At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the Union's Pensions Section and develop impactful pensions policies.
- Company: Join Usdaw, one of the UK's largest trade unions, making a difference for members.
- Benefits: Enjoy generous holidays, a defined contribution pension, and free health assessments.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on members' lives while working in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: In-depth knowledge of pensions and ability to motivate and build relationships.
- Other info: Flexible hours, dynamic office culture, and excellent career growth opportunities.
The predicted salary is between 52352 - 59475 £ per year.
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.
- Cycle 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. Alternatively, please e-mail via the button below or telephone the HR Section on 0161 413 0904, quoting Ref: 939.
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 - Legal Services Department - Head Office (Ref: 939) employer: USDAW
Contact Detail:
USDAW Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Pensions Officer - Legal Services Department - Head Office (Ref: 939)
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the company inside out! Research the Union of Shop, Distributive and Allied Workers and understand their values, mission, and current pension issues. This will help you tailor your approach during interviews and show that you're genuinely interested in the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Connect with current employees on LinkedIn or attend industry events. Building relationships can give you insider info about the role and might even lead to a referral, which can boost your chances of landing the job.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for the interview by practising common questions related to pensions and legal services. Think about how your experience aligns with the responsibilities of the Pensions Officer role. We recommend doing mock interviews with friends or using online resources to get comfortable.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re serious about the position. Make sure to highlight your adaptability and flexibility, as these are key traits for this role.
We think you need these skills to ace Pensions Officer - Legal Services Department - Head Office (Ref: 939)
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 requirements in your application to show us you’re the right fit.
Tailor Your Application: Don’t just send a generic application! We want to see how your skills and experiences align with the specific needs 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 application straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so avoid jargon and long-winded explanations. Make it easy for us to see why you’re the best candidate for the job!
Apply Through Our Website: Make sure to submit your application through our website. It’s the easiest 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. Familiarise yourself with the latest UK pensions legislation and current trends affecting pension provision. This will show that you're not just interested in the role but are also well-informed about the industry.
✨Demonstrate Your People Skills
As a Pensions Officer, you'll need to build effective working relationships. Prepare examples of how you've motivated others or worked collaboratively in the past. Think about times when you've successfully communicated complex information to different audiences – this will be key in your interview.
✨Be Ready for Flexibility Questions
Since the role requires adaptability, be prepared to discuss how you've managed changing priorities or tight deadlines in previous jobs. Have specific examples ready that highlight your ability to stay organised and focused under pressure.
✨Show Your Passion for Pensions Advocacy
The role involves raising awareness of pensions issues among union members. Think about why you’re passionate about pensions and how you can advocate for members' rights. Be ready to share your thoughts on current challenges faced by trade unions in safeguarding pension terms and conditions.