Senior Acoustic Analyst

Join a team of specialist acoustic analysts supporting the UK's maritime deterrent capability. You will analyse and interpret acoustic signatures from submarines, surface ships and aircraft, identifying sources of noise, assessing vulnerabilities, and producing high-quality technical reports. The role also involves track reconstruction, data management, and providing evidence-based advice to support Defence decision-making.

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.

In this role you will:

• Conduct detailed acoustic analysis of target signature data and produce clear, evidence-based reports.
• Reconstruct tracks and maintain acoustic signature databases.
• Assess platform and sensor effectiveness using acoustic data from multiple sources.
• Deliver agreed work packages to challenging timescales in support of maritime operations.
• Support acoustic modelling, studies and capability development activities.
• Provide expert technical advice to stakeholders and contribute to future Defence capability improvements.

We looking for someone who has:

• Strong knowledge of sonar systems, passive sonar data analysis, acoustic signatures and underwater acoustics.
• Understanding of sonar types, sensor arrays, signal processing and sound propagation in the underwater environment.
• Ability to analyse complex acoustic data with minimal supervision.
• Proven ability to produce concise, high-quality technical reports for both technical and non-technical audiences.
• Royal Navy Senior Rate experience on frontline underwater warfare platforms (SSBN or SSN).
• Thorough understanding of acoustic signatures and their operational use.
• Demonstrable experience in advanced acoustic analysis.

Please see full job description at the bottom of this page.

Important Information

Our work in defence, security and intelligence requires our employees to be UK Nationals who are able to gain a high level of security clearance to undertake the projects we are involved in to protect us from security threats. For this reason, only UK Nationals will be able to apply for this role. If you are an international or dual-national candidate, and you think you have the skills we need, please consider applying to any of our government, security or defence partners.

This role will require full UK security clearance and you should have resided in the UK for the past 5 years. For some roles Developed Vetting will also be required, in this case you should have resided in the UK for the past 10 years.