Assistant Accountant (Transactions)

James Fisher and Sons; Preston; Hybrid; GBP 25,000 - 30,000; Full time

Job summary

A prominent global engineering services company is seeking an Accounts Assistant in Preston. The role supports the finance team, ensuring accurate financial records and processing supplier invoices. Ideal candidates will have AAT Level 2 or equivalent experience and strong skills in accounting software and Excel. The position offers a competitive remuneration package and a culture that values diversity and inclusion.

Benefits

Private Medical Insurance

Life assurance

Cycle to work

Company pension

Qualifications

• Experience in a similar finance role is required.
• Understanding of accounting principles and practices is essential.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

Responsibilities

• Post and process supplier invoices and payments.
• Reconcile accounts payable transactions before month-end.
• Handle bank and credit card statement reconciliations.

Skills

Accounting software proficiency

Advanced Excel capabilities

Collaboration skills

Attention to detail

Self-motivated

Education

AAT Level 2 qualification or equivalent experience

Job description

About the Role

Accounts Assistant
Full-Time, PermanentPreston, Hybrid working

The Role: We are recruiting for an Accounts Assistant to support our transactional Finance Team at James Fisher Energy, reporting to the Finance Manager (Transactions). The role involves maintaining accurate supplier accounts, supporting transactional efficiency, and ensuring precise financial records.

You’ll contribute to improving month-end reporting timelines, assist with project costing, and uphold high standards of quality and professionalism.

The role will be based in our Bamber Bridge office in Preston and we offer hybrid working (2 days working from the office, 3 days working from home).

What you’ll be doing:

• Post and process supplier invoices and payments in IFS, ensuring accuracy and timely completion.
• Verify and record accounts payable transactions; reconcile ledgers before month-end.
• Review invoice documentation and ensure bills are paid on time.
• Raise customer invoices and support the regional team when needed.
• Perform reconciliations, prepare posting proposals, and manage month-end documentation.
• Handle bank and credit card statement reconciliations, including archiving and reporting.
• Complete ad-hoc finance tasks and assist with audits.

What we’re looking for:

• AAT Level 2 qualified or equivalent experience
• Proven experience in a similar finance role
• Strong proficiency in accounting software and administrative processes
• Solid understanding of accounting principles and practices
• Skilled in general ledger management and month-end close procedures
• Advanced Excel capabilities
• Effective team player with strong collaboration skills
• High level of accuracy and attention to detail
• Self-motivated with the ability to work independently
• Organised with clear and confident communication skills

Why join us?

• We offer opportunities for career growth and visibility across the organisation
• Competitive remuneration package, including benefits such as Private Medical Insurance, Life assurance, Cycle to work, Company pension and more!
• A supportive, inclusive culture that values your ideas and contributions

About Us:

James Fisher is a global engineering services company with over 50 years of experience delivering complex offshore energy projects in some of the world’s most challenging environments. We operate across Energy, Defence, and Maritime Transport, leveraging cutting-edge technology and deep expertise to support the full lifecycle of our customers’ assets.

In the Energy Division, we provide safe, efficient solutions across oil & gas and renewables - from well support and full-field decommissioning to integrated services for offshore wind and expert subsea inspection, repair, and maintenance. Our work helps operators extend asset life, reduce downtime, and respond rapidly to operational challenges, driving the global shift toward a cleaner, more sustainable future.

Our One James Fisher strategy unites our capabilities under a single vision, building a stronger, more cohesive business within the Blue Economy.

James Fisher and Sons are committed to taking positive action on diversity and strongly encourage applications for candidates from all backgrounds. We are proud to be a Disability Confident employer and recognise that our success depends on our talented and diverse workforce.