DNO-SSPAG Nuclear Strategic Assessments, Senior Studies Analyst

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.

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.

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

Open to UK nationals only.

This vacancy is using Success Profiles (opens in a new window), and will assess your Behaviours and Experience.

Candidates can apply online via the Civil Service Jobs website by completing the application form before the deadline shown. Apply using the Civil Service Jobs apply button, filling in all required details in all sections. Using the Success Profiles link for information on format and style, ensure you provide evidence for all Behaviours and Experience sections requested in the appropriate competency style.

Please note that not following the appropriate format will mean that you may be unable to reach the required grades for sift or interview.

Candidates will be required to complete an online CV that includes job history, a list of relevant qualification details, and details of relevant previous skills and experience. Please also include any relevant responsibilities and achievements.

Candidates will be required to provide a statement of suitability. (500 Word count)

At sift, Candidates will be assessed against their CV, Statement of suitability and the following:

• Making Effective Decisisons
• Leadership
• Communicating & Influencing
• Delivering at Pace

Please note: If a large number of application are received, the initial sift will be based on "Leadership" only. However, evidence should be provided against all behaviours requested.

If successful in the sift, you will be invited to a face-to-face interview.

At interview, you will be asked questions that assess the following:

• Making Effective Decisisons
• Leadership
• Communicating & Influencing
• Delivering at Pace

Technical Skills:

• Understanding of physics
• Understanding of statistics
• Understanding of programming
• Your technical experience.

The requirements for the role have been benchmarked and these will be used to sift all candidates, with those meeting the requirements invited to interview.

Interviews will be conducted face to face in MoD Main Building, London, SW1A 2HB.

Candidates who are found to meet an acceptable standard at interview but are not successful, in one of the advertised posts may be considered for similar roles within the Business Unit.

The Civil Service embraces diversity and promotes equal opportunities. As such, we run a Disability Confident Scheme (DCS) for candidates with disabilities who meet the minimum selection criteria.

As a result of the changes to the UK immigration rules which came into effect on 1 January 2021, the Ministry of Defence will only offer sponsorship for a skilled worker visa under the points-based system, where a role has been deemed to be business critical. This role does not meet that category, and we will not sponsor a visa. It is therefore NOT open to applications from those who will require sponsorship under the points-based system.

Should you apply for this role and be found to require sponsorship, your application will be rejected and any provisional offer of employment withdrawn.

The Ministry of Defence requires all candidates who are successful at interview to declare any outside interests. These declarations will be discussed with successful candidates following the interview process and before a formal offer of employment is made, as some outside interests may not be compatible with MOD civilian roles. This will not, in the majority of cases, prevent employment in MOD, but it is a measure that must be taken to ensure that appropriate mitigations can be put in place to manage any potential, perceived or actual conflicts of interest from the first day of employment.

The Ministry of Defence adopts a zero-tolerance approach to unacceptable behaviours, which includes bullying, harassment, sexual harassment, discrimination, and victimisation. You will not be eligible and will not be considered for this post if you have been dismissed from a role for such unacceptable behaviours within the last five years. This will also apply if you resign or otherwise leave a role but, because of an adverse decision, would have been dismissed for gross misconduct had you continued in that employment. Pre-employment checks will be carried out.

Feedback will only be provided if you attend an interview or assessment.