Job description for Electrical Engineer

Would you like to apply your electrical power knowledge to some of the most complex platforms in the world? If so, we have an incredible opportunity to join the SDA as an Electrical Engineer based at HMNB Clyde.

The Electrical Design Authority (DA) within the SDA In-Service Submarines team (ISM) is responsible for providing safe to operate electrical systems across all the currently in-service Trafalgar, Vanguard and Astute Class submarines. As a member of the Electrical Design Authority, you will be responsible for assuring platform design intent and managing design changes, as well as supporting with the rectification of operational defects and ensuring platforms are safe for sea.

In this role, you’ll work with cutting-edge technology and a variety of specialist stakeholders to ensure our submarines can support the UK’s national security and other missions. You will form part of a team of circa 15 engineers, with different specialisations in electrical systems, from electrical power to control & indication and software.

This fascinating role will also give you the rare opportunity to get up close with some of the current in-service submarines and may involve survey and inspection responsibilities onboard. This could include physically demanding activities such as climbing vertical ladders, working at height and in confined spaces – suitable training will be provided as necessary.

Due to security requirements, this role is open to sole UK nationals only.

At the SDA, we champion flexible ways of working. Regular in-person attendance (3 days per week) is required onsite at HMNB Clyde to promote the benefits of face-to-face collaboration alongside flexibility of hours to support work-life balance. Initially, you may be expected to attend more frequently to familiarise yourselves with the site, the team, and your role.

What you’ll be doing

Your key responsibilities will include, but not be limited to, the following:

• Acting as MoD intelligent customer for Astute, Trafalgar and Vanguard Class electrical power systems design and maintenance, and ensuring system safety and integrity
• Preparing and assessing electrical loading requirements for design changes
• Managing the DA requirements for submarine maintenance packages
• Assisting boat staff with diagnosing and repairing defects
• Ensuring compliance with technical and safety governance processes, including statutory and regulatory requirements
• Carrying out calculations to assess the impact of electrical changes on the electrical distribution systems on In Service submarines

Person specification

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

• You will hold a relevant HNC (i.e., Level 4 or higher) qualification in an Electrical Engineering, or closely related subject, OR have relevant equivalent experience
• You will have experience working within a high hazardous industry for example submarines, nuclear power, or similar
• You will have experience working with high power electrical systems

In addition to the responsibilities above, the following technical competences and behaviours will be assessed at interview:

• Technical Requirements, Evaluation and Acceptance (Supervised Practitioner)
• Technical Risk Management (Supervised Practitioner)
• Communicating and influencing – CSBC3
• Making effective decisions – CSBC3

Benefits

Alongside your salary of £37,100, Ministry of Defence contributes £10,747 towards you being a member of the Civil Service Defined Benefit Pension scheme. Find out what benefits a Civil Service Pension provides.

• 25 days’ annual leave +1 day a year up to 30 days, 8 bank holidays and a day off for the King’s birthday
• Flexible and hybrid working options
• Market-leading average employer pension contribution of 27%
• Annual performance-based bonus and recognition awards
• Access to specialist training and funded qualifications
• Support for progression
• Huge range of discounts
• Volunteering days
• Enhanced parental leave schemes

Improving innovation and enriching our culture, diversity of thought is vital to our success. So whether you’re looking for a new opportunity, a next step, or a helping hand as you return from a career break, bring your experiences and help deliver for the defence of tomorrow. Here you’ll find a supportive, family-friendly organisation to be a part of – and if you need any assistance with your application, just let us know.

Further Information

• Candidate Information Pack: https://bit.ly/SDA-Candidate-Information-Pack
• Terms and Conditions: https://bit.ly/DES-SDA-Terms-and-Conditions

Selection process details

Your application will go through the following stages of assessment:

1. Pre-sift – We will check that you meet any essential or eligibility criteria that are listed in the Person Specification section of this advert. On your CV, please clearly show how you meet the essential criteria.
2. Sift – Your CV will be assessed against the following categories, using a simple numerical scoring system: Key Achievements; Relevant Experience; Applied Knowledge and Skills. Please follow our guidance on CV writing for best chance of success.
3. Interview – If you’re invited to interview, you’ll be assessed against the Sift categories listed above, as well as the Technical Competences and Behaviours listed in the Person Specification section of this advert. When two (or more) candidates are on equal interview scores, positions will be offered based on the scores assessed at interview, in this order – 1st) Technical competence, 2nd) CV Review, 3rd) Behaviour one, 4th) Behaviour two.

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