Coherent UK
Accounting Assistant & Payroll Administrator - Fixed Term
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Coherent Corp
Coherent Corp is the global leader in photonics, designing and manufacturing advanced laser, optical, and materials technologies. Our innovations power semiconductor manufacturing, AI infrastructure, advanced communications, and precision industrial systems worldwide. With a global footprint and cutting-edge manufacturing and R&D, we’re shaping the future of high-tech industries.
In Scotland, our site is a key centre for laser and ultrafast laser technology, specialising in the development, manufacture, and lifecycle support of advanced laser systems for demanding industrial and scientific applications. Working closely with teams across our global network, we combine deep engineering expertise with collaborative innovation to deliver high-performance, reliable laser solutions with real-world impact.
Assistant Accountant & Payroll Administrator
The Role
We are seeking a proactive and self-motivated Assistant Accountant to join our growing Finance team on an 8-month fixed-term contract to cover a period of maternity leave.
This is a busy and varied role offering the opportunity to develop your accounting skills while contributing to a small, collaborative team. The successful candidate will bring a meticulous and organised approach to their work, with strong prioritisation and workload management skills to deliver high-quality support in a fast-paced environment.
What you will be doing...
Key Responsibilities
- Manage and process monthly payroll and respond to payroll queries.
- Prepare payroll journals and support payroll-related month-end activities.
- Execute weekly UK and international payment runs.
- Process monthly intercompany settlements and quarterly recharges.
- Prepare month-end reports and corporate reporting schedules.
- Complete balance sheet, bank and intercompany reconciliations.
- Prepare and submit monthly VAT returns.
- Maintain fixed asset records and reconciliations.
- Support weekly cash flow forecasting and treasury reporting.
- Assist with continuous process improvements and ad hoc finance projects.
- Provide cover and support across the Finance team when required.
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About You
Essential
- Experience in an accounting or finance role with payroll responsibilities.
- Studying towards, or qualified through, a recognised accounting qualification (AAT, ACCA, CIMA or equivalent).
- Strong Excel skills and experience using ERP/accounting systems (Oracle preferred).
- Good understanding of payroll processes and month-end accounting.
- Strong organisational skills with the ability to manage competing priorities.
- Excellent attention to detail and a commitment to accuracy.
- Strong communication and relationship-building skills.
Desirable
- Experience in a manufacturing, shared services or multinational environment.
- Knowledge of Lean or continuous improvement methodologies.
- Experience with VAT reporting and intercompany accounting.
What You'll Bring
- A collaborative and positive approach.
- Accountability and ownership of your work.
- Strong problem-solving skills.
- Adaptability and resilience in a changing environment.
- A continuous improvement mindset.
This role offers an excellent opportunity to develop your accounting and payroll expertise while gaining exposure to a broad range of finance activities within a growing organisation.
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Ensure adherence to company’s values (ICARE) in all aspects of your position:
🤝 Integrity – Create an Environment of Trust
✨ Collaboration – Innovate Through the Sharing of Ideas
🎯 Accountability – Own the Process and the Outcome
🌍 Respect – Recognize the Value in Everyone
🚀 Enthusiasm – Find a Sense of Purpose in Work
Application & Selection
Current employees who wish to apply should submit a cover letter detailing their interest in the position and how their skills and experience align with the requirements of the role.
We are committed to creating an inclusive and accessible recruitment experience and encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds.
Coherent is a global leader in lasers, engineered materials and networking components. We are a vertically integrated manufacturing company that develops innovative products for diversified applications in the industrial, optical communications, military, life sciences, semiconductor equipment, and consumer markets. Coherent provides a comprehensive career development platform within an environment that challenges employees to perform at their best, while rewarding excellence and hard-work through a competitive compensation program. It's an exciting opportunity to work for a company that offers stability, longevity and growth. Come Join Us!
Note to recruiters and employment agencies: We will not pay for unsolicited resumes from recruiters and employment agencies unless we have a signed agreement and have required assistance, in writing, for a specific opening.
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