DNO-SSPAG Nuclear Strategic Assessments, Senior Studies Analyst

Job summary

The Defence Nuclear Organisation (DNO) is responsible for the provision of the nuclear deterrent, encompassing our submarines and nuclear warheads, while also advising on UK nuclear planning and fostering international co-operation on nuclear matters. With a multidisciplinary team of over 700 professionals, the DNO brings together expertise in science, engineering, finance, policy, programme delivery, and more. We work in partnership with the Royal Navy, the Submarine Delivery Agency and the Atomic Weapons Establishment as the Defence Nuclear Enterprise (DNE).

Here at DNO we strongly believe that diversity and inclusion is not only the right thing to do but is also essential for a thriving and successful organisation. We have a culture where differences are celebrated, and our people feel supported, included and empowered. Join us and be part of an organisation that truly values diversity and inclusion and makes a positive impact on the world.

SSPAG is part of the Defence Nuclear Organisation (DNO). SSPAG’s role is to help assure the effectiveness of the Nuclear Deterrent. We do this through a programme of patrol Security analysis, assessments and audits of key capabilities and operations. Our assessments and analysis are central to senior decision making within the Ministry of Defence. In SSPAG you will be at the heart of real Defence issues, delivering against one of the Department’s top priorities, in a high-profile area which is rarely out of the news.

This position is advertised at 37 hours per week.

Job description

This role is based in the SSPAG Strategic Assessments team. We undertake simulation modelling, operational analysis and technical studies in support of the UK submarine fleet.

You will use, understand and develop our suite of bespoke software tools to conduct analysis relating to submarine performance to support both current operations and future procurement decisions.

You will have responsibility for all aspects of these studies from their initial inception and design through to briefing submarine operators and senior staff. The outputs of your work will be used to provide assurance that UK submarines remain safe, secure and effective.

You will need to apply a wide range of techniques, including:

• creation and use of bespoke numerical models using MATLAB, Python and Fortran;
• application of scientific knowledge to develop solutions to unfamiliar problems;
• signal processing and signal detection;
• operational analysis;
• analysis of ocean environments;
• analysis of submarine capabilities;
• geospatial analysis.

You will have line management responsibility for one HEO. You will be expected to use your own initiative and technical experience to develop solutions. The team will provide close support as you become established and improve your understanding of the operational context.

Person specification

We are looking for someone with a strong scientific or technical background who has some experience in numerical modelling, operational analysis, simulation or computational analysis, and an interest in the underwater domain. Due to the diversity of technical knowledge required for this role, it is essential that you can assimilate information covering a broad range of topics and learn new skills with limited supervision.

Mandatory Requirements:

The candidate must have:

• A degree (or equivalent) in a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Maths) subject or other highly numerate subject;
• Experience in programming in any widely-used programming language, e.g. Python, Matlab, C++, Fortran;
• Experience of conducting operational analysis, numerical modelling or simulation;
• Experience of solving complex technical problems;
• Experience in statistical analysis of data;
• Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written, and the ability to succinctly convey complex information to a varied audience and to deal with stakeholders at all levels both within and outside the organisation.

Desirable Skills

• A higher degree (e.g. MSc, Meng, PhD or equivalent) in a STEM or other highly numerate subject;
• Experience in leading technical or scientific work related to the underwater domain;
• Experience in signal processing;
• Experience in leading technical or scientific work related to acoustics or vibration;
• Knowledge of submarine engineering;
• Knowledge of naval operations.

Due to the sensitive information handled by this post, candidates must be Sole UK Nationals Only to apply.

*The work location in London is located in the basement level with no lift access or windows*

Qualifications

A degree (or equivalent) in a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Maths) subject or other highly numerate subjects

Behaviours

We'll assess you against these behaviours during the selection process:

• Making Effective Decisions
• Leadership
• Communicating and Influencing
• Delivering at Pace

Benefits

Alongside your salary of £46,040, Ministry of Defence contributes £13,337 towards you being a member of the Civil Service Defined Benefit Pension scheme. Find out what benefits a Civil Service Pension provides (opens in a new window).

• We truly believe that the MOD is a great place to work, and we offer a unique employee experience. We want to ensure that every single employee feels appreciated & fairly rewarded and offer the following additional benefits:
• Learning and development tailored to your role and broader skill development, enabling you to build a long-term career in your chosen area. Where appropriate there will be offers of training under our apprenticeship schemes.
• An environment with flexible working options
• A culture encouraging inclusion and diversity
• A Civil Service pension with an average employer contribution of 28.97%
• (Automatically filled when submitting)
• 25 days annual leave rising to 30 days upon completion of 5 years’ service
• On-site Gym
• Cycle Loan (Advance on Salary)
• Thank You Scheme
• Defence Sports & Recreational Association (DSRA)
• Defence Discount Service
• On-site Nursery

Hybrid Working:
Where business needs allow, some roles may be suitable for a combination of office and working from home as part of a non-contractual hybrid working arrangement. All office-based employees will be expected to spend a minimum of 60% of their working time in office, subject to site capacity and any required workplace adjustments. Requirements to attend other locations for official business, or work in another MOD workplace, will also count towards this level of office attendance. Applicants can request further information regarding how this and other flexible working arrangements may work in their team from the Vacancy Holder (see advert for contact details). Defence Business Services cannot respond to any questions about working arrangements.

The post does not offer relocation expenses.

External recruits who join the MOD who are new to the Civil Service will be subject to a six-month probation period.

Please Note: Expenses incurred for travel to interviews will not be reimbursed.

Please be advised that the Department is conducting a re