Security Services Group (SSG) - Senior Systems Architect
UK Ministry of Defence
Date: 6 hours ago
City: Deeside, Wales
Contract type: Part time
MOD Sealand, Deeside, Flintshire CH5 2LS
Job Summary
The Security Services Group (SSG) is a specialist business unit delivering high-assurance security solutions across the MOD and wider Government Estate. With over 260 highly skilled experts based in the UK, Germany, Cyprus, and Gibraltar, SSG designs, installs, and maintains advanced security systems to protect Defence operations, national security assets, and critical government infrastructure. As the MOD’s strategic technical authority, we provide cutting-edge security solutions, from intruder detection and video surveillance to access control and physical security. To learn more about SSG, visit Security Services Group - GOV.UK
This position is advertised at 37 hours per week.
Job Description
We are seeking an experienced and skilled Systems Architect to join SSG’s Development section. The ideal candidate will demonstrate a comprehensive knowledge and experience of working with security technologies, be self-motivated, and possess a proactive problem-solving approach to technical issues. This role is based out of MOD Sealand, working within an established team of development specialists. The successful candidate will report directly to SSG’s production, development and support (PDS) team leader. As Senior Systems Architect, your main role will be the development of SSG’s next generation of IDS capabilities and support to existing platforms. Specialist AC12M (SSG Alarm System) product training will be provided to external candidates as required.
Key Responsibilities Include:
Key Responsibilities Include:
Essential Skills, Experience, Qualifications, Memberships & Licences
Full UK Driving Licence
Behaviours
We'll assess you against these behaviours during the selection process:
We'll assess you against these technical skills during the selection process:
The post does not offer relocation expenses.
External recruits who join the MOD who are new to the Civil Service will be subject to a six-month probation period.
Please Note: Expenses incurred for travel to interviews will not be reimbursed.
Please be advised that the Department is conducting a review of all pay related allowances which could impact on those allowances that the post currently being advertised attracts.
Any move to MOD from another employer will mean you can no longer access childcare vouchers. This includes moves between government departments. You may however be eligible for other government schemes, including Tax-Free Childcare. Determine your eligibility at https://www.childcarechoices.gov.uk/.
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 of all tobacco products (including combustible and chewing tobacco products) will not be permitted anywhere in the Defence working environment however some exemptions are in place, please refer to local guidance. The policy is Whole Force and includes all Defence personnel, contractors, visitors and other non-MOD personnel. All 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.
MOD Recruitment Satisfaction Survey – We may contact you regarding your experience to help us improve our customer satisfaction. The survey is voluntary and anonymous. You may however be given the opportunity to provide additional information to help us improve our service which includes the collection of some personal data as defined by the United Kingdom General Data Protection Regulation (UK GDPR). The MOD Privacy Policy Notice sets out how we will use your personal data and your rights.
Selection process details
This vacancy is using Success Profiles (opens in a new window), and will assess your Behaviours, Experience and Technical skills.
We use the Civil Service Success Profiles framework to ensure a fair and comprehensive assessment of candidates. Your suitability for the role will be evaluated based on your experience, skills and demonstration of core behaviours throughout the process.
Candidates will be required to provide CV details to include job history; qualification details and previous skills and experience.
Candidates will be required to provide a statement of suitability in no more than 500 words.
At sift, you will be assessed against your CV, statement of suitability and the following Success Profiles:
Behaviours
Technical Skills
Behaviours
The Ministry of Defence adopts a zero-tolerance approach to unacceptable behaviours, which includes bullying, harassment, sexual harassment, discrimination, and victimisation. You will not be eligible and will not be considered for this post if you have been dismissed from a role for such unacceptable behaviours within the last five years. This will also apply if you resign or otherwise leave a role but, because of an adverse decision, would have been dismissed for gross misconduct had you continued in that employment. Pre-employment checks will be carried out.
The Civil Service embraces diversity and promotes equality of opportunity. There is a Disability Confident Scheme (DCS) for candidates with disabilities who meet the minimum selection criteria. If you need to advise us that you need additional help or reasonable adjustments for the recruitment process, please contact: [email protected].
As a result of the changes to the UK immigration rules which came in to effect on 1 January 2021, the Ministry of Defence will only offer sponsorship for a skilled worker visa under the points based system, where a role has been deemed to be business critical. This role does not meet that category and we will not sponsor a visa. It is therefore NOT open to applications from those who will require sponsorship under the points based system.
Should you apply for this role and be found to require sponsorship, your application will be rejected and any provisional offer of employment withdrawn.
Feedback will only be provided if you attend an interview or assessment.
This vacancy is using Success Profiles (opens in a new window), and will assess your Behaviours, Experience and Technical skills.
Security
Successful candidates must undergo a criminal record check.
Successful candidates must meet the security requirements before they can be appointed. The level of security needed is developed vetting (opens in a new window).See our vetting charter (opens in a new window).
People working with government assets must complete baseline personnel security standard (opens in new window) checks.
Successful candidates must undergo a criminal record check.
Successful candidates must meet the security requirements before they can be appointed. The level of security needed is developed vetting (opens in a new window).See our vetting charter (opens in a new window).
People working with government assets must complete baseline personnel security standard (opens in new window) checks.
Nationality requirements
This Job Is Broadly Open To The Following Groups:
Working for the Civil Service
The Civil Service Code (opens in a new window) 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 (opens in a new window).
The Civil Service embraces diversity and promotes equal opportunities. As such, we run a Disability Confident Scheme (DCS) for candidates with disabilities who meet the minimum selection criteria.
The Civil Service also offers a Redeployment Interview Scheme to civil servants who are at risk of redundancy, and who meet the minimum requirements for the advertised vacancy.
The Civil Service Code (opens in a new window) 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 (opens in a new window).
The Civil Service embraces diversity and promotes equal opportunities. As such, we run a Disability Confident Scheme (DCS) for candidates with disabilities who meet the minimum selection criteria.
The Civil Service also offers a Redeployment Interview Scheme to civil servants who are at risk of redundancy, and who meet the minimum requirements for the advertised vacancy.
Diversity and Inclusion
The Civil Service is committed to attract, retain and invest in talent wherever it is found. To learn more please see the Civil Service People Plan (opens in a new window) and the Civil Service Diversity and Inclusion Strategy (opens in a new window).
This vacancy is part of the Great Place to Work for Veterans (opens in a new window) initiative.
Once this job has closed, the job advert will no longer be available. You may want to save a copy for your records.
Contact point for applicants
Job Contact :
Please ensure you read the attached candidate information document prior to completing your application. If you are dissatisfied with the service you have received from DBS, or believe that DBS has failed to follow the recruitment process in line with the Civil Service Commission principles of selection for appointment on merit on the basis of Fair and Open competition, you can raise a formal complaint by writing to DBS at the following address: Defence Business Services, Scanning Hub, Room 6124, Tomlinson House, Norcross Lane, Blackpool, FY5 3WP. If after raising your complaint with DBS you remain dissatisfied you can complain directly to the Civil Service Commission at the following address: Civil Service commission, Room G/8, 1 Horse Guards Road, London, SW1A 2HQ Or by email: [email protected].
Job Summary
The Security Services Group (SSG) is a specialist business unit delivering high-assurance security solutions across the MOD and wider Government Estate. With over 260 highly skilled experts based in the UK, Germany, Cyprus, and Gibraltar, SSG designs, installs, and maintains advanced security systems to protect Defence operations, national security assets, and critical government infrastructure. As the MOD’s strategic technical authority, we provide cutting-edge security solutions, from intruder detection and video surveillance to access control and physical security. To learn more about SSG, visit Security Services Group - GOV.UK
This position is advertised at 37 hours per week.
Job Description
We are seeking an experienced and skilled Systems Architect to join SSG’s Development section. The ideal candidate will demonstrate a comprehensive knowledge and experience of working with security technologies, be self-motivated, and possess a proactive problem-solving approach to technical issues. This role is based out of MOD Sealand, working within an established team of development specialists. The successful candidate will report directly to SSG’s production, development and support (PDS) team leader. As Senior Systems Architect, your main role will be the development of SSG’s next generation of IDS capabilities and support to existing platforms. Specialist AC12M (SSG Alarm System) product training will be provided to external candidates as required.
Key Responsibilities Include:
- Provide Intrusion Dectection System (IDS) subject matter expertise to drive development projects and shape system architecture.
- Work in line with the development’s teams’ vision, actively seeking continuous improvement and collaborate with section to achieve project goals.
- Ensure you remain up to date with current industry standards and select approved technologies for development projects.
- Be responsible for the quality of your output and work in accordance with procedures, policies and responsibilities common across the engineering industry.
- Collaborate with the Production, Development and Support (PDS) Team Leader on specialist technical projects as required.
- Coach and mentor apprentice colleagues.
- There may be opportunities for overtime, detached duty visits (overnight stays) and travelling time to attend other SSG, MOD and Other Government Departments (OGDs) sites as necessary depending on business needs.
- Opportunities to Participate in 24/7 On-Cal Rota
Key Responsibilities Include:
- Provide Intrusion Dectection System (IDS) subject matter expertise to drive development projects and shape system architecture.
- Work in line with the development’s teams’ vision, actively seeking continuous improvement and collaborate with section to achieve project goals.
- Ensure you remain up to date with current industry standards and select approved technologies for development projects.
- Be responsible for the quality of your output and work in accordance with procedures, policies and responsibilities common across the engineering industry.
- Collaborate with the Production, Development and Support (PDS) Team Leader on specialist technical projects as required.
- Coach and mentor apprentice colleagues.
- There may be opportunities for overtime, detached duty visits (overnight stays) and travelling time to attend other SSG, MOD and Other Government Departments (OGDs) sites as necessary depending on business needs.
- Opportunities to Participate in 24/7 On-Cal Rota
Essential Skills, Experience, Qualifications, Memberships & Licences
- Experience working in a development role.
- Full UK Driving License.
- Proficient using Microsoft Office software products.
- Can demonstrate working experience manufacturing, installing, maintaining or technically supporting IDS systems.
- Awareness of VSS, AACS, PIDS and SMS security systems.
- Competency with technical drawing packages.
- Working knowledge of British, European and UK Government Standards relating to Security together with knowledge of Quality & Assurance (QA) and Health & Safety (H&S) policies.
- Membership of Engineering Council or Security Institute.
- Knowledge of IPC610 standards.
Full UK Driving Licence
Behaviours
We'll assess you against these behaviours during the selection process:
- Leadership
- Making Effective Decisions
- Working Together
- Seeing the Big Picture
- Leadership
We'll assess you against these technical skills during the selection process:
- Electronic Security Installation - Practitioner
- Generous Annual Leave: 25 days annual leave increasing by one day per year to a maximum of 30 days after five years of service.
- Career Development: Benefit from continuous professional development opportunities within the security field, helping you grow and advance your career.
- Equipment: Toolkit, laptop and mobile phone.
- Company Vehicle: You may be provided with a non-liveried company vehicle, eligible for personal use (taxable as a benefit).
- Family Support: Access enhanced parental leave policies to support work-life balance during important life events.
- Exclusive Discounts: Enjoy savings through the Defence Discount Service (fees apply), offerings deals on a range of products and services.
- Health and Wellbeing: Receive Specsavers eye test vouchers and access on-site gym facilities (where available).
- Community and Social Perks: Join the Civil Service Sports Club (CSSC) or the Civil Service Club in London, providing access to a variety of social, cultural, and recreational activities (membership fees apply).
- On-Site Amenities: Many of our locations offer free parking, subsidised canteens, sports and social clubs, and on-site shops for your convenience.
- Inclusive Workplace: Join one of our Diversity and Inclusion Networks. We value diversity and are committed to creating an equal and supportive environment for all.
The post does not offer relocation expenses.
External recruits who join the MOD who are new to the Civil Service will be subject to a six-month probation period.
Please Note: Expenses incurred for travel to interviews will not be reimbursed.
Please be advised that the Department is conducting a review of all pay related allowances which could impact on those allowances that the post currently being advertised attracts.
Any move to MOD from another employer will mean you can no longer access childcare vouchers. This includes moves between government departments. You may however be eligible for other government schemes, including Tax-Free Childcare. Determine your eligibility at https://www.childcarechoices.gov.uk/.
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 of all tobacco products (including combustible and chewing tobacco products) will not be permitted anywhere in the Defence working environment however some exemptions are in place, please refer to local guidance. The policy is Whole Force and includes all Defence personnel, contractors, visitors and other non-MOD personnel. All 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.
MOD Recruitment Satisfaction Survey – We may contact you regarding your experience to help us improve our customer satisfaction. The survey is voluntary and anonymous. You may however be given the opportunity to provide additional information to help us improve our service which includes the collection of some personal data as defined by the United Kingdom General Data Protection Regulation (UK GDPR). The MOD Privacy Policy Notice sets out how we will use your personal data and your rights.
Selection process details
This vacancy is using Success Profiles (opens in a new window), and will assess your Behaviours, Experience and Technical skills.
We use the Civil Service Success Profiles framework to ensure a fair and comprehensive assessment of candidates. Your suitability for the role will be evaluated based on your experience, skills and demonstration of core behaviours throughout the process.
Candidates will be required to provide CV details to include job history; qualification details and previous skills and experience.
Candidates will be required to provide a statement of suitability in no more than 500 words.
At sift, you will be assessed against your CV, statement of suitability and the following Success Profiles:
Behaviours
- Leadership
Technical Skills
- Electronic Security Installation – Practitioner
Behaviours
- Making Effective Decisions
- Working Together
- Seeing the Big Picture
- Electronic Security Installation – Practitioner
- Discuss your background and its relevance to the role.
- The interview will explore both your professional experience and how your behaviours align with the role's requirements, we recommend using the STAR format when answering behaviour questions.
- Interviews are planned to take place via Microsoft Teams.
The Ministry of Defence adopts a zero-tolerance approach to unacceptable behaviours, which includes bullying, harassment, sexual harassment, discrimination, and victimisation. You will not be eligible and will not be considered for this post if you have been dismissed from a role for such unacceptable behaviours within the last five years. This will also apply if you resign or otherwise leave a role but, because of an adverse decision, would have been dismissed for gross misconduct had you continued in that employment. Pre-employment checks will be carried out.
The Civil Service embraces diversity and promotes equality of opportunity. There is a Disability Confident Scheme (DCS) for candidates with disabilities who meet the minimum selection criteria. If you need to advise us that you need additional help or reasonable adjustments for the recruitment process, please contact: [email protected].
As a result of the changes to the UK immigration rules which came in to effect on 1 January 2021, the Ministry of Defence will only offer sponsorship for a skilled worker visa under the points based system, where a role has been deemed to be business critical. This role does not meet that category and we will not sponsor a visa. It is therefore NOT open to applications from those who will require sponsorship under the points based system.
Should you apply for this role and be found to require sponsorship, your application will be rejected and any provisional offer of employment withdrawn.
Feedback will only be provided if you attend an interview or assessment.
This vacancy is using Success Profiles (opens in a new window), and will assess your Behaviours, Experience and Technical skills.
Security
Successful candidates must undergo a criminal record check.
Successful candidates must meet the security requirements before they can be appointed. The level of security needed is developed vetting (opens in a new window).See our vetting charter (opens in a new window).
People working with government assets must complete baseline personnel security standard (opens in new window) checks.
Successful candidates must undergo a criminal record check.
Successful candidates must meet the security requirements before they can be appointed. The level of security needed is developed vetting (opens in a new window).See our vetting charter (opens in a new window).
People working with government assets must complete baseline personnel security standard (opens in new window) checks.
Nationality requirements
This Job Is Broadly Open To The Following Groups:
- UK nationals
- nationals of the Republic of Ireland
- nationals of Commonwealth countries who have the right to work in the UK
- nationals of the EU, Switzerland, Norway, Iceland or Liechtenstein and family members of those nationalities with settled or pre-settled status under the European Union Settlement Scheme (EUSS) (opens in a new window)
- nationals of the EU, Switzerland, Norway, Iceland or Liechtenstein and family members of those nationalities who have made a valid application for settled or pre-settled status under the European Union Settlement Scheme (EUSS)
- individuals with limited leave to remain or indefinite leave to remain who were eligible to apply for EUSS on or before 31 December 2020
- Turkish nationals, and certain family members of Turkish nationals, who have accrued the right to work in the Civil Service
Working for the Civil Service
The Civil Service Code (opens in a new window) 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 (opens in a new window).
The Civil Service embraces diversity and promotes equal opportunities. As such, we run a Disability Confident Scheme (DCS) for candidates with disabilities who meet the minimum selection criteria.
The Civil Service also offers a Redeployment Interview Scheme to civil servants who are at risk of redundancy, and who meet the minimum requirements for the advertised vacancy.
The Civil Service Code (opens in a new window) 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 (opens in a new window).
The Civil Service embraces diversity and promotes equal opportunities. As such, we run a Disability Confident Scheme (DCS) for candidates with disabilities who meet the minimum selection criteria.
The Civil Service also offers a Redeployment Interview Scheme to civil servants who are at risk of redundancy, and who meet the minimum requirements for the advertised vacancy.
Diversity and Inclusion
The Civil Service is committed to attract, retain and invest in talent wherever it is found. To learn more please see the Civil Service People Plan (opens in a new window) and the Civil Service Diversity and Inclusion Strategy (opens in a new window).
This vacancy is part of the Great Place to Work for Veterans (opens in a new window) initiative.
Once this job has closed, the job advert will no longer be available. You may want to save a copy for your records.
Contact point for applicants
Job Contact :
- Name : Jonathan Langley, PDS Team Leader
- Email : [email protected]
- Email : [email protected]
Please ensure you read the attached candidate information document prior to completing your application. If you are dissatisfied with the service you have received from DBS, or believe that DBS has failed to follow the recruitment process in line with the Civil Service Commission principles of selection for appointment on merit on the basis of Fair and Open competition, you can raise a formal complaint by writing to DBS at the following address: Defence Business Services, Scanning Hub, Room 6124, Tomlinson House, Norcross Lane, Blackpool, FY5 3WP. If after raising your complaint with DBS you remain dissatisfied you can complain directly to the Civil Service Commission at the following address: Civil Service commission, Room G/8, 1 Horse Guards Road, London, SW1A 2HQ Or by email: [email protected].
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