Cyber, Sensor & Information Warfare

Dstl is the science and technology arm of the Ministry of Defence. As part of UK Government we do sensitive and specialist work that cannot be done anywhere else. 

Dstl’s Cyber and Information Systems Division comprises some 450 scientists and engineers working on state-of-the-art military challenges such as: 

• Electronic Warfare in a contested and congested electromagnetic environment 

• Developing novel techniques and concepts to protect sensors and navigation systems 

• Cyber defence and attack 

• Information systems and communications 

• Data science and artificial intelligence 

• Developing space technologies and mission concepts 

• Ballistic Missile Defence 

• Intelligence and surveillance in future battle-spaces 

“As a dedicated and specialist organisation Dstl provides innovative technologies and optimises in-service equipment to have direct impact on current military operations.” - Major Ben, embedded military officer at Dstl 

What could you do? 

The Armed Forces need modern technology to keep Britain safe. To support them Dstl creates battle winning technology to deliver: 

• Advanced offensive cyber and electronic warfare techniques 

• Timely, dependable and meaningful information to the warfighter 

• Systems that are secure and protected 

• Data science and artificial intelligence for defence and security purposes 

• Space demonstrator missions and technologies 

• Novel sensing techniques and systems (including Quantum) 

Our work covers the full range of technological maturity levels – from developing novel techniques both in the lab and on field trials, through to supporting current military operations. To give you a flavour of the work you could be doing, see the attachment at the bottom of the page to read some first-hand experiences from our scientists and engineers. 

Who do we want to recruit? 

We have a tough but crucial mission, so we need bright people with a broad range of skills who can rise to the challenge. We want people with years of experience in their field right through to raw talent straight from university that we can harness and nurture. It is not necessary to have completed a degree; we also welcome applications from those who have completed apprenticeships or who have alternative experience. 

We want people with knowledge in one or more of the following areas: 

• Radar and Radar Electronic Surveillance 

• Electronics 

• Radio frequency or communications systems 

• Navigation systems 

• Systems engineering 

• Mathematics or digital signal processing 

• Physics 

• Quantum Science 

• Space science or astrophysics 

• Computer science, software engineering or network engineering 

• Information technology or technical architecture 

• Verification and validation 

You should have knowledge in at least one of these areas, but the most important traits are an ability to solve complex problems and a willingness to learn. We are looking for people who are: 

• Inquisitive, curious and want to know how things work 

• Able to work as part of a team 

• Passionate about making things happen 

• Already enjoying experimenting with technology 

• Already enjoying reading and learning about the newest technology 

“I trained as a mechanical engineer but I always preferred the systems engineering thought process. I never intended to work in cyber, but when the opportunity for a systems engineering role arose I applied and was successful; I find the work exciting and interesting. I’ve always had an urge to learn things that lie outside my core area of expertise and Dstl has given me that opportunity.” Leo, systems engineer 

Dstl recognises the importance of diversity and inclusion as people from diverse backgrounds bring fresh ideas. We are committed to building an inclusive working environment in which each employee fulfils their potential and maximises their contribution. 

Why work for Dstl? 

Our unique position in government means that you will: 

• Work on a variety of interesting and challenging problems that owing to their sensitivity cannot be done elsewhere 

• Make a difference and have pride in what you do; our work improves the front-line capability of the UK Armed Forces and keeps British citizens safe 

• Do the right things for the right reasons; we’re impartial and not in it for profit 

• Form links across Government, industry and academia. We work with an array of partners both at home and abroad including the Armed Forces, other Government departments and industry 

• Develop your career in exciting new areas that are growing to meet cutting-edge challenges 

“One of the benefits about working for Dstl is the access to unlimited information on science and technology from the complete breadth of industry, academia and our allies; something that you never get working in industry. Also, when on trials, I’ve had effective command of warships, fast jets and tanks; I mean if during an experiment I tell the Captain to turn left now and the ship turns left, I’m in command right? I’ve been places and seen things that most people will never see.” Peter, principal engineer 

What benefits can you can expect? 

Our available roles cover Dstl’s career level 4 (early career/graduate earning between £21,257 to £27,577 depending on qualification) upto levels 5 & 6 (experienced engineers/scientists earning between £35,916 to £52,633 depending on experience). 

In addition we offer you: 

• Real responsibility from the beginning 

• Development through training, chartership support, PhD or MSc opportunities, coaching and mentoring 

• A new starters network and programme 

• Highly flexible working hours with no core hours, and the option for part-time or shared working arrangements 

• 25 days annual leave growing to 30 days after 5 years’ service, plus 8 bank holidays, and the opportunity to buy up to 10 days more leave 

• Generous pension allowances 

• On-site gym, sports and social clubs, and other benefits like discounts through a range of schemes 

“The best thing for me about working for Dstl has been the training and career development I have had. I started as an apprentice and now I have a Master’s degree in Signal Processing and Machine Intelligence. Even though this sounds specialised I have worked across seven or eight different jobs. The best work I have done is work that directly related to operations where equipment I developed saved lives.” – Jill, principal engineer 

Security 

Our posts are only open to UK nationals and require standard Security Clearance (SC). In addition some roles require Developed Vetting (DV) and proof of residency in the UK for the last 10 years. 

Application process 

Step 1: Application 

Please apply to this job advert with a CV and a covering letter (of no more than two pages) explaining how your skills could benefit our work. Please highlight any preferences for particular technical areas. 

Step 2: Phone interviews 

We will have an informal exploratory conversation to understand your skills and experience better. This is also a chance for you to ask questions about working at Dstl. 

Step 3: Technical and competency based interview (in-person) 

If invited to interview you will be assessed on your technical ability and a variety of competencies specific to the role and level you’ve applied to. More details will be provided before interview.

Benefits

Pensions

Civil Service pension schemes may be available for successful candidates.

Things you need to know

Security

Successful candidates must meet the security requirements before they can be appointed. The level of security needed is security check.

Selection process details

Feedback will only be provided if you attend an interview or assessment.

Nationality requirements

Open to UK nationals only.

This job is not open to candidates who hold a dual nationality.

Working for the Civil Service

The Civil Service Code sets out the standards of behaviour expected of civil servants.

We recruit by merit on the basis of fair and open competition, as outlined in the Civil Service Commission's recruitment principles.

The Civil Service embraces diversity and promotes equality of opportunity. There is a guaranteed interview scheme (GIS) for candidates with disabilities who meet the minimum selection criteria.

Apply and further information

Contact point for applicants

dstlrecruitment@dstl.gov.uk

Sift/interview dates and location

Sifting will take place every 2 weeks during the advertising period. Telephone interview will take place shortly after each sift.

Further information

Please note that Dstl will be contacting candidates via email and you should check your junk mail folder regularly. Any attachments may not be available via smart phone or tablet views. 

If you are applying for this position as a Job Share please indicate if you have a partner who is also applying for this vacancy and if you are successful but they are not if you would still consider the role.