At a Glance
- Tasks: Provide HR advice and support across various employment matters and projects.
- Company: Join the Royal Berkshire Fire and Rescue Service, a supportive and inclusive workplace.
- Benefits: Enjoy 28 days annual leave, flexible working, onsite gym, and a local government pension scheme.
- Other info: Diversity and inclusion are valued; job-share and part-time arrangements welcomed.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in HR while developing your skills in a dynamic environment.
- Qualifications: Experience in HR roles, strong communication skills, and knowledge of employment law required.
The predicted salary is between 39862 - 45091 £ per year.
Due to the nature of this role and its location, the following details are provided:
- Fixed Term – 12 months (Maternity cover).
- Full Time, 37 hours per week.
- Service Headquarters, Calcot, Reading.
- Salary: £39,862 – £45,091 per annum (Pay award pending), Grade 5.
Benefits:
- Excellent annual leave allowance of 28 days
- Flexible working
- Onsite gym
- Parking facilities
- Local Government Pension Scheme
About the Role:
This is an exciting opportunity to join Royal Berkshire Fire and Rescue Service (RBFRS) as an HR Adviser on a fixed‑term basis, supporting a professional and high‑performing HR team. You will play an important role in delivering high quality HR advice and support across a broad range of employment and service matters, while also contributing to payroll, pensions and key organisational projects.
About You:
- Motivated, professional and detail‑oriented HR practitioner with a strong generalist background
- Enjoy working collaboratively, solution‑focused mindset, and confident providing advice on a wide range of HR matters
You Will Bring:
- Experience in a HR Adviser or similar generalist HR role
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build effective working relationships
- Ability to manage a varied workload, prioritise effectively and meet deadlines
- Confidence in handling sensitive issues with tact, diplomacy and professionalism, including difficult situations
- Knowledge of employment law, data protection and HR best practice
- Experience in transactional HR work, including disciplinary and grievance casework
- Strong IT skills, including Microsoft Office, and experience of payroll systems
- Excellent accuracy, attention to detail, and strong analytical and problem‑solving skills
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively as part of a team, and to support the development of others
- CIPD Level 5 qualification or equivalent
Key Responsibilities & Deliverables:
- Provide HR advice and guidance to managers and employees on pay, pensions, policies, and employment matters
- Support HR projects, including those relating to pensions, data management and organisational change
- Manage the day‑to‑day relationship with payroll and pension providers, ensuring accurate and timely service delivery
- Ensure monthly and annual payroll activities are completed accurately, including checks and audit support
- Review, develop and improve HR processes in line with legislative and organisational changes
- Support and develop team members, contributing to a high‑quality HR service
Key Role Requirements:
- Able to interpret and advise on legal, contractual and regional documents
- Knowledge of employment law
- Experience handling sensitive employment cases, including discipline and grievances
- Experience advising on employment law and case law
Our Commitment:
Royal Berkshire Fire and Rescue Service values your individuality, diversity and dignity. All are welcome here. We are a Disability Confident Leader and will guarantee an interview if you meet the essential criteria and opt into the Offer of an Interview Scheme. We are committed to equality, diversity and inclusion and safeguard the welfare of children and vulnerable adults. Applications are welcome for job‑share or part‑time arrangements. All applications are considered on merit alone.
HR Adviser (Service Support) employer: South East Employers
Royal Berkshire Fire and Rescue Service is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive work environment that prioritises employee well-being and professional growth. With benefits such as flexible working hours, an onsite gym, and a generous annual leave allowance, employees can maintain a healthy work-life balance while contributing to meaningful public service. The organisation fosters a culture of collaboration and inclusivity, ensuring that all staff members feel valued and empowered to develop their skills in a dynamic HR team.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land HR Adviser (Service Support)
✨Get Your Foot in the Door with Temp Agencies
Temporary roles in HR are often filled through agencies. Reach out to temp agencies that specialise in HR placements. They can help you find gigs quickly and give you a chance to demonstrate your skills in real-world scenarios.
✨Network at HR Events and Workshops
Dive into local HR events, workshops, and seminars. These are great opportunities to meet professionals already in the field and might lead to temporary positions. Be sure to have a chat, exchange contacts, and express your interest in on-the-spot opportunities!
✨Showcase Your Flexibility
In the temporary HR world, being adaptable is key. When you're networking or interviewing, highlight your ability to quickly learn and fill diverse roles, from recruitment to employee onboarding. Make it clear that you’re ready to dive in at any time!
✨Apply Directly Through Our Website
Don’t forget to check out the opportunities at South East Employers and apply directly via our website. This way, you can express your interest in temporary roles and get ahead in the application process!
We think you need these skills to ace HR Adviser (Service Support)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your People Skills:In HR, showcasing your interpersonal skills is key. Make sure your CV highlights any experience you have dealing with talent management, resolving conflicts, or facilitating workshops. We want to see your ability to connect with others!
Tailor Your CV to HR:Use HR-specific language in your CV and cover letter. Mention any specific HR tools, software, or methodologies you’re familiar with, like ATS systems or performance management frameworks. This will show that you’re not just a good fit, but you've got the know-how to back it up!
Emphasise Your Flexibility:Since this is a temporary role, emphasising your adaptability and willingness to learn quickly is crucial. Include examples of how you've successfully jumped into new environments before or handled sudden changes in previous jobs. We love a team player who can hit the ground running!
Availability Matters:In your application, make sure to clarify your availability and commitment to the temporary position. This will help us understand when you can start and how you fit into our plans at South East Employers. So, don’t be shy about laying it all out there!
How to prepare for a job interview at South East Employers
✨Showcase Your Adaptability
Given that this is a temporary HR role at South East Employers, it's crucial to demonstrate your flexibility and ability to adapt quickly. You might be thrown into new projects or systems, so share examples of how you've successfully navigated changes in past roles.
✨Familiarise Yourself with HR Tools
Many HR positions require familiarity with tools like HRIS or ATS systems. Before the interview, brush up on the specific software that South East Employers uses—if you see any mentioned in the job posting, make sure you're ready to discuss them and your experience with similar tools.
✨Your Motivation Matters
As a temp, it's essential to convey your motivation for this role. Employers often look for candidates who are not just filling a position, but who are genuinely keen on contributing effectively in a short period. Consider sharing why you’re passionate about HR and how you see yourself adding value at South East Employers.
✨Prepare for Real-World Scenarios
HR interviews often include situational questions that test your problem-solving skills. Think about common HR challenges, like dealing with conflict or managing onboarding efficiently, and prepare to discuss how you would handle these situations at South East Employers.
