At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the Union's Pensions Section and develop impactful pensions policies.
- Company: Join one of the UK's largest trade unions, dedicated to supporting its members.
- Benefits: Generous holiday entitlement, defined contribution pension, and free health assessments.
- Why this job: Make a difference in members' lives by advising on vital pension matters.
- Qualifications: In-depth knowledge of pension schemes and UK pensions legislation required.
- Other info: Flexible working hours and excellent career development opportunities await you.
The predicted salary is between 52352 - 59475 £ per year.
Legal Services Department Head Office (Ref: 939)
Deadline: Noon on 20 February 2026
Salary: £52,352 pa rising to £59,475 pa after successful completion of the probationary period. There are no set hours for this position, and the postholder will be expected to be adaptable and flexible to meet the needs of the job. The postholder will be required to live within 50 miles of Head Office. Overnight stays may be required.
Location: Head Office, Salford Quays, M50 3XZ. NB; this role is fully office-based.
The Union of Shop, Distributive and Allied Workers is one of the UK’s largest trade unions. A vacancy exists for a Pensions Officer based at the Union's Head Office.
What we Offer:
- Defined contribution pension.
- Generous holiday entitlement 24 days rising to 32 days plus bank and customary holidays (pro-rata to commencing month in holiday year and number of days a week worked).
- Free onsite parking, subject to availability.
- Cyle to Work Scheme (subject to passing probation and length of contract).
- Season Ticket Loan (subject to length of contract).
- Free health assessments (post probation).
The principal duties are:
- To head up the Union's Pensions Section.
- Develop the Union's pensions policies.
- Advise members and officials of the Union on all matters relating to company and State Pensions.
- Raise awareness of pensions issues amongst the Union's membership.
- Co-ordinate the Union's pensions campaigning work.
The successful applicant will possess:
- An in-depth knowledge of workplace and personal pension schemes.
- Knowledge of State Pensions and other state retirement benefits.
- Up-to-date knowledge of UK pensions legislation and other laws and regulations relating to pensions.
- An understanding of the current trends and issues affecting pension provision in the UK and in particular the challenges faced by trade unions in trying to safeguard their members' pension terms and conditions.
- The ability to motivate others and to build effective working relationships.
- The ability to prioritise work and work to tight deadlines.
Interviews are expected to take place on Wednesday, 4 March 2026. An application pack can be downloaded from here by clicking on the apply button. The closing date is noon on Friday, 20 February 2026. CVs are not accepted. No agencies please. Usdaw is an Equal Opportunities Employer.
Pensions Officer in Manchester employer: USDAW
Contact Detail:
USDAW Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Pensions Officer in Manchester
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former employees in similar roles, especially those at the Union of Shop, Distributive and Allied Workers. They can give you insider info on what the job really entails and might even put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by brushing up on your knowledge of UK pensions legislation and current trends. We want you to show off your expertise and passion for the role, so be ready to discuss how you can contribute to the Union's goals.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Conduct mock interviews with friends or family to get comfortable with common questions. This will help you articulate your thoughts clearly and confidently when it’s your turn to shine.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search!
We think you need these skills to ace Pensions Officer in Manchester
Some tips for your application 🫡
Read the Job Description Carefully: Before you start writing, make sure you fully understand what the Pensions Officer role entails. Highlight the key responsibilities and required skills in your application to show us you’re a perfect fit!
Tailor Your Application: Don’t just send a generic application! We want to see how your experience aligns with the specific duties of the role. Use examples from your past that demonstrate your knowledge of pensions and your ability to work under pressure.
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your writing straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so avoid jargon and long-winded sentences. Make it easy for us to see why you’re the right candidate for the job!
Apply Through Our Website: Make sure to submit your application through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Don’t miss out on this opportunity!
How to prepare for a job interview at USDAW
✨Know Your Pensions Inside Out
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of workplace and personal pension schemes, as well as State Pensions. Being able to discuss current trends and issues affecting pension provision will show that you're not just knowledgeable but also passionate about the field.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
As a Pensions Officer, you'll need to advise members and officials. Practice explaining complex pension concepts in simple terms. During the interview, demonstrate your ability to build effective working relationships by engaging with the interviewers and asking insightful questions.
✨Be Ready for Scenario Questions
Prepare for questions that ask how you would handle specific situations related to pensions. Think about past experiences where you've had to motivate others or manage tight deadlines, and be ready to share those examples to illustrate your problem-solving skills.
✨Flexibility is Key
Since the role requires adaptability, be prepared to discuss how you've successfully managed changing priorities in previous roles. Highlight your willingness to go the extra mile, especially when it comes to meeting the needs of the job and the union's members.