Mathematical and Numerical Modellers

AWE
This programme has been designed to support people who have had a career break or are trying to transfer their skills in to a new sector or one they used to work in. We know that any gap in work experience or a move away from a sector or skill set makes it very hard to return or join through standard recruitment channels.
As a candidate working with STEM Returners you have access to free CV writing and Interview coaching and if you are successful in securing the role you’ll get access to coaching and mentoring programme to help you thrive in the role.
If you meet the criteria for this role but are unsure if you are eligible for the programme, we encourage you to make an application.
What if you could work with remarkable people on extraordinary things? What if the end result was something a little bit special? What if your role was mission critical?
For nearly 70 years, AWE has been at the forefront of nuclear weapons research and development. We have a critical mission: to provide the warheads for the UK’s ultimate deterrent – Trident. We also use our unique skills to provide wider UK government with counter-terrorism and nuclear threat reduction solutions.
It takes a special sort of person to work at AWE. What if that person was you?
Mathematical and Numerical Modellers – ‘Computing the Untestable’
Let us introduce the role
The Modelling Team in Materials and Analytical Science (MAS) at AWE is looking for Scientists at various stages of their careers across Materials, Mathematical and Chemical Modelling disciplines to support research and development within a wide range of technically challenging projects.
Who are we looking for?
We currently have roles available in the following disciplines and are interested in hearing from candidates with experience in one or more of the following:
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- A degree in Mathematics, Computer Science, or other numerate discipline.
- A knowledge of complex materials processes and/or experience in applying numerical modelling codes/tools to investigate these.
- Experience of working in Unix/Linux environment
- Familiarity with High Performance Computing (HPC) architectures environment
- Programming and/or scripting experience in Python/Shell/MATLAB/other
- Able to provide technical input within own field of expertise that can influence project, team or end user.
- Strong communication skills verbal and written.
- Flexible, self-motivated and the ability to handle multiple tasks.
In growing our capability across these areas, we will also be looking to grow your skills and knowledge as a Modelling Scientist with opportunities for development and progression across our programmes of work. You’ll have access to some of the best computing resources in the UK, a wide range of software, and like-minded colleagues across science and engineering.
If you think you have what it takes to Compute the Untestable and directly shape the future of our nuclear deterrent, apply now for a role to help with:
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- Finding novel modelling solutions to difficult real-world testing problems
- Delivering representative models at all life cycle phases from ‘cradle to grave’
- Co-ordinating cutting-edge projects with external academic partners
- Inspiring and developing our engineers and scientists of the future
- Ensuring we have the right people, processes and plant to deliver our current and future programmes
- Safeguarding our nation by ensuring our deterrent is credible, effective and safe, today and into the future
Everyone who works at AWE brings unique skills and perspectives to the table. We recognise that great people don’t always ‘tick every box’. That’s why we focus on your potential, your fit with our values, your transferable skills as well as your experience. Even if you don’t meet every point above, but you feel that this role and AWE are a great fit for you, please go ahead and apply, we’d love to receive your application.
You’ll need to have the ability to work calmly and constructively in a priority changing environment and be able to manage your own workload. You will also have initiative, enthusiasm, a flexible approach, and ability to work to tight deadlines.
Some reasons we think you’ll love it here:
AWE has wide range of benefits to suit you. These include:
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- 9-day working fortnight – meaning you get every other Friday off work, in addition to 270 hours of annual leave.
- Market leading contributory pension scheme (we will pay between 9% and 13% of your pensionable pay depending on your contributions).
- Family friendly policies: Maternity Leave – 39 Weeks Full Pay and Paternity Leave – 4 Weeks Full Pay.
- Opportunities for Professional Career Development including funding for annual membership of a relevant professional body.
- Employee Assistance Programme and Occupational Health Services.
- Life Assurance (4 x annual salary).
- Discounts – access to savings on a wide range of everyday spending.
- Special Leave Policy including paid time off for volunteering, public service (including reserve forces) and caring.
The ‘Working at AWE’ page on our website is where you can find full details in the ‘AWE Benefits Guide’.
Important things you need to know:
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- You will need to obtain and maintain the necessary security clearance for the role. This will be funded by AWE. The nature of our work does mean you need to be a British Citizen who has been resident in the UK for the past 5 years in order to apply for SC clearance and 10 years for DV.
- We want you to feel comfortable and able to shine during our recruitment process. Please let us know on your application form if you need any adjustments/accommodations during the process.
- Our interviews typically take place over Teams and for most roles are a 1 stage process.
Due to the classified nature of the work involved, there are limited opportunities to work from home in this role. It is anticipated that the successful candidate will spend the majority of their time working on site at AWE Aldermaston.
Please note that you must be a British National to apply for a role at AWE.
AWE plays a crucial role in the defence of the United Kingdom, by providing and maintaining the warheads for the country’s nuclear deterrent. We are a centre of scientific, engineering and technological excellence, with some of the most advanced research, design and production facilities in the world. Our unique expertise also assists the UK Government in developing and delivering a range of innovative and integrated support services, including national nuclear security and counter-terrorism solutions.
AWE is an equal opportunities employer. We value diversity and welcome applications from candidates from all backgrounds. We particularly welcome applications from sections of the community which are currently under-represented at AWE, including women, BAME and people with disabilities.
Working pattern: AWE operates a 9-day working fortnight. We will consider flexible working requests so that your work may fit in with your lifestyle. Just let us know your preferred working pattern on your application.
Location:
RG7 4PR, located between Reading and Basingstoke, with free onsite parking.