SDA Strategic Weapons Systems Support Engineer

The Submarine Delivery Agency (SDA) is a part of the Ministry of Defence responsible for the procurement, in-service support, and disposal of the UK’s nuclear submarines. Our work is of unparalleled strategic importance nationally and internationally, ensuring the security of the UK’s continuous at-sea nuclear deterrent (CASD), and delivering some of the most technically complex programmes in defence. At least one of four nuclear-armed submarines, supported by smaller attack submarines, is on patrol at all times: 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

At the SDA, we strive to Support, Deliver and Aspire and put our values at the heart of our recruitment process. We believe that everyone should feel comfortable to be themselves and be supported to do their best work. As part of a diverse and inclusive workforce, our team will find a community to belong to. We believe that, by celebrating different backgrounds and different perspectives, together we’ll achieve the extraordinary.

Job description

The Submarine Delivery Agency (SDA) is offering an exciting opportunity for an experienced and motivated engineering professional to join our Trident Systems Project Team (TSPT). This is your chance to work alongside a team of highly skilled individuals, supporting some of the largest and most complex engineering programmes in the world. By joining TSPT, you will engage with advanced weapons and submarine systems, tackling unique engineering challenges while providing critical support to the Royal Navy and making a significant impact on the success of our projects.

In this role, you’ll contribute to the oversight and support of the Trident II Weapon System used by Vanguard Class submarines. Your responsibilities will cover key systems such as electrical power, rotating machinery, hydraulics, pneumatics, high-pressure systems, control systems, environmental systems, and automated technical information systems.

This role offers a unique opportunity to develop your expertise in the Trident II D5 Strategic Weapon System. You will gain a deep understanding of its operations, maintenance, and management, as well as the processes, stakeholders, and infrastructure that underpin this vital capability. As the Dreadnought Class Ship, Submersible, Ballistic, Nuclear (SSBN) programme gathers momentum, you will also assist in the preparations for its entry into service.This will involve training and equipment oversight at key locations, including Barrow-in-Furness, the UK Trident Training Facility, and the Strategic Weapons Systems Ashore (SWSA).

Your primary place of work will be at Bristol Abbey Wood, with regular travel to HMNB Clyde and HMNB Devonport, as well as occasional visits to Barrow-in-Furness and the USA. Hybrid and flexible working can be considered for this post. Successful candidates are encouraged to discuss options with the recruiting line manager before starting the role.

This is a rare opportunity to contribute to some of the most advanced engineering programmes in the world, supporting projects that are critical to national security. If you are ready to take on this exciting challenge and play a key role in the future of the Royal Navy’s strategic capabilities, we want to hear from you.

Key Responsibilities:

• Act as a subject matter expert across a range of mechanical and electrical systems
• Ensure the safety, reliability, and performance of strategic weapon support systems through rigorous technical oversight, risk analysis, and engineering management practices
• Build and maintain effective working relationships with stakeholders to ensure seamless delivery of engineering solutions
• Identify opportunities to enhance system performance, reduce risk, and improve lifecycle management through innovation and technical insight
• Oversee the development, review and maintenance of engineering documentation, ensuring compliance with regulatory and security standards
• Assist the Dreadnought Transition into Service team in the development of Dreadnought In-service Integrated Logistic Support Products

Please note there is a requirement for the post holder to undertake travel to various sites across the UK and overseas.

Due to the role’s location within an Information Protection Zone (IPZ), the use of medical devices or assistive technologies must be approved on a case-by-case basis due to security restrictions. It is essential that candidates are able to work within the IPZ. We encourage candidates to discuss their adjustment needs by emailing the job contact which can be found under the contact point for applicants section.

Person specification

To be successful with your application, you'll need to show that you meet the following essential criteria:

• Working towards Chartered or Incorporated Engineer or equivalent relevant professional registration
• Relevant Level 4 (or higher) qualification or equivalent experience
• Experience of providing technical advice and delivery of successful engineering outcomes
• Technical experience in their discipline or specialist area in a variety of contexts
• Have extensive experience of working with internal and external stakeholders

Behaviours

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

• Communicating and Influencing
• Making Effective Decisions

Technical skills

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

• Technical Decision Making – Supervised Practitioner
• Technical Requirements, Evaluation & Acceptance – Supervised Practitioner

Benefits

Alongside your salary of £38,700, Ministry of Defence contributes £11,211 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 employer contribution of 28.97%