Company Description
Universal Container Services Ltd is the UK’s premier provider of new and used shipping containers, site offices, and welfare units, serving both trade customers and the general public. Based in the North West of England, the company draws on over two decades of industry experience to deliver container storage solutions, tailored conversions, and ongoing maintenance services. Its extensive range of ISO-compliant containers is used for standard storage and transport, as well as customized applications such as offices, canteens, changing rooms, equipment stores, and clubhouses. Universal Container Services works with organizations of all sizes, from individuals to major shipping lines, offering bespoke solutions designed around each customer’s needs. The company prides itself on high-quality products, skilled staff, and comprehensive after-sales support.
About the role
We’re looking for a hands-on, detail-focused Accounts Assistant to join our finance team and take an active role in keeping our day-to-day accounts function running smoothly.
This is a varied role with genuine responsibility across sales ledger, purchase ledger, bank reconciliations and month-end, giving you the opportunity to build your experience and gain broader exposure across the finance function.
We’re looking for someone who takes pride in getting things right, is comfortable working with numbers and enjoys getting stuck in. You’ll work closely with colleagues, customers and suppliers to make sure accounts are accurate, queries are resolved and everything is processed correctly and on time.
You don’t need to have mastered every part of the role already. What matters is that you’re organised, proactive and keen to learn, with the confidence to take ownership of your work.
What you’ll actually be doing
You’ll have a hands-on role across the finance function, including:
- Supporting the purchase ledger, processing supplier invoices, maintaining accurate records and dealing with supplier queries
- Supporting the sales ledger, including raising invoices, allocating payments and monitoring outstanding balances
- Completing bank reconciliations, investigating discrepancies and ensuring transactions are accurately recorded
- Supporting the month-end close, including reconciliations, journals and general financial reporting
- Maintaining accurate financial records and ensuring transactions are processed correctly and on time
- Working closely with colleagues, customers and suppliers to resolve account queries and keep things moving
- Investigating discrepancies and identifying anything that doesn’t look right, rather than simply processing transactions
- Providing general support to the wider finance team and getting involved in ad hoc projects where required
- Helping to improve processes and find practical ways to make the day-to-day finance function more efficient
What we’re looking for
We’re not looking for someone who already knows everything. We’re looking for someone who is hands-on, organised and keen to develop, with a good understanding of accounting principles and the confidence to take ownership of their work.
You should ideally have:
- Previous experience in an Accounts Assistant, Finance Assistant or similar role
- Practical experience across sales ledger and purchase ledger
- A good understanding of bank reconciliations
- Some experience supporting month-end processes
- Strong attention to detail and a methodical approach to your work
- Good Excel skills and confidence using accounting systems
- The ability to manage your workload, prioritise tasks and meet deadlines
- Good communication skills and the confidence to deal with customers, suppliers and colleagues
- A positive, can-do attitude and willingness to get stuck in and support the wider team
- A genuine interest in developing your accounting knowledge and taking on more responsibility over time
AAT qualified or currently studying towards AAT would be a bonus, but it’s not essential.
Why join us?
This is more than just a transactional accounts role. You’ll have the opportunity to build your accounting experience, broaden your knowledge and take genuine ownership of your work within a supportive finance team.
You’ll be encouraged to learn, contribute ideas and develop your skills, with the opportunity to take on more responsibility as you grow into the role.
We’re a small, close-knit team where your work is noticed and where getting things right genuinely makes a difference.
What you’ll get
· £28,000 - £30,000 depending on experience
· Free on-site parking
· 20 days holiday plus bank holidays
· Hours: 8am-5pm, Monday to Friday
· Pension
· On-site gym
· Study Support Available
· A small, close-knit team where wins get noticed and celebrated
Interested?
If you’re an organised and motivated finance professional looking for your next opportunity, we’d love to hear from you.
Apply today and tell us a little about yourself and why you’d be a great fit for the team.