Systems Officer

Overview

Are you a highly organised and detail-focused professional with a passion for systems, data accuracy and continuous improvement? We are looking for a Systems Officer to join our Pensions & Investments team and play a key role in maintaining the integrity, security and effectiveness of our pension administration systems.

Working closely with the Senior Systems Officer and Systems Controllers, you will support the management and development of specialist pension systems, ensuring data is accurate, secure and compliant with Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS) regulations. This is an excellent opportunity for someone who enjoys problem solving, working with data and contributing to the delivery of an important public service

About us

You’ll work in a large team of approximately 50 colleagues, made up of different sub teams all with clear cut roles. You will be joining this friendly and outgoing team of 5 at a busy time and will play a valuable and essential role within the team. 

We can offer you a positive and supportive environment to work in, with excellent support from your manager and colleagues. Full training is provided for this role with potential opportunities for career progression.

About the role

As a Systems Officer, you will support the administration and maintenance of the pension software system, helping to ensure that member records are accurate and up to date whilst meeting regulatory requirements.

Key responsibilities will include:

• Processing annual returns from scheme employers through computerised data uploads and validating contribution and pay information.
• Producing and reviewing year-end error reports, identifying and investigating data discrepancies.
• Supporting the production and distribution of annual benefit statements for pension scheme members.
• Assisting with software upgrades, system developments and the implementation of new releases.
• Carrying out system housekeeping activities to ensure data quality and system efficiency.
• Producing management information and statutory reports to support reporting requirements, including those for HMRC and The Pensions Regulator.
• Helping to maintain the security and integrity of pension data held within the system.
• Providing support and cover for Systems Controllers when required.

Any-Desk:

As an ‘any-desk’ worker, you’ll need to be connected to our network to access digital folders and resources, but this can either be from home or an office location when required. You will be required to work from the office a couple of times a week, depending on your role and team requirements.

 

About you

We are looking for someone who is analytical, organised and committed to delivering high standards of work. You will be confident working with large volumes of data, able to identify errors and take a proactive approach to problem solving.

You will bring:

• Experience in a pensions environment, ideally within the Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS).
• Good knowledge of pension administration systems, policies and relevant legislation.
• Strong ICT skills, including Microsoft Office applications and specialist systems.
• Excellent communication skills, with the ability to explain technical information clearly to non-specialists.
• Strong planning and organisational skills, with the ability to prioritise workloads and meet statutory deadlines.
• Excellent numerical and analytical skills, supported by exceptional attention to detail.
• The ability to work collaboratively with colleagues and contribute positively to team objectives.
• A minimum education level of A-Level, NVQ Level 3, HNC or equivalent qualification.

Knowledge of the Altair pension administration system, experience of supporting projects and a relevant professional qualification would be advantageous.

We understand that candidates may use AI tools to assist with their applications. While we welcome innovation, we expect all submissions to reflect your own experience, skills, and achievements accurately. Please ensure your application is truthful and demonstrates your personal capabilities, as this will be assessed during the selection process.

Other information

For more information about this role, please contact Steven Price at [email protected] for an informal discussion.

Internal closing date: Friday 9^th October

Interview Date: Thursday 15^th October

We reserve the right to close the vacancy once we have received sufficient applications, so please be advised to submit your application as early as possible.

Our values and culture

We have a set of values, which our employees have chosen, that represent what we are – Proud, Ambitious, Collaborative and Trustworthy.

By joining Buckinghamshire Council, you can expect:

• a fair and inclusive culture
• the chance to really make a difference to those around you
• health and well-being initiatives including an Employee Assistance Programme, Mental Health First Aiders and mindfulness workshops
• a unified voice through our Employee Representative Group
• ongoing support, and the opportunity to develop and progress in your career with us
• opportunities to take part in fun activities such as fundraising and social events

At Buckinghamshire Council, we know that our biggest strength comes from the people that work for us, and that’s why we’re working hard to ensure we continue to be an accessible and inclusive organisation.

From dedicated staff networks overseen by our Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Steering Group, to proudly standing as a Disability Confident employer, it’s important to us that all our colleagues feel engaged, listened to, and valued. Our offer of flexible working empowers a productive and happy workforce and allows employees to combine work with other responsibilities and commitments.

We believe our workforce should reflect the diverse communities we service in Buckinghamshire, and are looking for like-minded individuals to join us in promoting equality, fairness, and inclusion for everyone.

About the Service Area

Corporate Finance sets the overall financial strategy for the Council as well as the financial, risk and control assurance framework. The service is responsible for co-ordinating the Medium-Term Financial Plan, as well overseeing essential services, from statutory financial reporting and pensions administration to strategic procurement and supplier relationship management, as well as financial support for major projects.

Our expert staff work collaboratively to set a balanced budget and review the Council’s financial framework and procedures and to establish an appropriate assurance framework. Now is an exciting time to join Corporate Finance as we continue to play a key role in supporting all front-line services, ensuring that value for money is achieved and financial activities are directed towards the Council’s priorities.

We recognise and reward you

Hard work and success deserves recognition. That’s why we pride ourselves on the benefits we give our people. We actively encourage a good work-life balance and promote flexible and agile working arrangements. We provide discounts on various Cafés, restaurants, shops and auto enrolment onto our generous Pension Scheme. In addition to the opportunity to gain membership to Costco, we have discounted gym memberships, travel discounts with Arriva and much more.

https://jobs.buckinghamshire.gov.uk/working-buckinghamshire-council/