Cost Accountant

NHS; Gillingham; Hybrid; GBP 27,000 - 38,000; Full time

Job summary

A healthcare provider in Gillingham is seeking a dynamic Band 4/5 Cost Accountant. This full-time hybrid position requires AAT qualification or relevant experience, proficiency in Excel, and strong numerical skills. Candidates should be prepared for a role involving data management and collaboration with finance teams to improve processes. The salary ranges from £27,485 to £37,796 annually, plus a High Cost Area Supplement. Flexible working arrangements are available, and sponsorship may be considered for eligible applicants.

Qualifications

• AAT qualified or relevant experience in a management accounting environment.
• Experience in NHS finance environment preferred.
• Strong communication skills and ability to meet deadlines.

Responsibilities

• Support and develop the National Cost & PLICs collection.
• Improve systems and procedures for accuracy.
• Manage data and comply with latest policies.
• Review data quality with Business Partners.

Skills

AAT qualification or relevant experience

Proficiency in accounting systems

Strong numerical skills

Proficiency in Excel

Communication skills

Education

Minimum of 5 GCSEs including Maths & English

Tools

Excel

Job description

Job Summary

We are seeking a dynamic and motivated individual to join our team as a Band 4/5 Cost Accountant. This is a full‑time position based at our office in Rainham. The role is a Band 4 developmental opportunity. Candidates should be AAT qualified or working towards it and have a good working knowledge of IT systems, especially Excel. Previous finance experience in an NHS environment or in business partnering is advantageous, but not essential.

Location & Working Pattern

Based at CEME Marsh Way, Rainham (RM13 8GQ). Hybrid role covering the borough within NELFT, requiring travel from time to time. Full‑time, part‑time, job share or flexible working arrangements are available.

Salary & Benefits

Band 4 – £27,485 to £37,796 per annum (pro rata) plus High Cost Area Supplement (15% of basic salary, minimum £4,714 to maximum £5,941). Contract is Permanent.

Main Responsibilities

• Support and develop the National Cost & PLICs collection both internally and externally.
• Continuously improve systems and procedures to enhance accuracy and reliability of outputs.
• Manage data and information accurately and completely, following the latest policies and procedures, in both manual and electronic systems.
• Review the quality of data from the costing system, working closely with Business Partners and Information staff to continually improve and enhance the data.

Person Specification – Essential

• AAT qualified or relevant experience in a management accounting environment.
• Minimum of 5 GCSEs including Maths & English.
• Experience working in an NHS finance environment with demonstrable examples.
• Proficiency in accounting systems and creating/maintaining spreadsheets.
• Understanding of cost‑principles, patient data analysis and variance analysis.
• Strong numerical, written and verbal communication skills; ability to work flexibly and meet deadlines.

Person Specification – Desirable

• Studying towards CCAB professional accountancy qualification.
• Experience with costing systems.

Other Information

Probationary period applies – internal applicants are exempt unless they are part of their own probation. The post is subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (Exceptions Order) 1975 and requires a Disclosure & Barring Service check. Sponsored work visas may be considered for eligible applicants. For further details on AI usage and sponsorship, please refer to the attached documents.

Application Details

Date posted: 26 November 2025. Reference number: 395‑CC375‑25. Apply as soon as possible – some posts close early.

Employer

NELFT North East London Foundation Trust – CEME, Marsh Way, Rainham, RM13 8GQ. Website: https://www.nelft.nhs.uk/