Accounts Assistant (AAT Level 3+)

About Equity Accounting

Equity Accounting (NE) LLP is a growing accountancy practice providing accounting, tax and advisory services to a diverse portfolio of clients. Our clients include sole traders, partnerships, limited companies and contractors operating across multiple industries. Due to continued growth, we are looking for an Accounts Assistant to join our busy team in Durham.

About the role

This is an opportunity for an accounts assistant with at least 2 years' experience working within a UK accountancy practice to manage a varied workload covering bookkeeping, VAT, year-end accounts, taxation and client support. You'll need strong technical knowledge, excellent client management skills and the ability to work independently while contributing to the wider team.

We are looking for an AAT level 3+ accountant or QBE. This role is not appropriate for a trainee ACA/ACCA.

What you'll be doing

• Complete monthly bookkeeping and transaction reconciliations using cloud-based accounting software such as Xero, Bright Tax and QuickBooks.
• Prepare and submit VAT returns covering both the VAT Flat Rate Scheme and standard-rate VAT, ensuring Making Tax Digital (MTD) compliance.
• Prepare year-end accounts for sole traders, partnerships and limited companies in accordance with relevant accounting standards and HMRC requirements.
• Review accounting information carefully, identify anomalies and raise queries with management where required.
• Provide clients with tax advice in line with current HMRC guidance, including income tax, corporation tax, capital gains tax, dividend tax and allowable expenses.
• Manage client queries promptly and efficiently.
• Organise your workload effectively to meet strict deadlines and competing priorities.
• Liaise with HMRC on behalf of clients when required.
• Keep up to date with changes to tax law, VAT rules, HMRC guidance and relevant legislation to support accurate advice and compliance.
• Develop and maintain strong client relationships, providing a high standard of customer service and acting as a trusted adviser.

Essential requirements

To be considered for this position, you must have:

• A minimum of 2 years' experience working in a UK accountancy practice environment.
• AAT Level 3 qualified or above or qualified by experience (3yrs+)
• Knowledge of the UK tax system, including corporation tax and dividend tax.
• Knowledge of current HMRC guidance and tax legislation.
• Competence using Excel and general IT systems.
• Excellent attention to detail and a high level of accuracy.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to explain financial concepts to clients clearly and simply.
• Strong organisation and workload-management skills, with the ability to prioritise effectively and meet deadlines.
• The ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• A proactive, client-focused and solutions-oriented approach with a positive attitude.
• UK work authorisation.

Desirable requirements

It would also be beneficial if you have:

• Knowledge of Construction Industry Scheme (CIS) reporting.
• Understanding of VAT Flat Rate Scheme, UK tax system HMRC guidance, Making Tax Digital requirements for VAT and Income Tax
• Experience preparing and completing sets of accounts.
• A strong understanding of Making Tax Digital requirements for VAT and Income Tax.
• Proficiency with accountancy software such as Xero, Bright Tax, QuickBooks or similar.

Pay and benefits

Salary: £28,000 - £32,000 per year

Benefits include:

• Company pension
• Free parking
• On-site parking

Working pattern and location

This is a full-time, permanent, in-person position based in Durham DH1 5HL.

You will be required to work from the office five days per week and must be able to commute to Durham DH1 5HL reliably each working day.

Normal working hours: 37.5 hours per week, Monday to Friday.

Please note that hybrid and remote working are not available for this position.

Application process

Please submit your resume and any additional examples of your work for review.

1st Stage: 20-minute Screening Interview with our recruiter on behalf of Equity Accounting
2nd Stage: Partner Interview

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