Defence Nuclear Organisation Ordnance, Munitions

Job summary

Do you want to be at the heart of real Defence issues and play a key role in the United Kingdom�s (UK) national security? Then this Ordnance, Munitions & Explosives (Level 6) Degree Apprenticeship programme could be the opportunity you are looking for�

Established in April 2016, the Defence Nuclear Organisation (DNO) delivers nuclear capability to deter threats and protect our nation.��

The DNO oversees all defence nuclear business (excluding operations) and is responsible for providing nuclear deterrence; sponsoring the Defence Nuclear Enterprise (all the organisations, programmes and people that sustain the UK�s nuclear deterrent); and advising on UK nuclear policy, planning and international co-operation on nuclear matters.��

The UK�s independent nuclear deterrent has existed for over 60 years to deter the most extreme threats to our national security and way of life, and that of our NATO Allies. To ensurethat we havea credible and capable nuclear deterrent for as long as the security situation requires, we are building four new nuclear armed submarines � known as the Dreadnought Class � and replacing our nuclear warheads. These renewal programmes will utilise world-leading technology and are a showcase in science and engineering, highlighting the prowess of British industry.�

Here at DNO we strongly believe that diversity and inclusion is not only the right thing to do but is also essential for a thriving and successful organisation. We know that diverse teams bring a wide range of perspectives, experiences and ideas, which lead to better decision-making, creativity and innovation. We have a culture where differences are celebrated and our people feel supported, included and empowered. Join us and be part of an organisation that truly values diversity and inclusion and makes a positive impact on the world.�

Job description

You will require an eagerness to learn, an inquisitive mind with a logical approach to problem solving, be self-motivated and have the ability to learn from practical and theoretical studies. The programme requires dedication from you to complete the 5-year apprenticeship scheme and acquire a level 6 degree qualification. If this sounds like you, then we want to hear from you�

The Defence Nuclear Enterprise (DNE) is made up of several government and industry organisations, these form part of the Ministry of Defence that sustains the UK�s nuclear deterrent. This includes the organisations, programmes, and people within government and industry that help deliver the UK�s nuclear capability.�

The course�

The Ordnance, Munitions and Explosives (OME) Level 6 Professional Degree (BEng) Apprenticeship which focuses on the Safety pathway within the Engineering function. The course is run by The University of Wales Trinity Saint David. Off the job learning will occur on a block release basis. This means that you�ll reside at the University of Wales Trinity Saint David, in Swansea approximately three and a half months each year. Typically, these learning blocks are 5 to 10 workings days split over the course of each academic year. The first block, starting in January 2025 will be much longer and dates will be confirmed at on boarding stage. For more information, please see attached candidate pack. The university course link can be found below:
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�You can find more information in the attached candidate pack.�

This programme is recognised and accredited by the Institute of Explosives Engineers (IExpE). You will be registered as student members of the IExpE during your apprenticeship and on completion you will gain professional registration with IExpE.�

Person specification

As an Ordnance Munitions and Explosives (OME) Safety Case apprentice, your role will be split between course work in support of your BEng Degree qualification, which is funded by the MOD, and on the job training as part of your professional development. Working with experienced professionals from a high hazard engineering environment will enable you to develop the technical skills and behaviours required for your career. As you develop, we will give you the opportunity to work on, and build the following skills:�

Support projects being taken forward by our team of safety professionals, this will be during work-based placements across the UK�Write and analyse technical documents�Attend a range of sites and relevant conferences and events�Learn about and evidence the knowledge skills and behaviours required for the safety pathway�

Person specification:�

You will need to be willing to work hard on a L6 degree programme, attend university in Swansea�and pass coursework and exams.�You will need to be able to learn to write technical documents, focusing on finer details which are required within safety �You will be willing to travel and stay overnight for both university and placements across the UKYou will be confident in networking and speaking to new people�You will be willing to learn to present and lead In front of groups of people�You will be willing to spend time on university work outside of university blocks�

Post location�

Posts will be available in MOD Abbey Wood, Bristol which will be your permanent duty station during the scheme. There will also be an opportunity for work-based training placements in various MOD, military and industry establishments across the UK that focus on nuclear safety. Some placements require full time attendance onsite/in office, other placements may have hybrid working.�
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We cover the costs of accommodation, travel, and subsistence for detached duty, which is when you are away from your permanent duty station. It�s not a problem if you don�t drive as most establishments can access public transport.��

Supported learning�

We, as the Early Careers team, will support you throughout your time with us. You�ll be assigned a mentor that will help you to improve your knowledge and understanding of the wider DNE and MOD business. You will also be supported throughout your programme by an Apprentice Liaison Officer, a specialist within the sector, who will visit the workplace regularly, providing the link between the academic studies and workplace learning, and addressing any issues that may arise during the programme.�

Travel�

You will be expected travel regularly across the UK throughout the 5-year scheme for completion of academic studies, work placements, familiarisation visits and apprenticeship events with accommodation, travel and subsistence, away from your duty station, being met by the MOD in line with the relevant policy and guidance.�

Salary�

Current starting salary is �24,985 at AO level.�

At the 3 year point on-scheme there is a regrading process. As part of the regrading process, we will assess your suitability to continue with the final phase of the apprenticeship scheme and suitability to regrade to Grade D/EO.

Contracted Hours�

Your contracted hours will be 37 hours per week, although some additional study will be required in your own time to complete the academic part of the apprenticeship.� You will be supported with continuing professional development to maintain your skills and professional accreditations.��

You must have the right of abode in the UK and have been ordinarily resident in the EEA (including other countries determined within the EEA or those with bilateral agreements), for at least the previous three years on the first day of learning.�

Please note this is a development scheme and candidates with higher level qualifications in Engineering may not be eligible. All vocational and academic qualifications held or in progress must be declared.�

Qualifications

You must have a minimum of the following to be eligible for the apprenticeship:

5 GCSE�s (Five National 5 qualifications) Grade 4 (Grade C) or above
Mandatory subjects: Maths, English Language
Desirable subjects: Any Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths (STEM) or technology-based subject

And

2 A Levels (Two Scottish Highers) Grade C or above

Desirable subjects: Any STEM or technology-based subject

You will be required to provide evidence of your certificates at on boarding stage.

Please see the guide for acceptable equivalents � What qualification levels mean: England, Wales and Northern Ireland - ( and ( for Scotland.
Evidence of the above qualifications will be required as part of your pre-employment checks before a formal offer can be made.

If successful you will be asked to provide evidence that you meet the stated qualification criteria

Behaviours

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

Developing Self and OthersWorking TogetherCommunicating and Influencing

Benefits

Alongside your salary of �24,985, Ministry of Defence contributes �6,745 towards you being a member of the Civil Service Defined Benefit Pension scheme.

We truly believe that the MOD is a great place to work, and we offer a unique employee experience. We want to ensure that every single employee feels appreciated & fairly rewarded and offer the following additional benefits:�

Learning and development tailored to your role and broader skill development, enabling you to build a long-term career in your chosen area. Where appropriate there will be offers of training under our apprenticeship schemes.�An environment with flexible working options�A culture encouraging inclusion and diversity�A with an average employer contribution of 27%�25 days annual leave rising to 30 days upon completion of 5 years� service�On-site Gym�Cycle Loan (Advance on Salary)�Thank You Scheme�Defence Sports & Recreational Association (DSRA)�Defence Discount Service�On-site Nursery�

Discover My Benefits�
Please follow the link to visit the Discover My Benefits site which showcases the benefits and discounts offered when working as a civilian for the MOD.�
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The Ministry of Defence is committed to providing a safe and healthy working environment for its staff which includes educating them on the benefits of not smoking, protecting them from the harmful effects of second-hand smoke and supporting those who want to give up smoking. Under the Smoke-Free Working Environment policy, Smoking and the use ofall tobacco products (including combustible and chewing tobacco products) will not be permitted anywhere in the Defence workingenvironment. The policy is WholeForce andincludes all Defence personnel, contractors, visitors and other non-MOD applicants seeking, considering, or accepting employment with the Ministry of Defence should be aware of this policy and that it is already in place at a number of Defence Establishments.�

Hybrid Working�

Where business needs allow, some roles may be suitable for a combination of office and home-based working. This is a non-contractual arrangement where all office-based employees will be expected to spend a minimum of 60% of their working time in office, subject to capacity and any required workplace adjustments. Requirements to attend other locations for official business, or work in another MOD office, will also count towards this level of attendance. Applicants can request further information regarding how this may work in their team from the Vacancy Holder (see advert for contact details). Defence Business Services cannot respond to any questions about working arrangements.�

Please note: Expenses incurred for travel to interviews will not be reimbursed.�

The post does not offer relocation expenses (move of home, excess fares or temporary transfer). Non-Standard move applicants will be eligible for the full package, subject to eligibility.�

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