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- Tasks: Support financial management and assist with a new financial system implementation.
- Company: Join East Lothian Council, a dynamic local authority focused on community service.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working hours and potential home or hybrid work options.
- Why this job: Be part of a fast-paced project team making a real impact in local governance.
- Qualifications: Must have a relevant accountancy qualification or substantial experience in financial management.
- Other info: This is a temporary role for one year, starting 1st October 2025.
Vacancy Information
The salary advertised is full time (35 hours per week). Part‑time hours will be pro‑rated accordingly.
Hourly rate of pay: £17.72 – £19.19
Days And Hours Of Work
Monday – Friday 09.00 – 17.00
Flexi time is applicable, and starting and finishing times are flexible.
To start March 2026
Internal Applicants Only
This post is open only to current employees of East Lothian Council (this includes agency, casual and locum staff who are currently undertaking work for us).
Home / Hybrid Working Consideration
Applications for home or hybrid working will be considered for this post in accordance with East Lothian Council’s Home Working and Worksmart Policies which can be found here. Home or hybrid working options can be discussed with candidates invited for interview.
Please Note
All home/hybrid workers must live in the UK. Where an application for home‑working is supported, it will be subject to a satisfactory trial period. Employees will be expected to attend Council offices for the duration of induction, and be on site in East Lothian workplaces, as required. Employees with a hybrid working arrangement in place will be office‑based and able to work from home, with permission, on an ad‑hoc basis.
Job Details
As a key member of the Finance Team, the Finance Officer will be expected to:
- Support the Accountant and Principal Accountant to develop service budgets;
- Support in the preparation of accurate and timely financial monitoring reports to Council services, ensuring that relevant information is reflected within the financial ledger and budget profiling is accurate; timely and accurate reconciliations are undertaken; and financial variances are identified and investigated;
- Support the successful delivery of the Council’s statutory financial accounts and other key statutory returns.
Please download the Job Outline/Person Specification (available under ‘Job Attachments’) for the full range of tasks and duties associated with this job. You will need to refer to these in order to complete the application form. You must ensure you meet every ‘essential’ criteria stated on the Person Specification to be considered for interview.
The ‘East Lothian Way’ – values and behaviours we expect our employees to demonstrate in their everyday work. Should you be invited to interview, you may be asked questions based on these behaviours. Please refer to the document via the link to familiarise yourself with them.
Job Requirements
Relevant Qualifications
A formal accountancy or business management qualification at HNC/SVQ Level 3 and/or able to demonstrate substantial experience/skills in a financial management/business management role.
Level 1 Disclosure Clearance
This role requires Level 1 Disclosure Clearance to allow access to the Public Sector Network. ELC will submit a Police Act Disclosure application on behalf of the preferred candidate and receipt of the subsequent certificate will be required prior to commencement.
Please Note
If you have spent more than 3 months working or living outwith the UK in the last 5 years then you will also be required to present a copy of an overseas criminal record check. Details of how to apply and contact details can be found on the GOV.UK website.
Additional Information
For additional East Lothian Council employment information please click on the following link: www.eastlothian.gov.uk/nonteachinginfo
If you have any difficulties creating an account on MyJobScotland or applying for this post please contact the MyJobScotland support team via this link.
We do not accept CVs (either electronically or by mail). All our vacancies must be applied for by fully completing the online application form. Although there is an ‘import data from my CV’ function on MyJobScotland, this only imports very limited data and should not be relied upon to complete the application form. If, for example, due to a disability, you are unable to complete the online application form you can contact us for a paper application via the telephone number or email address above.
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Finance Officer employer: East Lothian Council
Contact Detail:
East Lothian Council Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Finance Officer
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific financial systems and software mentioned in the job description. Understanding how these systems work will not only help you during the interview but also demonstrate your proactive approach to learning.
✨Tip Number 2
Research East Lothian Council's values and behaviours, as outlined in the job description. Be prepared to discuss how your personal values align with theirs during the interview, showcasing your fit for their team culture.
✨Tip Number 3
Network with current or former employees of East Lothian Council, especially those in finance roles. They can provide valuable insights into the work environment and expectations, which can help you tailor your responses in the interview.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare examples from your past experience that highlight your adaptability and flexibility, as these are key traits they are looking for. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your responses effectively.
We think you need these skills to ace Finance Officer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description thoroughly to understand the responsibilities and requirements of the Finance Officer position. Make sure to highlight your relevant experience in financial management and any qualifications you possess.
Tailor Your Application: Customise your application form to reflect how your skills and experiences align with the essential criteria listed in the Person Specification. Use specific examples from your past work to demonstrate your capabilities.
Highlight Relevant Qualifications: Ensure you clearly state your formal accountancy or business management qualifications, as well as any substantial experience in financial roles. This is crucial for meeting the job's requirements.
Follow Application Instructions: Pay close attention to the application process outlined by East Lothian Council. Remember that they do not accept CVs, so make sure to complete the online application form fully and accurately.
How to prepare for a job interview at East Lothian Council
✨Understand the Role
Make sure you thoroughly read the job description and understand the key responsibilities of a Finance Officer. Be prepared to discuss how your skills and experiences align with the tasks mentioned, such as supporting financial management and preparing reports.
✨Familiarise Yourself with the 'East Lothian Way'
The interview may include questions about the values and behaviours expected by East Lothian Council. Familiarise yourself with these principles and think of examples from your past experiences that demonstrate how you embody these values.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Given the nature of the role, be ready to answer technical questions related to financial management and reporting. Brush up on your knowledge of financial systems and data migration processes, as these will likely be relevant to the project you'll be involved in.
✨Show Enthusiasm and Flexibility
As the role requires someone who is enthusiastic and adaptable, be sure to convey your willingness to embrace change and work in a fast-paced environment. Share examples of how you've successfully adapted to new situations in previous roles.
