HR Assistant

About the company

Saab UK is part of Scandinavia’s largest defence group, bringing together Swedish and British engineering expertise. The business operates across defence, aviation, space, and civil security, with a focus on advanced solutions and services that support safety and security. Its UK presence is growing steadily, with more than 600 employees working from eight locations, covering areas such as software engineering, underwater robotics, radar, artificial intelligence, and training for armed forces.

About the role

As an HR Assistant, you will support the daily administrative and operational needs of the human resources function. The position calls for strong discretion, a careful approach to detail, and the ability to stay proactive while handling a variety of HR tasks. You will assist across recruitment, onboarding, payroll, benefits, employee engagement, and HR system administration, while working closely with managers, security personnel, and other stakeholders to keep HR processes smooth and compliant.

What you will do

• Support hiring activities by handling offers, contracts, onboarding steps, and communication with managers and the recruitment team.
• Draft employment contracts for new joiners and internal transfers, making sure all documentation is accurate and complete.
• Oversee the new starter journey, including inductions and the collection and processing of required paperwork.
• Coordinate pre-employment screening such as right-to-work checks, BPSS, and security clearance processes where relevant.
• Work with hiring managers and security teams to ensure onboarding is completed in a timely and compliant manner.
• Maintain payroll information, including overtime, personal records, and employee changes, so monthly payroll can be processed correctly.
• Administer employee benefits, including medical cover, dental plans, salary sacrifice arrangements, and other benefit schemes for new starters and leavers.
• Help run wellbeing and engagement initiatives, support campus activities, and collect employee feedback to drive improvements.
• Carry out general HR administration across the employee lifecycle, including personnel files, HR system updates, and data maintenance.
• Guide users of HR systems, protect confidentiality, and uphold data security standards.
• Organise internal and external training, record information in HR platforms such as Workday, and track completion of mandatory learning.
• Assist with additional HR tasks and projects, including continuous improvement work within the department.

What we are looking for

The ideal candidate will already have experience in a busy HR environment and be comfortable balancing multiple priorities. You should be organised, analytical, and capable of solving problems sensibly and efficiently. Handling confidential employee matters with empathy and good judgement is essential, along with a strong eye for detail and the ability to work independently. Experience using HR systems such as Workday, plus familiarity with HR law, regulations, and best practice, will be a strong advantage. A CIPD Level 3 qualification or an equivalent background is preferred, and experience with data analysis or employee relations matters would also be beneficial. Good communication skills and a positive, can-do attitude are important for success in this position.

Benefits

Saab UK provides a benefits package aimed at supporting employee wellbeing and career growth. The package includes competitive pay, private medical and dental cover, pension provision, and employee assistance resources. Flexible working options help promote work-life balance, while learning and development opportunities support long-term progression. Employees are also encouraged to take part in company initiatives and join a collaborative, inclusive workplace culture.

Equal opportunity

Saab UK promotes an inclusive and respectful workplace where diversity is welcomed and all people are treated fairly. Applications are encouraged from candidates of all backgrounds, regardless of race, gender, age, disability, sexual orientation, religion, or other protected characteristics. The company believes that varied perspectives strengthen innovation, creativity, and performance.