At a Glance
- Tasks: Learn and manage key pension processes, helping people secure their financial future.
- Company: Join a supportive team within the Pensions Shared Service across five London boroughs.
- Benefits: Enjoy 40 days annual leave, flexible working, and a generous pension plan.
- Other info: Ongoing training with opportunities for professional qualifications in pensions administration.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in people's lives while developing your career in pensions.
- Qualifications: Strong numerical skills and good communication abilities are essential.
The predicted salary is between 30225 - 34389 £ per year.
Join the Pensions Shared Service and begin a rewarding career helping people secure their financial future in retirement. As a Trainee Pensions Officer, you will develop specialist knowledge and practical experience in pensions administration, learning how to manage key Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS) processes such as retirements, transfers and benefit calculations. You will also gain an understanding of the legislation and regulations that underpin these important services.
Working within a supportive and experienced team, you will play a vital role in delivering accurate, efficient and customer-focused pension administration. You will be part of the Pensions Shared Service, which administers the LGPS on behalf of five London boroughs: Camden, Merton, Richmond, Waltham Forest and Wandsworth. Through your work, you will help ensure that scheme members receive the information, guidance and benefits they are entitled to, making a real difference to people's lives.
About the role
- Learn about and process a wide range of major pension scheme member events, including retirements and transfers.
- Communicate with pension scheme members by telephone and email, applying your knowledge to answer questions and support members.
- Develop an understanding of the Local Government Pension Scheme and the legislation that governs pensions administration.
- Work as part of either the Benefits team or the Data Management/Communications team, with flexibility to support work across teams.
- Receive ongoing training and development support, including the opportunity to study towards a nationally recognised qualification for retirement benefit professionals administered by the Local Government Association and the Pensions Management Institute (PMI).
Essential Qualifications, Skills and Experience
- Strong numerical skills.
- English language and mathematics skills in line with the essential criteria in the job profile.
- Good communication skills, including the ability to communicate clearly by telephone and email.
- Ability to work effectively as part of a team.
- Interest in starting a career in pensions and willingness to learn relevant legislation and processes.
- Commitment to ongoing training and development, including potential study towards a relevant professional qualification.
If selected for interview, candidates will be asked questions relating to the “Brief Guide to the Local Government Pension Scheme”, which is included in the application pack.
Application Dates
- Closing Date: 9 August 2026
- Shortlisting Date: 10 August 2026
- Interview Date: Monday 24 August 2026 in person at Wandsworth Town Hall
- Test/Presentation: Online assessment test on Monday 17 August 2026 via Microsoft Teams
Richmond & Wandsworth Better Service Partnership are committed to making our recruitment practices as inclusive as possible for everyone. We are committed to promoting equality and diversity and developing a culture that values differences, recognising that employees from a variety of backgrounds bring important and positive contributions to the Councils and can improve the way we deliver services.
We are proud to be a Disability Confident employer. If you require any reasonable adjustments throughout the recruitment and selection process, please let us know.
We are also committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people/vulnerable adults and expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment.
Some posts may be exempted under the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 and as such appointment to these posts will be conditional upon the receipt of a satisfactory response to a check of police records via Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS).
Benefits
- 40 days annual leave (including Bank Holidays)
- Flexible working
- A generous pension plan
Trainee Pensions Officer employer: Richmond and Wandsworth Councils
Richmond and Wandsworth Councils are committed to fostering a supportive and inclusive work environment, making them an excellent employer for those seeking meaningful roles in public service. With flexible working arrangements, generous annual leave, and opportunities for professional growth, employees can thrive while contributing to the community's trust and governance. The hybrid working model allows for a balanced work-life integration, making this position particularly appealing for those looking to make a difference in their local area.
Contact Details:
Richmond and Wandsworth Councils Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Trainee Pensions Officer
✨Connect with Your Local Council
Don’t underestimate the power of local councils for traineeships in the government and public sector. Pop down to your local council office and ask about any upcoming trainee programmes—they usually have insights on what's available in your area!
✨Join Public Sector Networking Events
Get involved with networking events that focus on the public sector. These gatherings are golden opportunities to meet potential employers and current trainees who can shed light on hidden opportunities and the application process. Keep an eye on Eventbrite or local community boards!
✨Utilise University Career Services
If you’re at university, make sure to use your career services! They often have direct connections with government agencies and can help you find trainee roles specifically aimed at students. Plus, they host workshops that can prepare you for the application process.
✨Apply Directly Through Our Website
When you see a role at Richmond and Wandsworth Councils that interests you, don’t just save it for later—apply directly through our website. Clearly highlighting your enthusiasm for public service in your application can give you an edge. We’re here rooting for you!
We think you need these skills to ace Trainee Pensions Officer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Enthusiasm for Public Service:When applying for a role in the government-public-sector like Trainee Pensions Officer, it's crucial to express your passion for public service. Make sure your cover letter highlights why you want to contribute to the community and any relevant experiences that show your commitment to making a difference.
Tailor Your CV for the Public Sector:Your CV should reflect a genuine understanding of the public sector's values and skills. Emphasise any volunteer work, internships, or relevant coursework that demonstrates your ability to navigate policies, regulations, or community engagement. This shows that you're not just looking for any job, but that you're dedicated to this specific field.
Highlight Your Skills in Research and Analysis:In the government-public-sector, research and analytical skills are key. So, include examples in your application that show you can gather, evaluate, and interpret data. This could be a project from university, an internship task, or even relevant coursework; just make it crystal clear that you’ve got what it takes to make informed decisions.
Be Clear About Your Learning Goals:As a trainee, it’s important to show that you're eager to learn and grow. In your cover letter, mention specific skills or knowledge you hope to gain through the Trainee Pensions Officer position at Richmond and Wandsworth Councils. This demonstrates your long-term commitment and desire to develop in the public sector.
How to prepare for a job interview at Richmond and Wandsworth Councils
✨Know the Public Sector Landscape
Familiarise yourself with key government policies and how they impact public services. Since you’re aiming for a trainee role, being able to discuss recent initiatives or reforms shows you’re engaged and aware of the sector’s challenges and opportunities.
✨Highlight Your Drive to Serve
In public sector interviews like this one, they’re really interested in your motivation. Make sure you can articulate why you want to serve the community and how your values align with the mission of Richmond and Wandsworth Councils. They’ll be looking for that passion!
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
You’ll likely face scenario questions about dealing with citizens or managing projects. Think through examples where you demonstrated teamwork, problem-solving, or resilience in a community project or voluntary role. Use the STAR technique to structure your answers.
✨Emphasise Your Willingness to Learn
As a trainee, your ability and eagerness to learn are crucial. Be ready to discuss how you've embraced new experiences in the past, whether through studies or work placements. Illustrate your adaptability and readiness for mentorship in the role at Richmond and Wandsworth Councils.
