Submarine Patrol Systems Analyst (SSPAG)

at  Ministry of Defence

JOB SUMMARY

Do you want to be at the heart of real Defence issues and play a key role in the United Kingdom’s (UK) national security?
Established in April 2016, the Defence Nuclear Organisation (DNO) delivers nuclear capability to deter threats and protect our nation. The DNO oversees all defence nuclear business (excluding operations) and is responsible for providing nuclear deterrence; sponsoring the Defence Nuclear Enterprise (all the organisations, programmes and people that sustain the UK’s nuclear deterrent); and advising on UK nuclear policy, planning and international co-operation on nuclear matters.
The UK’s independent nuclear deterrent has existed for over 60 years to deter the most extreme threats to our national security and way of life, and that of our NATO Allies. To ensure that we have a credible and capable nuclear deterrent for as long as the security situation requires, we are building four new nuclear armed submarines – known as the Dreadnought Class – and replacing our nuclear warheads. These renewal programmes will utilise world-leading technology and are a showcase in science and engineering, highlighting the prowess of British industry.
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 know that diverse teams bring a wide range of perspectives, experiences and ideas, which lead to better decision-making, creativity and innovation. 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.
Strategic Systems Performance Analysis & Assessment Group (SSPAG) is part of the Defence Nuclear Organisation (DNO), based in MOD Main Building, London. We provide independent assessment of the Nuclear Deterrent through a programme of technical studies and audits of key Deterrent capabilities. Our assessments are central to senior decision making within the Ministry of Defence.
Being at the heart of real Defence issues, we will be delivering against one of the Department’s top three priorities, in a high-profile area which is rarely out of the news.
This position is advertised at 37 hours per week.

JOB DESCRIPTION

We are a small and diverse team of analysts working directly alongside Royal Navy submariners, utilising our skills in engineering, science, computer programming and analysis to add critical value to defence.
We deliver performance analysis of operations, enabling partners to be advised of issues and risks, to ensure the continued delivery of a minimum, assured, credible nuclear deterrent.
We are looking for individuals with a scientific or technical background, interested in tackling exciting and meaningful roles, to join our growing team in MoD Main Building, London. Successful candidates will be involved with a high profile and distinctive portfolio and gain an outstanding insight into the captivating world of submarines.

Your responsibilities will include, but not be limited to, the following:

• Developing, reporting and maintaining metrics for SSBN System Analysis, exploiting analytical methods and models to identify performance indicators and trends.
• Exploiting tools, techniques and data to improve our understanding of submarine systems availability, reliability and performance.
• Promoting best practice and implementing a strategy to evolve systems analysis to include new, more efficient and effective techniques.
• Engaging with the wider Nuclear Enterprise and other stakeholders in government and industry to access relevant data and analysis.

Due to the sensitive nature of this role candidates must be sole UK Nationals to apply for this position.
Due to security constraints, this post is exempt from hybrid working requests. Requests for flexible and condensed working patterns can be considered but may be limited. Candidates should consider this and must discuss with recruiting line manager before submitting an application.
This post is on the MOD Civilian Nuclear Post Control List (PCL) and may attract the Nuclear Recruitment and Retention Allowance (RRA). This is a discretionary allowance. The post being listed on the PCL does not mean that the post holder will have an automatic entitlement to receive the RRA. The NSQEP RRA is not a contractual allowance and can be amended or withdrawn without notice in line with MOD Main and Submarine Delivery Agency policy.

PERSON SPECIFICATION

We are looking for someone with good analytical skills and intellectual curiosity. You will be a problem solver, who can demonstrate objectivity and high levels of integrity in the face of challenges to your assessments by peers or senior decision makers.
You need to be a team player and will be expected to build networks across the Nuclear Enterprise. This exciting role will expose you to key aspects of submarine operations and you will have trusted access to decision makers, so you will need to be confident in your presentation of complex information.

ESSENTIAL QUALIFICATIONS

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

DESIRABLE SKILLS

Although not essential and training will be provided, you would benefit from an understanding of one or more of the following areas.

• Communication/Network systems;
• Submarine tactical weapons systems;
• Submarine marine engineering systems;
• Software engineering / programming skills;
• Submarine operations;
• The Defence Nuclear Enterprise.

QUALIFICATIONS

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

BEHAVIOURS

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

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

We only ask for evidence of these behaviours on your application form:

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

Benefits

Alongside your salary of £35,290, Ministry of Defence contributes £9,528 towards you being a member of the Civil Service Defined Benefit Pension scheme. Find out what benefits a Civil Service Pension provides.

• Learning and development tailored to your role
• An environment with flexible working options
• A culture encouraging inclusion and diversity
• A Civil Service pension with an average employer contribution of 27%
• 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

Please note the office is situated underground with no windows and access is by two flights of stairs only.
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 review of all pay related allowances which could impact on those allowances that the post currently being advertised attracts.
Any move to MOD from another employer will mean you can no longer access childcare vouchers. This includes moves between government departments. You may however be eligible for other government schemes, including Tax-Free Childcare. Determine your eligibility at https://www.childcarechoices.gov.uk/.
The Ministry of Defence is committed to providing a safe and healthy working environment for its staff which includes educating them on the benefits of not smoking, protecting them from the harmful effects of second-hand smoke and supporting those who want to give up smoking. Under the Smoke-Free Working Environment policy, Smoking and the use of all tobacco products (including combustible and chewing tobacco products) will not be permitted anywhere in the Defence working environment however some exemptions are in place, please refer to local guidance. The policy is Whole Force and includes all Defence personnel, contractors, visitors and other non-MOD personnel. All applicants seeking, considering, or accepting employment with the Ministry of Defence should be aware of this policy and that it is already in place at a number of Defence Establishments.
MOD Recruitment Satisfaction Survey – we may contact you regarding your experience to help us improve our customer satisfaction. The survey is voluntary and anonymous. You may however be given the opportunity to provide additional information to help us improve our service which includes the collection of some personal data as defined by the United Kingdom General Data Protection Regulation (UK GDPR). The MOD Privacy Notice sets out how we will use your personal data and your rights.
Things you need to know

NATIONALITY REQUIREMENTS

Open to UK nationals only.

TYPE OF ROLE

Analytical
Engineering
Information Technology
Operational Research
Science
Statistics

Your responsibilities will include, but not be limited to, the following:

• Developing, reporting and maintaining metrics for SSBN System Analysis, exploiting analytical methods and models to identify performance indicators and trends.
• Exploiting tools, techniques and data to improve our understanding of submarine systems availability, reliability and performance.
• Promoting best practice and implementing a strategy to evolve systems analysis to include new, more efficient and effective techniques.
• Engaging with the wider Nuclear Enterprise and other stakeholders in government and industry to access relevant data and analysis