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 with a strong commitment to its members.
- Benefits: Enjoy generous holidays, a defined contribution pension, and free health assessments.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in safeguarding members' pension rights and shaping policies.
- Qualifications: In-depth knowledge of pensions and ability to build effective relationships.
- Other info: Flexible working hours and excellent career development opportunities await you.
The predicted salary is between 52352 - 59475 £ per year.
A vacancy exists for a Pensions Officer based at the Union’s Head Office.
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.
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 and 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 Salford employer: USDAW
Contact Detail:
USDAW Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Pensions Officer in Salford
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the company inside out! Research the Union of Shop, Distributive and Allied Workers, their values, and their current projects. 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 and might even lead to a referral, which is always a bonus!
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for the interview by practising common questions related to pensions and trade unions. Think about how your skills align with the job description and be ready to share examples that highlight your experience.
✨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 joining the team at the Union's Head Office.
We think you need these skills to ace Pensions Officer in Salford
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 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 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!
Apply Through Our Website: Make sure to submit your application through our website by clicking the ‘apply’ button. This helps us keep everything organised and ensures your application gets the attention it deserves!
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 Communication Skills
As a Pensions Officer, you'll need to advise members and officials effectively. Prepare examples of how you've communicated complex information clearly in the past. Think about times when you've motivated others or built strong working relationships, as these skills will be crucial in this role.
✨Be Ready for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving abilities and how you prioritise work under tight deadlines. Prepare for hypothetical scenarios related to pensions issues and think through how you would handle them. This will help you demonstrate your critical thinking and adaptability.
✨Show Your Passion for Pensions
Express your enthusiasm for the role and the importance of safeguarding members' pension terms and conditions. Research the Union's current campaigns and be ready to discuss how you can contribute to raising awareness of pensions issues among the membership. This will highlight your commitment to the organisation's mission.