Data and Protocol Analyst

Overview

Dstl is growing within cyber. You will become part of a hardworking team central to keeping the UK safe by providing critical data support. Attendance at a Dstl location or Government Departments including the wider MoD or Delivery and Mission Partner premises for 60% of your working time is required.

In this role you will be a persistent problem solver who can analyse data, networks and device communications to support cyber operations and protect the UK.

You will:

• Use a range of tools and techniques depending on the data type and bearer, including high-level network captures (Ethernet, Wi-Fi), on-board bearers (UART, I2C), or data at rest (data logs, configuration files).
• Use industry standard analysis tools and, if required, write your own tools for protocol and data analysis and extend existing tools.
• Understand the intricate details of communication components while maintaining a systems-level view of the device.

Dstl offers opportunities to work on unique capabilities, develop technical knowledge and collaborate with colleagues to support UK cyber operations.

Find out more in the candidate pack on Civil Service Jobs.

Dstl is committed to diversity and inclusion and aims to create an inclusive working environment where each employee can fulfil their potential.

Job description

In this role you will:

• Use a range of tools and techniques depending on the data type and bearer, including high-level network captures (Ethernet, Wi-Fi), on-board data bearers (UART, I2C), or data at rest on a system (data logs, configuration files).
• Use industry-standard tools for analysis and, if required, write your own tools for protocol and data analysis and extend existing tools.
• Be a persistent and inquisitive puzzle solver with a systems-level understanding of the device and its interactions.

Safety at Dstl

Accountable for ensuring safe and secure work; actions include:

• Understand and meet defined health and safety responsibilities as written in Dstl policy.
• Demonstrate the expected behaviours as defined by the Civil Service and Dstl and lead by example.
• Maintain training, experience and knowledge for self and direct reports (competent / SQEP).
• Foster a working environment supportive of Dstl’s approach to security, health, wellbeing, safety and environment (HSEP) management.
• Be aware of the downstream impact of actions on those outside immediate control.
• Implement Dstl policies and ensure compliance with the Management System.

Person specification

Qualifications

• Relevant STEM-based degree or equivalent skills qualifications or experience are welcome to apply.

Technical Skills

Essential

• Experience with at least one high-level programming language (e.g., C/C++ or Python).
• Knowledge of computer networking with an interest in analysing communication protocols.

At least one of:

• Awareness of compression, obfuscation and/or encryption techniques.
• Knowledge of data encoding techniques (e.g., raw binary formats, base64, Unicode).
• Experience using tools for packet, data and/or binary analysis (e.g., Wireshark, 010 Editor, Ghidra).

Experience

To be considered for this role we expect you to have:

• Worked on complex and non-routine problems, drawing together disparate information and making meaningful technical assessments, ideally in an engineering or technology environment.
• A clear aptitude for understanding how different technologies work, particularly device communication and data storage.
• A persistence and tenacity to coordinate people and information to produce high-quality technical products.

Important Information

Our work in defence, security and intelligence requires UK National status with the ability to gain a high level of security clearance. If you are international or dual-national, consider applying to government, security or defence partners. This role requires full UK security clearance (Developed Vetting may be required for some roles, with residence in the UK for the past 5–10 years).

If you are a current Dstl employee, please inform your line manager about your application and possible release dates to avoid potential withdrawal of a job offer.

Behaviours

We will assess you against these behaviours during the selection process:

• Delivering at Pace
• Communicating and Influencing
• Working Together
• Changing and Improving

Benefits

Salary and benefits: £29,001 salary plus £8,401 employer contribution to Civil Service Defined Benefit Pension scheme. Additional benefits include a Civil Service Pension summary, flexible working options, and other employee benefits described in the information pack.

Other information

Selection process uses Success Profiles and will assess Behaviours and Experience. For recruitment help, contact the Dstl Recruitment Team at dstlrecruitment@dstl.gov.uk. Applications should be truthful and based on your own experience. See candidate guidance for more details.