
STARK · Swindon
ABOUT US STARK is a new kind of defence technology company revolutionizing the way autonomous systems are deployed across multiple domains. We design, develop,...
STARK is a new kind of defence technology company revolutionizing the way autonomous systems are deployed across multiple domains.
We design, develop, and manufacture high-performance unmanned systems that are software-defined, mass-scalable, and
cost-effective. This provides our operators with a decisive edge in highly contested environments.
We’re focused on delivering deployable, high-performance systems—not future promises. In a time of rising threats, STARK is
bolstering the technological edge of NATO Allies and their Partners to deter aggression and defend Europe—today.
Minerva is STARK's command and control software — the brain that connects operators to autonomous systems across multiple domains
in real time. The Minerva team is a small, senior software group based in Berlin and Munich, working directly with our systems and
hardware teams to build mission-critical C2 capabilities deployed in active operational environments.
We move fast, ship real software, and operate under constraints most engineers never encounter — low-bandwidth networks,
air-gapped devices, and high-stakes decision loops. There is no room for abstraction for its own sake. Everything we build ends up
in the hands of real operators in the field.
To drive mission success by ensuring our R&D teams can stay focused on innovation, we are seeking a Technical Project Manager with
a focus on Maritime Autonomy. Reporting to the Head of Technical Project Management, you will be the tactical engine room for our
marine programs.
Your initial priority will be managing our maritime autonomy initiatives to ensure we build, test, and certify our unmanned
surface vessel (USV) capabilities on time and on budget. Specifically, you will take absolute ownership for the delivery of
certification, regulatory compliance cycle, and maritime safety standards for autonomous marine systems.
across software developers, embedded hardware teams, control systems, and Sea trials engineers across the UK & Germany.
coordinating with our Compliance Manager to align delivery with classification and national maritime regulatory bodies.
on prototype vessels.
and risk-mitigation strategies to deliver features on target.
into project velocity, roadblocks, and delivery status.
environments.
26262, IEC 61508, DO-178C, or maritime classification society rules) following the V&V delivery model.
summaries.
STARK Defence UK has achieved the ERS - The Defence Employer Recognition Bronze award 2026
Sally Grütte-Pad, Interim Lead TA Partner, via talent@stark-defence.com
ABOUT US STARK is a defense technology company revolutionising the way autonomous systems are deployed across multiple domains. We design, develop and manufacture high performance unmanned vehicles that are software-defined, mass-scalable, and cost effective – giving NATO and its allies a decisive edge in the most contested environments. We’re focused on delivering deployable, high-performance systems—not future promises. In a time of rising threats, STARK is bolstering the technological edge of NATO Allies and their Partners to deter aggression and defend Europe—today. YOUR MISSION We are seeking a talented Autonomous System Engineer who will develop the algorithms and software stacks that enable our UAVs to perceive their environment, navigate complex spaces, and execute missions autonomously. You will bridge the gap between high-level mission planning and low-level flight control RESPONSIBILITIES * Define system-level requirements, perform trade studies, and manage the technical budget * Perform requirements decomposition from mission-level goals to technical specs; manage technical budgets and validation criteria. * Design and implement algorithms for, path planning, obstacle avoidance, SLAM and tracking. * Integrate and filter data from multiple sources (LiDAR, IMU, GPS, and MIPI cameras) to create a unified state estimate. * Lead field testing of autonomous behaviours and analyse flight logs to tune performance. * Develop finite state machines or behaviour trees for complex mission sequencing. * Writing/preparing documentation for algorithms, testing and systems QUALIFICATIONS * Bachelor´s or Master´s degree in Robotics, computer science, software engineering, or similar relevant areas of expertise * Deep understanding of flight dynamics, aerodynamics, and coordinate systems (NED/ECEF/Body frames). * Proven experience in feedback control, stability analysis, and loop tuning. * Strong experience configuring and customizing PX4 or ArduPilot flight stacks. * Proficiency in using MAVLink/MAVSDK for vehicle communication and mission control. * Hands-on experience with GPS-aided navigation and IMU filtering techniques. * Experience using ROS2 for high-level mission planning or "offboard" control. * Proficiency for algorithm prototyping, scripting, and flight log analysis. * Must be eligible for UK Security Clearance NICE TO HAVE Nice to Have * Experience with the NVIDIA Jetson platforms. * Experience in developing and testing algorithms in C++. * Experience with Model-Based Design and automated code generation. * Proficiency in Gazebo, jMAVSim, or AirSim for "Software-in-the-Loop" (SITL) testing. * Experience with Optical Flow, Visual Inertial Odometry (VIO), or LiDAR-based SLAM. Our Commitment to the Armed Forces Community We are proud to hold the Bronze Award from the Defence Employer Recognition Scheme (ERS), reflecting our meaningful commitment and ongoing support for UK defence personnel. At our core, we believe in championing those who serve, those who have served, and their families. As part of this scheme, we are dedicated to providing an inclusive, supportive environment where members of the Armed Forces community can thrive and bring their invaluable skills to our team.
ABOUT US STARK is a new kind of defence technology company revolutionizing the way autonomous systems are deployed across multiple domains. We design, develop and manufacture high performance unmanned systems that are software-defined, mass-scalable, and cost effective. This provides our operators with a decisive edge in highly contested environments. We’re focused on delivering deployable, high-performance systems - not future promises. In a time of rising threats, STARK is bolstering the technological edge of NATO Allies and their Partners to deter aggression and defend Europe - today. YOUR MISSION As our Senior Mechanical Design Engineer, you will own the mechanical architecture of STARK’s next-generation UAV platforms from concept to high-rate production. You will set technical direction, mentor engineers, and work closely with cross-functional teams to deliver highly reliable, certifiable, and field-deployable systems under aggressive timelines. You will both define mechanical design strategy and dive deep into CAD, tolerance stacks, and Design for Manufacture/Assembly (DFMA) prototypes. You will act as the company’s authority on mechanical design for airframes and payload integration, influencing platform-level decisions and ensuring designs are robust, scalable, cost-effective for mass production, and certifiable. RESPONSIBILITIES * Lead mechanical design for UK current and future UAV platforms * Define and enforce best practices for parametric modeling, GD&T, and tolerance stack-ups * Drive airframe material selection, structural layout, and manufacturability decisions * Oversee supplier engagement for structural components, composites, and assemblies Collaborate with stress, flight test, and systems teams to ensure structural integrity * Support and occasionally lead design reviews with leadership, partners, and certifying authorities * Lead mechanical design for UK current and future UAV platforms, focusing on design-for-manufacture (DFM) and high-rate production methods * Define and enforce best practices for parametric modeling, GD&T, and tolerance stack-ups, with an emphasis on production efficiency * Collaborate with stress, flight test, and systems teams to ensure structural integrity while optimising designs for mass production * Support and occasionally lead design reviews with leadership, partners, and certifying authorities, presenting trade-offs for production scale * Be hands-on with CAD (SolidWorks/CATIA), prototyping, and shop-floor troubleshooting, with a focus on process and design optimization for rate increase QUALIFICATIONS * Mechanical design experience, in ideally in aerospace / UAV / autonomous systems * Proven record of taking structures from concept through verification to high rate production (wing, fuselage, empennage) * Expert in SolidWorks (CATIA V5/V6 a plus) and tolerance stack analysis * Strong knowledge of composites, 3D printing, machining, injection moulding, and joining methods * Familiarity with MIL standards and EASA/FAA certification pathways (SC-Light UAS, CS-23) * Excellent communication skills - able to influence at exec and program level * Eligible for UK Security Clearance Our Commitment to the Armed Forces Community We are proud to hold the Bronze Award from the Defence Employer Recognition Scheme (ERS), reflecting our meaningful commitment and ongoing support for UK defence personnel. At our core, we believe in championing those who serve, those who have served, and their families. As part of this scheme, we are dedicated to providing an inclusive, supportive environment where members of the Armed Forces community can thrive and bring their invaluable skills to our team.
ABOUT US STARK is a defense technology company revolutionizing the way autonomous systems are deployed across multiple domains. We design, develop and manufacture high performance unmanned vehicles that are software-defined, mass-scalable, and cost effective – giving NATO and its allies a decisive edge in the most contested environments. We’re focused on delivering deployable, high-performance systems - not future promises. In a time of rising threats, STARK is bolstering the technological edge of NATO Allies and their Partners to deter aggression and defend Europe - today. YOUR MISSION As an RPAS Operator you will become a key member of a dynamic, collaborative team at the forefront of remotely piloted aviation systems. We're looking for individuals with proven experience in all aspects of operating RPAS within the Specific Category, demonstrating precision, reliability, and a deep understanding of system capabilities. If you thrive in a high-performance environment where teamwork drives success and innovation, this is your opportunity to make an impact. RESPONSIBILITIES * Mission Planning: Assessing flight routes, weather conditions, and airspace restrictions to ensure safe and efficient operations. * Flight Operations: Conducting pre-flight checks, controlling the RPAS during missions, and monitoring system health throughout. * Data Collection & Analysis: Capturing imagery or sensor data, then processing and interpreting the results to meet mission goals. * Maintenance & Troubleshooting: Performing routine inspections and resolving technical issues to keep systems mission-ready. * Compliance & Safety: Adhering to aviation regulations both CAA and EASA and maintaining detailed logs and reports to ensure operational integrity. QUALIFICATIONS * Valid certification and qualifications appropriate to the RPAS category operated, GVC and up to RPC-L4 when available. * Proven experience conducting RPAS missions, with a strong operational background. * Excellent situational awareness and ability to make sound judgments in dynamic conditions. * Technical competence in RPAS systems, including troubleshooting and sensor data interpretation. * Strong communication skills and ability to work effectively within a team. * High standard of professionalism, with a commitment to compliance, safety, and accurate record-keeping. * Flexibility to adapt to different environments and mission profiles. * Must be eligible for UK Security Clearance. Our Commitment to the Armed Forces Community We are proud to hold the Bronze Award from the Defence Employer Recognition Scheme (ERS), reflecting our meaningful commitment and ongoing support for UK defence personnel. At our core, we believe in championing those who serve, those who have served, and their families. As part of this scheme, we are dedicated to providing an inclusive, supportive environment where members of the Armed Forces community can thrive and bring their invaluable skills to our team.