Work with us
We are a value driven organisation, existing to meet the needs of our members who are students at the University of Derby. Every University is required to have a Students’ Union by virtue of the 1994 Education Act, the broad objective for each Union is to represent the needs of students to the University, provide (where relevant) welfare services, ensure there are opportunities to play sport and engage on recreational activities, and to run free and fair elections for our own governance.
We have a team of up to 35 permanent employees and up to 50+ part-time student employees all of whom play a key role in delivering a wide range of activities and support services for students. We provide a high level of student representation at the University via our four full time elected Officer Trustees: President, Vice President (Activities), Vice President (Education) and Vice President (Welfare).
Current Vacancies
We currently have no open vacancies, please check back later.
PAL Leader
- Contract
- Fixed Term running 4th August 2026 – 30th July 2027
- Hours of Work
- Term Time only, up to 4 hours per week / these hours will fit with your studies
- Salary
- National Minimum Wage per hour and if applicable subject to TAX & NI contribution
- Location
- Hybrid (home site and Microsoft Teams)
- Applications close
- 29th April 2026
The PAL scheme at the Union of Students is recruiting students from second year and above to the role of PAL Leader. This role supports first year and foundation students with their transition to university and academic study.
We are looking for students to support this scheme during term time. Successful applicants will be given training and will support other students in their discipline. The PAL Leader role has a flexible working pattern which can work around study and other personal commitments.
Finance, People and Payroll Senior Coordinator
- Contract
- Permanent
- Hours of Work
- Part-time 28 hr working week (the Union is willing to consider job-share and flexible hours)
- Salary
- £27,000-£29,744 (pro rata and dependant on experience)
- Location
- Kedleston Road, and one day working from home
- Applications close
- 15th May 2026
The post holder will support the Head of Finance in the effective and efficient operation of the Finance department: preparing and processing two payrolls for our permanent and student staff and support the preparation of the financial management reports each month. A strong working knowledge of payroll (ideally Sage) and Sage software (ideally 200) is required.
Every day I skip into work!
I have worked at the Union of Students since 2024 and every day I skip into work because I love my job!! I love everyone I work with, I love the variation of work in my role, I love the values we share, I love the Uni life vibe and getting involved outside of finance and being with our students.
No day ever looks the same
I love the chance to make change that has a real impact on students life at Derby. I've had excellent support from my manager to be creative and try new things. No day ever looks the same and I really enjoy that variation and challenge as a senior leader.
A fun, welcoming, place to work
I’ve worked at the Union for nearly six years now, and I can genuinely say I love my job. The Union truly prioritises staff wellbeing, from our monthly breakfast mornings to generous annual leave (including your birthday off!), brilliant training opportunities, staff days out, and our annual Christmas party. It's a fun, welcoming place to work where creativity is encouraged and ideas are valued.
I genuinely enjoy the work I do
I love being an advisor. The team here at Derby Union is amazing, and collaborating with other teams is so much fun and completely seamless. I genuinely enjoy the work I do, especially knowing that the support we provide can literally change a student’s life. Every day is different, and that’s what makes my role so interesting and fulfilling.