reassure Coherent that you’re a reliable team player.
✨Demonstrate a Willingness to Learn
In a temporary position, leaning into your eagerness to learn can really set you apart. Be prepared to share how you’re staying updated on industry trends or any additional training you've pursued. Employers appreciate candidates who are proactive about their development—even for short-term roles.
