At a Glance
- Tasks: Provide expert HR advice and improve processes for a dynamic team.
- Company: Join the Royal Berkshire Fire and Rescue Service, a supportive and professional environment.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, an onsite gym, and a local government pension scheme.
- Other info: Great opportunity for career growth in a collaborative setting.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in HR while developing your skills in a vital service.
- Qualifications: CIPD Level 5 or equivalent, with HR advisory experience.
Contract Details
- Fixed Term Full Time – 37 hours per week
- Location: Service Headquarters, Calcot, Reading
- Salary: £33,699 – £38,220 per annum (pay award pending); Grade 4
- Annual leave: 25 days
Benefits
- Flexible working
- Onsite gym
- Parking facilities
- Local Government Pension Scheme
About the Role
Working as part of a professional HR team, you will provide high‑quality advice and guidance to managers and employees on a range of HR matters, including employee relations casework, employment legislation, and organisational policies. The role also focuses on process improvement, data insight, and system development, working closely with HR colleagues and ICT to identify opportunities for automation, digitalisation, and improved ways of working.
Key Responsibilities and Deliverables
- Provide professional HR advice to managers and staff on employment law, policies, procedures and casework.
- Identify opportunities to streamline and automate HR processes across the employee lifecycle.
- Support HR and payroll projects, including pensions related work and system improvements.
- Analyse HR data to identify trends, insights and opportunities for improved ways of working.
Key Requirements
- CIPD Level 5 (or working towards) or equivalent.
- Experience of transactional and advisory HR.
- Strong digital and systems capability, including HR systems and reporting tools.
- Experience providing HR advice and supporting complex casework.
Application Deadline
Closing date for applications: 10 July 2026.
HR Adviser (Fixed Term – up to 12 months) in Reading employer: South East Employers
Joining the Royal Berkshire Fire and Rescue Service as an HR Adviser offers a unique opportunity to contribute to a vital public service while enjoying a supportive work culture that prioritises employee well-being and professional development. With benefits such as flexible working, an onsite gym, and a Local Government Pension Scheme, employees are encouraged to maintain a healthy work-life balance. The role not only allows for meaningful engagement in HR practices but also provides avenues for growth through collaboration on innovative projects aimed at enhancing operational efficiency.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land HR Adviser (Fixed Term – up to 12 months) in Reading
✨Join HR Networks
Get involved in HR-specific communities, like the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD) and local HR meetups. This is a fantastic way to connect with industry professionals and learn about job openings before they even hit job boards!
✨Make Your Presence Known
Attend HR conferences and workshops in your area to network with potential employers. Don't be shy—introduce yourself, exchange business cards, and let them know you're keen on a full-time role in HR. Who knows, you might just land a friendly face at South East Employers!
✨Leverage Your University Connections
If you’re a recent grad or still in uni, tap into your career services and alumni network. Many universities have connections with companies looking for HR talent, so get those leads and apply through our website for a smoother application process.
✨Showcase Your HR Passion
Create content around HR topics you’re passionate about, like employee engagement or diversity initiatives. Share articles or insights on LinkedIn to demonstrate your knowledge and get noticed by recruiters. It’s a subtle yet effective way to show you’re the right fit for a full-time role at South East Employers.
We think you need these skills to ace HR Adviser (Fixed Term – up to 12 months) in Reading
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your HR Skills:When you’re crafting your CV, make sure you highlight specific HR skills that are relevant to the role at South East Employers. Include any experience with recruitment processes, employee relations, or performance management, and don’t forget to mention your familiarity with HR software or tools that could give you an edge.
Tailor Your Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine, so tailor it to South East Employers and the specific HR role. Highlight your passion for people management and how your unique approach can help foster a positive workplace culture. Be sure to sprinkle in examples from your past experiences that illustrate your problem-solving abilities and interpersonal skills.
Include Relevant Certifications:If you’ve got any HR certifications or relevant training under your belt, be sure to showcase them! These qualifications can really set you apart from other candidates when applying for this full-time HR position at South East Employers. List them prominently on your CV to catch the hiring manager's eye.
Align with Company Culture:Make sure your application speaks to South East Employers's values and culture. Research the company and align your experiences or values with what they stand for. This will show them that you're not only a fit for the role but also for the overall vibe of the team and organisation.
How to prepare for a job interview at South East Employers
✨Brush Up on HR Best Practices
As you're diving into human resources, it’s crucial to be well-versed in the latest HR practices and legislation. Get familiar with key topics like employee engagement, talent acquisition, and diversity initiatives, as these could easily pop up in your interview with South East Employers.
✨Know Your Recruitment Tools
Most HR roles involve using various recruitment tools and ATS (Applicant Tracking Systems). Make sure you can comfortably discuss platforms like Workday or Greenhouse. If you've had direct experience, share those examples; if not, show your eagerness to learn!
✨Highlight Your People Skills
A full-time HR role at South East Employers will require strong interpersonal skills. Prepare to share stories that demonstrate how you’ve successfully navigated conflicts or supported team members in past experiences. Authenticity goes a long way in this field.
✨Stay Current with HR Trends
Being up to speed with current HR trends, like remote working protocols or mental health initiatives, can set you apart. Be ready to discuss how these trends could impact South East Employers and how you would contribute to adapting HR strategies.
