DNO SSPAG Strategic Assessments Technical Partner

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. 

SSPAG is part of the DNO.  SSPAG’s role is to help assure the effectiveness of the nuclear deterrent. We do this through a programme of analysis, assessments and audits of key capabilities and operations. Our assessments 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.

The Technical Partner role is based in the SSPAG Strategic Assessments team. We undertake bespoke numerical simulations, conduct operational analysis, and provide technical studies which support the UK submarine fleet. The Technical Partner role is unique within the team, split between technical work and project delivery to understand and deliver novel capabilities. The post would suit an individual with experience in leading and managing technical projects, possessing an inquisitive technical mindset and the aptitude to learn from engagement with engineering, analytical, science and technology communities.

This position is advertised at 37 hours per week.

You will be responsible for leading and managing the design, implementation and support of external projects delivering capabilities and understanding critical to the team’s ability to operate. You will have responsibility for managing a substantial portfolio of scientific studies delivering insight into future technologies related to the effectiveness of the nuclear deterrent. You will have opportunities to engage across MoD, DSTL, industry, academia, and wider government in the identification of routes for delivering bespoke technical services, data, and new capabilities to the team.

You will also contribute directly to technical studies relating to submarine effectiveness. These studies cover a wide range of techniques, including operational analysis; creation and use of bespoke numerical models; signal processing and signal detection.

• Flexible and condensed working patterns can be considered for this post but due to security constraints the role is not suitable for hybrid working. Candidates are encouraged to discuss options with the recruiting line manager before submitting an application.

You will need excellent verbal and written communication skills and be confident working on your own initiative, with drive and determination, dealing with stakeholders at all levels both within and outside the organisation.

The following skills and experience are highly desirable:

• Experience of technical or scientific work in relation to the underwater domain.
• Experience of conducting operational analysis, numerical modelling, simulation, or computational analysis.
• Experience in any signal detection technologies.
• An understanding of submarine operations.
• Experience of project / programme management

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

• Changing and Improving
• Leadership
• Communicating and Influencing
• Making Effective Decisions

• 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 27%
  • (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

  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.

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Job contact :

• Name : DNO-SSPAGRegistry@mod.gov.uk
• Email : DNO-SSPAGBM@mod.gov.uk
• Telephone : 0207 2184696

Recruitment team

• Email : DBSCivPers-Resourcingteam3@mod.gov.uk