Dstl has recruited graduates since its inception in 2001 and over the years has developed their graduate programme; most areas run a formal two-year programme whilst some recruit graduates directly into jobs. Whichever area you join, training and development is encouraged and gaining Chartership or further academic qualifications is supported. Currently, Dstl recruits approximately 80 graduates a year from a range of science, technology engineering and mathematical backgrounds.
What the Dstl graduate scheme entails
Graduates are recruited at Dstl to work as analysts, engineers or scientists.
“Each graduate’s journey is unique to them and the area they are recruited into,” says the Talent Acquisition and Planning Adviser (TAPA) at Dstl. “Our graduates immediately join one of our Divisions where they quickly take responsibility for pieces of work with the support of their teams.
“In addition to the core training, we offer an understanding of the organisation and the military and academia, and also offer our graduates opportunities to develop their personal skills and technical skills in their chosen field. This can be anything from attending conferences, in the UK or overseas, or shadowing a technical expert through to a part-time master’s qualification.”
Benefits of the Dstl graduate programme
Dstl graduate salaries start from £25,000 and employees receive four performance reviews each year, allowing you to achieve pay increases if you have worked well. You start with 25 days holiday a year, which goes up to 30 days after five years service.
Other benefits include:
- Flexible working
- Maternity, adoption or shared parental leave of up to 26 weeks full pay followed by 13 weeks statutory pay and a further 13 weeks unpaid, and paternity leave of 2 weeks full pay
- Chartership and accreditation support
- Pension
- Excellent learning and development
- Onsite gyms and restaurants
- Staff discounts for high street and online shopping, restaurants and days out.
What Dstl looks for in potential graduates
We are looking for someone who wants to:
- use their STEM degree to make a real difference/impact to the defence and security of the UK
- solve problems and develop analytical and research solutions
- work with the best minds whether they are in Government, industry or academia
- learn new skills and techniques and to continue their own professional development.
“With help and guidance, we expect our graduates to take responsibility for their career from day one and people with a real passion for science can really shine through.
“Much of our work has a major impact on our Armed Forces and the security of the nation, and our people are incredibly passionate about the roles they perform. We want graduates who are truly passionate, capable and committed to our cause,” says the TAPA.
Dstl graduate programme roles are advertised from October. Find out more about working for Dstl.
