Southend on Sea City Council is a Unitary local authority, providing vital services to meet the needs of the local community. We employ around 1,800 staff who are working alongside our partners and local communities to deliver the city vision and make lives better for the people of Southend.

Working for Southend on Sea City Council offers a challenging and rewarding career in local government within a collaborative and innovate environment, with the benefit of flexible working practices to support a positive work life balance. As a Unitary Authority we are responsible for all local government functions ranging from social services, transport, public health and parks through to planning, trading standards, community safety and education, so we offer a wide range of career opportunities. The diversity of our economy and communities and investment in a number of exciting regeneration projects makes our Council a great place to work, learn and make a difference.

Southend‑on‑Sea City Council is seeking a motivated and organised HR Assistant to join our People & Operations Service on a 6‑month fixed term contract. This is an excellent opportunity to support the delivery of our People Vision and Corporate Plan, helping us build a resilient, skilled and engaged workforce that delivers high‑quality services to our residents.

Working as part of a collaborative HR team, you will play a key role in supporting HR Consultants to implement effective recruitment and resourcing processes, while contributing to the delivery of a high‑quality and responsive HR operations service.

As an HR Assistant, you will provide comprehensive administrative and operational HR support across the Council maintaining accurate records. This includes imputing and updating employee records, issuing contracts of employment and responding to queries in a timely manner.

This work requires a high level of professionalism, confidentiality and sensitivity, ensuring processes are delivered accurately and within agreed timescales.

To be successful in this role, you must have experience of working within an HR environment in a local authority or similarly complex organisation, or be able to demonstrate strong transferable experience with a sound understanding of HR functions, employment law, and HR policies and processes.

It is essential that you are confident in using Microsoft Office applications and comfortable working with HR data, preparing reports and managing multiple priorities to tight deadlines. Strong written and verbal communication skills are essential, along with the ability to work flexibly, build effective relationships and deliver a high standard of customer service. You will be enthusiastic, adaptable and committed to continuous improvement, with the ability to work independently and as part of a collaborative team. An understanding of the politically sensitive environment of a local authority, alongside a commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion, will be key to your success.

If you are interested in this role, please click 'apply online' to forward an up-to-date copy of your CV.

If you would like a copy the Job Description, please click here

Please note: Applications for this vacancy may close prior to the date advertised above so you are advised to apply as soon as you are able to.

The Council is an equal opportunities employer. We welcome applications, regardless of race, sex, disability, sexual orientation, gender reassignment, marital or civil partner status, pregnancy or maternity, age or religion or belief.