At a Glance
- Tasks: Support the finance team with budget monitoring and financial analysis.
- Company: Join Braintree District Council, a dynamic and growing local authority.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, employee discounts, health programmes, and learning opportunities.
- Other info: Great career growth in a supportive public sector environment.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in your community while developing your finance career.
- Qualifications: AAT qualification or relevant experience in finance required.
The predicted salary is between 35721 - 35721 £ per year.
We are looking for an organised and motivated Accounting Assistant to join our Financial Services team at the Council. This role provides support across the finance team, to deliver an accurate and compliant service.
The role assists with budget monitoring, advice and analysis, contributing to the production of final accounts including year end processes, annual estimates, budgetary control and audit requirements. Support extends across accounts payable and corporate finance including payment processing, resolving queries and financial monitoring, alongside advising and supporting employees and managers.
This is an excellent opportunity for a candidate with strong numeracy skills, excellent attention to detail and ideally experience of working in local government.
We are looking for part or full AAT qualification or extensive experience in a similar finance role. You should be confident working with financial systems, spreadsheets and Microsoft Office, with the ability to interpret financial information, follow procedures and work accurately to deadlines. Alongside strong communication skills with the ability to build excellent working relationships and a customer-focused approach.
If you are looking to develop your finance career in a supportive public sector environment and can bring accuracy, professionalism and a proactive approach to financial support, we would welcome your application.
Why choose Braintree District Council?
Braintree is an ambitious and dynamic Council and is becoming one of the fastest growing Districts in the East of England with three growing towns, London just 45 minutes away and the District located directly between the international transport centres of Stansted Airport and Harwich and Felixstowe International Ports. We have a deserved track record for delivering and a strong reputation within the business community.
Braintree District Council is a great place to work. We pride ourselves on our creative and innovative approach, which is led by our employees, and are committed to having an engaged workforce who understand our strategy and how they can help deliver it. Our people see the difference they make and how the work they do actively contributes to and encourages positive change in the local community.
We also offer some great benefits, including:
- Learning and development for all employees
- Employee discounts at local businesses
- Extensive health and wellbeing programmes, including discounted gym membership
Make a difference – work for your local council. Every day, our work shapes the place people call home – at your local council, your skills will help build safer neighbourhoods, stronger communities and better futures.
From Planning and IT to Finance and Environmental Services, and with more routes in than ever, choose from hundreds of roles to find out what works for you. Whether you’re just starting out or looking for a change, find your own path to a life-changing career.
Closing date for receipt of completed applications: Midnight on Monday 7th September 2026. Interviews will take place in week commencing 14th or 21st September 2026.
Accounting Assistant in Braintree employer: Colchester Borough Council
Colchester Borough Council is an excellent employer, offering a supportive work culture that values professional development and community impact. As a Senior Planning Enforcement Officer, you will enjoy flexible working arrangements, a comprehensive local government pension scheme, and access to extensive health and wellbeing programs, all while contributing to meaningful projects in the Braintree area.
Contact Details:
Colchester Borough Council Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Accounting Assistant in Braintree
✨Tap into Campus Networks
If you're still in uni, don’t forget to engage with your campus's career services and attend finance-related events. Banks often do presentations and recruitment drives on campus, so put yourself out there and make use of these opportunities to show off your passion for the field.
✨Get Certified
Consider pursuing relevant certifications like the CFA or ACCA while you’re job hunting. They not only beef up your CV but also connect you with professional bodies which can lead to networking opportunities and even job openings in banking and financial services.
✨Connect on Professional Platforms
Join finance-focused groups on platforms like LinkedIn and engage in discussions. This can really help you stand out from the crowd, allowing potential employers to see your knowledge and interest in industry trends. Plus, you might stumble upon job postings shared exclusively within the group.
✨Apply Directly and Be Proactive
Don’t shy away from reaching out directly to firms like Colchester Borough Council. Use their websites and apply through them, but also consider following up with a polite email to express your enthusiasm. Being proactive can make a huge difference in getting noticed in the competitive financial services sector.
We think you need these skills to ace Accounting Assistant in Braintree
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Numbers!:In the banking and financial services world, quantifiable achievements are key. Make sure your CV highlights your grades in relevant subjects, any financial certifications you hold, and specific projects where you've delivered measurable results. Employers love to see how your skills translate into real-world success.
Tailor Your Cover Letter to the Role:When applying for a full-time position, your cover letter should make a direct connection between your experience and the job description. Don't just state your enthusiasm for finance—dive into how your background in banking or financial analysis sets you apart. Let your passion shine through while being specific about what you can bring to Colchester Borough Council.
Include Relevant Financial Software Experience:If you've worked with financial modelling tools or software like Excel, SAP, or specific analytical tools during your studies or internships, bring that up! Highlighting your proficiency can really make your application pop and show you're ready to hit the ground running in a full-time role.
Research and Reflect:Before hitting that 'apply' button on Colchester Borough Council's website, do a little digging. Look up their recent projects, values, and culture. Reflecting their ethos in your application can make a huge difference and show you’re genuinely interested in being part of the team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Colchester Borough Council
✨Brush Up on Financial Analysis Skills
Make sure you're well-versed in financial concepts and analytical techniques relevant to banking and financial services. Get comfortable with tools like Excel for modelling or financial forecasting, as technical questions in this area are common during interviews with Colchester Borough Council.
✨Prepare for Case Studies
Expect to tackle case studies that demonstrate your problem-solving skills in real-world banking scenarios. Familiarise yourself with the types of problems you might face—think risk assessments or investment evaluations—and be ready to articulate your thought process clearly.
✨Show Your Passion for Finance
Since this is a full-time position, employers at Colchester Borough Council will be keen to see your genuine interest in finance. Be prepared to discuss recent industry trends or news articles that excite you, showcasing your enthusiasm and engagement with the field.
✨Network with Industry Professionals
Before your interview, reach out to current or former Colchester Borough Council employees on platforms like LinkedIn. They'll offer unique insights into the company's culture and the interview process, which can give us a delightful edge in showcasing a good fit for the team.
