2026 Graduate Finance Assistant

Job Title: Graduate Finance Assistant 

This role does not provide sponsorship 

We're looking for bright and committed graduates who will bring energy, new ideas and a fresh perspective to help us become the recognised leader and transform the construction and engineering industry.    

Role Overview    

As part of the Finance Graduate Programme, you'll undertake three different one-year placements across the Laing O'Rourke portfolio which includes Projects, Plant & Equipment, Manufacturing, Overheads and Tax within the UK. All placements are based in our Dartford Head Office and the Finance Programme will give you a varied and diverse experience over the three years, working with people across finance and the wider business community. 

An example of the job description for one for the placement roles is shown below (UK Overheads): 

The role is within the UK Overheads Team and is involved in the preparation and analysis of periodic reporting regarding the UK Overheads cost centres.   

A flexible approach and the ability to embrace change within a dynamic and challenging work environment are crucial.  

You will be a detailed and deadline focused individual who has the ability to embrace change within a dynamic and challenging working environment. An ability to work within a team is essential as is the desire to streamline and improve the information flows within the team.  

Location   

Dartford – Head Office   

Qualifications   

Business degrees preferred (i.e., Accounting and Finance, Business Studies etc) but other degrees considered  

Professional Accreditation   

Option of either CIMA, ACCA or ICAEW accounting qualifications  

Key Deliverables and Accountabilities  

The primary responsibilities for this role within the UK Overheads Team include:  

• Assisting with the preparation of monthly management reports in accordance with the finance timetable and deadlines 

• Creating and posting journals into the general ledger 

• Analysing monthly results and providing variance analysis  

• Updating monthly forecasts by department within our financial systems 

• Maintaining schedules of prepayments and accruals in addition to providing monthly forecast updates 

• Monthly balance sheet reconciliations 

• Assisting with the preparation of quarterly forecasts and annual budgets for Overhead departments 

• Updating various ad hoc excel reports as required, including Legal and Communication functions spend analysis 

• Assisting with various analysis as required 

• Establishing key relationships with finance and non-finance personnel for all UK Overheads 

• You will support in driving cost efficiency and performance, by providing business insight and analytical support, evaluating opportunities/risks and driving finance transformation 

The Laing O'Rourke Graduate Development Programme - what can you expect?   

Our graduate programme is designed to embrace and develop your capabilities. Most importantly, you will be encouraged to continue learning throughout your career. You will be stretched, challenged and supported by a business that views your personal development and the achievement of professional accreditation as a priority.    
      
Our programme will give you the practical experience, technical learning and professional development while being part of the some of the most exciting construction and infrastructure projects in the UK.   

Our Application Process 

We are committed to providing a clear and supportive recruitment journey. Here is what you can expect when applying for one of our graduate opportunities: 

• CV Submission 
  Submit your CV for review. We will assess your application against the entry criteria for the role you are applying for. 

• Online Assessment 
  You will complete a series of assessments designed to understand how you approach workplace situations, your preferred ways of working, as well as exercises to evaluate your critical thinking and numerical reasoning skills. 

• Video Interview 
  At this stage, you will be invited to record responses to two questions set by our hiring team. You will have sufficient time to prepare and ensure you present yourself confidently. 

• Assessment Centre 
  Our in-person assessment centres, held at a LOR office, provide an opportunity for you to demonstrate your skills through a combination of individual tasks, short interviews, and group activities. This is also a chance to experience our culture first-hand. 

• Outcome 
  We aim to provide feedback and communicate the outcome of your assessment centre within two weeks. 

Entry requirements   

We are looking for graduates who meet the following criteria:    

• Studying or have obtained a Business related degree (i.e., Accounting and Finance, Business Studies etc) but other degrees considered  

• Studying a degree course with a clear route to professional accreditation    

• Your degree classification should be 2:2 or higher    

• Entry degrees will be listed within each of our graduate vacancies and differ from role to role  

• Strong numeracy and literacy skills 

• Flexibility as you may be required to work away     

• Eligible to work in the UK  

Accessibility and Support 
We are committed to ensuring our recruitment process is inclusive and accessible to all candidates. If you require any adjustments or support with your application, or at any stage of the process, please do not hesitate to contact us. 

  **The Graduate Development Programme will commence in September 2026**