Location
Westminster, London (Basement level with no lift access or windows)

Hours
Full Time - 37 hours per week

Salary
£46,040 per annum

About the Role
The Defence Nuclear Organisation (DNO) is responsible for the provision of the UK’s nuclear deterrent, including submarines and nuclear warheads, while advising on nuclear planning and fostering international cooperation. The DNO comprises a multidisciplinary team of over 700 professionals working alongside the Royal Navy, Submarine Delivery Agency, and Atomic Weapons Establishment as part of the Defence Nuclear Enterprise.

SSPAG, part of DNO, assures the effectiveness of the Nuclear Deterrent through patrol security analysis, assessments, and audits of key capabilities and operations. This role places you at the heart of critical Defence issues, delivering against one of the Ministry of Defence’s top priorities in a high-profile and dynamic environment.

As a Senior Studies Analyst within the SSPAG Strategic Assessments team, you will undertake simulation modelling, operational analysis, and technical studies supporting the UK submarine fleet. You will use, understand, and develop bespoke software tools to analyse submarine performance, supporting current operations and future procurement decisions.

You will manage all aspects of studies from inception and design through to briefing submarine operators and senior staff. Your work will provide assurance that UK submarines remain safe, secure, and effective.

Key techniques you will apply include:
- 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 Higher Executive Officer (HEO) and be expected to use your initiative and technical experience to develop solutions, supported by the team as you deepen your operational understanding.

The role requires handling sensitive information; therefore, applicants must be sole UK nationals.

Benefits
Alongside your salary, the Ministry of Defence contributes £13,337 towards membership of the Civil Service Defined Benefit Pension scheme. Additional benefits include:
- Tailored learning and development opportunities
- Flexible working options
- Inclusive and diverse culture
- Civil Service pension with an average employer contribution of 28.97%
- 25 days annual leave rising to 30 days after 5 years’ service
- On-site gym and nursery
- Cycle loan scheme
- Defence Sports & Recreational Association membership
- Defence Discount Service
- Thank You Scheme

Working Arrangements
This role offers a non-contractual hybrid working arrangement with a minimum of 60% office attendance expected, subject to site capacity and workplace adjustments. The post does not offer relocation expenses. New Civil Service entrants will be subject to a six-month probation period.

Experience
- Experience in numerical modelling, operational analysis, simulation, or computational analysis
- Programming experience in widely-used languages such as Python, MATLAB, C++, or Fortran
- Experience solving complex technical problems
- Experience in statistical data analysis
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to convey complex information clearly to diverse audiences and stakeholders at all levels

About You
You will have a strong scientific or technical background with an interest in the underwater domain. You must be able to assimilate information across a broad range of topics and learn new skills with limited supervision. You will demonstrate initiative and leadership, with line management responsibility for one HEO.

Qualifications
- A degree (or equivalent) in a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Maths) subject or other highly numerate discipline is mandatory
- A higher degree (MSc, MEng, PhD or equivalent) in a STEM or numerate subject is desirable

Desirable Skills
- Experience leading technical or scientific work related to the underwater domain
- Experience in signal processing
- Experience in acoustics or vibration-related scientific work
- Knowledge of submarine engineering and naval operations

Additional Requirements
- Sole UK Nationals only due to the sensitive nature of the role
- Successful candidates must undergo developed vetting security clearance
- Commitment to the Ministry of Defence’s zero-tolerance policy on unacceptable behaviours including bullying, harassment, discrimination, and victimisation

Behaviours Assessed
- Making Effective Decisions
- Leadership
- Communicating and Influencing
- Delivering at Pace