Finance Assistant (Maternity Cover)

Location: On-site, Loanhead, Edinburgh

Contract: 12 Month Fixed-Term (Maternity Cover)
Hours: Full-time or Part-time (21–37 hours per week)

Join Our Team: Finance Assistant

MacTaggart Scott is looking to recruit a Finance Assistant to join our Finance team on a 12-month fixed-term maternity cover contract. Reporting to the Finance Manager, this role plays a key part in supporting the day-to-day financial operations of the business.

This is a varied and hands-on position, ideal for someone who enjoys working with accuracy and detail, while contributing to the smooth running of financial processes. You’ll be involved in a wide range of finance activities, from expenses and reconciliations to supporting reporting and audits, with opportunities to contribute to process improvements along the way.

About Us

For over a century, MacTaggart Scott has played a vital role in supporting the Naval Defence sector, providing integrated solutions from early stage analysis and design to manufacture, commissioning, and long term through life support. Established in 1898, our reputation is built on engineering excellence, innovation, and a commitment to continuous improvement.

What is the Job About?

The Finance Assistant is responsible for supporting routine financial activities that ensure the smooth and accurate running of the finance function. This includes processing expenses, maintaining financial records, supporting supplier invoicing, and assisting with monthly reporting and reconciliations.

Success in this role will be measured by the accuracy, timeliness, and quality of financial data and reporting, as well as your ability to support the wider finance team and contribute to continuous improvement initiatives.

Key Responsibilities

• Process credit card and cash expenses accurately and in a timely manner
• Investigate and resolve invoice queries and issue supplier remittances
• Maintain accurate supplier and customer records
• Assist with supplier payment run preparation
• Provide cover for trade creditors during periods of absence
• Complete cash book entries and manage petty cash
• Support monthly reconciliations and identify any discrepancies
• Assist in the preparation and distribution of monthly management reports
• Support budget preparation and variance analysis
• Assist with project closures and time management processes
• Manage fixed assets, including creation, monitoring, and activation
• Support finance activities during busy periods or team absence
• Assist with year-end audit requirements
• Support system updates and improvements (including ERP systems)
• Complete government statistical surveys and charity payments
• Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives within the finance team
• Carry out general administrative duties as required

About You

You are a detail oriented and organised individual who enjoys working in a structured environment and takes pride in delivering accurate work. You are a strong team player who can also work independently, using your initiative to manage tasks and meet deadlines.

You are proactive, reliable, and keen to learn, with a positive attitude and a willingness to support the wider team where needed.

Essential

• Previous experience in a Finance Assistant or similar role
• Strong attention to detail and high level of accuracy
• Good communication and interpersonal skills
• Ability to build effective working relationships
• Strong organisational skills with the ability to meet deadlines
• IT literate with experience in Microsoft Office
• Confident in learning and using new systems
• Self-motivated with the ability to work independently and as part of a team

Desirable

• Exposure to ERP systems

Your Future at MacTaggart Scott – What We Offer

• Flexible Working: Choose a 4- or 5-day week with flexible hours (07:00–19:00, core hours 09:30–15:30).

• Comprehensive Leave Policy including annual leave, paid parental leave, and military reservist leave.
• Career Development & Learning Support through our dedicated Learning and Development team.
• Wellbeing Programmes including an Employee Assistance Programme, online wellbeing resources, and onsite nurse.
• Health & Lifestyle Benefits such as life insurance, sick pay, free flu jabs, and a cycle-to-work scheme.
• Financial & Recognition Rewards including a company pension and a generous employee referral scheme.
• Convenience & Facilities: free onsite parking, canteen, and employee discounts.