UAV Test Pilot

SE3 Labs

🚀 JOIN SE3 LABS AS (SENIOR) TECHNICAL FIELD ENGINEER — ROBOTICS INTEGRATION & DEPLOYMENT Be the person who makes advanced autonomous systems work in the real world. Move across the full stack: drones, sensors, calibration, autonomy software, perception, networking, payloads, field operations, and partner environments. When the system is not mission-ready, you create clarity, find the root cause, and help make it robust.   ABOUT SE3 SE3 Labs is building Spatial AI by combining 3D computer vision with large language models. We believe the ability to reason about and act within physical space is foundational to unlocking the next generation of automation, from construction to smart infrastructure, and ultimately, defence. Now, we’re bringing Spatial AI into the sky through high-performance UAVs that can perceive, localize, coordinate, and act in the real world. This requires more than strong algorithms and good hardware. It requires systems that can be configured, calibrated, tested, deployed, demonstrated, debugged, and improved under real field conditions. We’re looking for a hands-on engineer who wants to work close to the product, close to the field, and close to the full autonomy stack. Someone who is not limited to one layer, but follows the problem wherever it leads.   ABOUT THE ROLE As (Senior) Technical Field Engineer — Robotics Integration & Deployment, you will own the last mile between SE3’s engineering team and real-world use. You will bring together UAVs, payloads, sensors, onboard compute, autonomy software, operator tools, and partner environments into systems that are ready to fly, test, demonstrate, and deploy. This is a highly hands-on, full-stack field engineering role. When something is not working, you go where the evidence leads: recalibrate a sensor, solve an issue in the perception stack, debug a radio link, inspect a harness, analyse a flight log, adapt an autonomy behavior, fix a configuration issue, improve a checklist, or bring the right evidence back to the engineering team. The problems you will work on are complex, dynamic, and multivariable. You will often have partial information, limited time, imperfect tools, and a system where hardware, software, environment, and operator behavior interact in non-obvious ways. Your job is to create clarity, choose the right debugging path, and drive the system toward a robust long-term solution. You will work closely with perception, robotics software, embedded, hardware, and flight-test teams. You will not just operate systems; you will make them better. Your work will determine how quickly SE3 moves from prototype to repeatable deployment, from demo to product, and from individual systems to operational fleets.   WHAT YOU’LL WORK ON * Create Clarity in complex situations: Separate symptoms from root causes, know when to trust intuition and when not to, devise efficient debugging workflows, reproduce failures, analyse logs, and drive lasting solutions that make the system more robust long term. * Cross-Stack Engineering: Move across hardware, software, sensors, calibration, perception, networking, autonomy, and operator workflows. When the root cause requires it, contribute directly to the layer that matters, from sensor calibration and deployment configuration to perception-stack behavior, autonomy logic, networking, or hardware integration. * Autonomy & System Integration: Bring together UAVs, payloads, onboard compute, cameras, IMUs, radios, ground stations, autonomy software, operator interfaces, and deployment tooling into field-ready systems. Configure and validate perception-stack behavior, mission logic, autonomy behaviors, operator workflows, and system responses under real operating conditions. * Tooling, Automation & AI Workflows: Build and use intelligent debugging, analysis, and agent-based workflows to understand complex system behavior faster. Improve scripts, checklists, dashboards, log pipelines, diagnostics, configuration tools, and deployment workflows. * Testing & Acceptance: Define and run acceptance tests for platforms, payloads, software releases, and deployment configurations. Own readiness checks across calibration, software flashing, networking, sensors, and pre-mission setup. Make readiness measurable, repeatable, and hard to fake. * Fieldability Ownership: Spot design flaws, integration gaps, recurring failure modes, and process bottlenecks. Turn field evidence into better hardware, software, procedures, and product decisions. * Field Service & Deployment: Install, configure, maintain, and support SE3 systems at test ranges, customer sites, partner demonstrations, exercises, and real-world deployments. Make sure our autonomous platforms perform reliably where it matters. * Partner & End-User Interface: Demonstrate systems to partners and end users, support training, translate field feedback into engineering requirements, and represent SE3 with technical credibility outside the lab.     YOUR PROFILE * Most importantly, you’re structured, fast-moving, and mission-driven. You don’t wait for perfect information. You create clarity, iterate fast, and prefer finding and fixing root causes over applying patches. * You hold a B.Sc., M.Sc. PhD, technical apprenticeship, military technical training, or equivalent practical background in Robotics, Aerospace Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, Embedded Systems, Mechatronics, or a related field. * You bring hands-on experience integrating, testing, operating, or troubleshooting complex robotic, UAV, embedded, automotive, industrial automation, or defence systems. * You are comfortable moving between hardware and software: Linux systems, sensors, radios, flight controllers, payloads, power systems, mechanical interfaces, networking, and operator tools. * You can read logs, inspect telemetry, use a command line, run scripts, flash devices, debug configurations, trace network issues, and communicate findings clearly. * You are not afraid of real hardware and field constraints. You use the right tools, inspect connectors, diagnose wiring or power issues, work with lab equipment, and stay systematic when the problem is messy. * You enjoy working directly with partners, operators, and end users. You can explain technical problems clearly, build trust in stressful situations, and represent SE3 professionally outside the lab. * You are proactive, hands-on, and willing to travel for field tests, partner demonstrations, and deployments across Europe and other strategic markets. * You speak fluent English; German is a strong plus. A driving license is required. Given the nature of SE3’s work in the defence sector, candidates must be eligible to work on defence-related projects and, where required, obtain the relevant security clearance.     ESPECIALLY VALUED BONUS SKILLS * Experience with ROS2, Docker, Linux, edge compute devices, C++/Python, Bash, Git, or deployment automation. * Experience with UAVs, PX4, ArduPilot, QGroundControl, Mission Planner, MAVLink, flight logs, mission planning, and airspace coordination. * Experience with networking and radio systems, including WiFi networks, LTE/5G modems, VPNs, telemetry links, antenna placement, RF interference, tactical communication links, and debugging connectivity issues in the field. * Experience soldering, crimping, repairing harnesses, using multimeters, oscilloscopes, spectrum analysers, serial consoles, or other lab and field equipment. * Experience with perception or autonomy systems, especially localisation, camera/IMU calibration, sensor synchronization, object detection, mapping, navigation, or mission autonomy. * Experience interpreting sensor data, robot logs, flight logs, frequency-domain data, vibration issues, EMI issues, thermal issues, or intermittent hardware failures. * Experience with environmental testing such as vibration, thermal, ingress protection, EMI/EMC, or MIL-STD-style qualification workflows. * Experience creating acceptance tests, runbooks, troubleshooting guides, fleet dashboards, release checklists, or field-support processes.   PERKS & BENEFITS * Real Ownership: Get equity early, real stock options to participate directly in SE3’s growth * Work Environment to Excel at: Find a high-quality and modern toolset, flat hierarchy and a skilled, driven team which will push the limits together with you. We are an AI-first company empowering every employee with best-in-class AI tools and agents, giving you unlimited access to the latest advancements and a true productivity edge. * 31 Paid Days Off: 30 vacation days plus your birthday off * Well-being Access: Free membership to gyms, yoga, and wellness through EGYM Wellpass * Team Offsites: We go on 2 company retreats per year, our last ones were in Italy and Greece * Mentorship: Work closely with experienced engineers and get paired with a professional mentor to support your growth   OUR PROCESS 1. Intro Call (20 min): Let’s get to know each other 2. Technical Interview (60 min): We dive into your experience with robotics systems in the field, complex debugging, system integration, and your technical background. 3. Onsite Trial/Case (1.5 hrs): We’ll integrate, diagnose, debug, or test something together, just like on the job. 4. Team Dinner/Lunch: See if it’s a culture fit on both sides

STARK

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. In a time of rising threats, STARK is bolstering the technological edge of NATO Allies and their Partners to deter aggression and defend Europe. YOUR MISSION As a UAV Test Pilot at STARK, you are the critical link between digital design and physical reality. Working in lockstep with Flight Test Engineers, you will be responsible for the planning, execution, and reporting of flight tests for experimental, developmental, and modified production systems. Your mission is to push our airframes to their limits to validate performance, ensure compliance with international standards, and prove the safety of our designs. You aren't just "flying drones", you are validating the next generation of autonomous flight technologies that will protect Europe. Whether you are executing high-performance manual maneuvers or monitoring complex BVLOS autonomous missions, your feedback will directly shape the software and hardware of the future. RESPONSIBILITIES RESPONSIBILITIES FLIGHT OPERATIONS & EXECUTION * Conduct remote piloting of unmanned aircraft during development and validation campaigns, often in full-manual mode to test the raw flight envelope. * Execute flight tests with surgical precision according to the flight test programme. * Monitor live telemetry and onboard video streams, maintaining total situational awareness of aircraft health and test status. * Coordinate seamlessly with GCS operators, observers, and engineers in a high-pressure team environment. TEST PLANNING & PREPARATION * Contribute operational expertise to test site selection, flight profiles, hazard analysis, and weather constraints. * Prepare UAV systems, including pre-flight configuration, control link verification, and functional system checks. * Assist with the integration and ground verification of flight-critical hardware and software. SAFETY, REGULATORY & DOCUMENTATION * Act as the final authority on safety for each sortie, conducting risk assessments and responding to anomalies or emergency situations. * Maintain airspace deconfliction in accordance with SORA and EASA regulatory requirements. * Participate in briefings/debriefings, providing structured, technical feedback on aircraft behavior. * Support licensing and documentation to build long-term test capabilities across Germany and Europe. YOUR FIRST 12 MONTHS TIMEFRAME FOCUS MONTH 0–1: ONBOARDING MASTER THE STARK TECH STACK. GET FAMILIAR WITH OUR CURRENT AIRFRAMES, GCS SOFTWARE, AND SAFETY PROTOCOLS. COMPLETE LOCAL SITE INDUCTIONS AND SHADOW EXISTING FLIGHT OPERATIONS. MONTH 1–3: INTEGRATION BEGIN EXECUTING STANDARD TEST CARDS. SUPPORT THE ENGINEERING TEAM IN GROUND-TESTING NEW COMPONENTS AND TAKE YOUR FIRST "STICK TIME" WITH EXPERIMENTAL PROTOTYPES. MONTH 3–6: MISSION LEAD LEAD FLIGHT TEST CAMPAIGNS FOR SPECIFIC SUBSYSTEM VALIDATIONS. CONTRIBUTE SIGNIFICANTLY TO SORA APPLICATIONS AND EXPAND OUR OPERATIONAL FOOTPRINT IN EUROPE. MONTH 6–12: ADVANCED TESTING EXECUTE COMPLEX BVLOS AND HIGH-PERFORMANCE ENVELOPES. START TRANSITIONING TOWARD FLIGHT TEST ENGINEERING (FTE) TASKS, INCLUDING DATA ANALYSIS AND TEST DIRECTOR RESPONSIBILITIES. QUALIFICATIONS EXPERIENCE & CERTIFICATIONS * Valid EU A1/A3 and A2 Remote Pilot Certificates (EASA). * Valid radio operator certificate (e.g., BZF) or the ability to obtain one immediately. * Demonstrable manual piloting skills of high-performance fixed-wing and multirotor UAVs (precision take-offs, landings, and maneuvering in tight spots). * Experience with professional GCS software, mission planning tools, and telemetry monitoring. * Must be a citizen of a NATO member state (due to export control and security regulations). TECHNICAL MINDSET * Familiarity with test operations under BVLOS and experimental conditions. * Skilled in maintaining situational awareness during long, complex multi-aircraft operations. * A problem-solving mindset—you don’t just report a bug; you help the engineers find the "why." * Excellent written and verbal communication in English. MINDSET & STYLE * Disciplined: You follow test cards to the letter but stay agile when a plan changes last minute. * Reliable: High attention to detail with a "safety-first" internal compass. * Startup Ready: You thrive in a fast-paced environment where your role evolves as the company grows. NICE TO HAVE * Previous experience as a Flight Test Engineer or holding a PPL/CPL/ATPL. * Hands-on experience tuning Ardupilot or PX4 autopilot systems. * Background in military UAV operations or defense contracting. WHY STARK * Shape the Future: A unique opportunity to influence the trajectory of autonomous flight tech. * Fast-Paced Growth: Flat hierarchies and a decision-heavy environment —no red tape, just results. * The Best Tools: Access to cutting-edge drone hardware and dedicated test facilities. * Career Path: Development pathway toward Senior Flight Test Engineer or Test Director roles. * Competitive Package: Salary that reflect your value to the mission.

STARK

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. In a time of rising threats, STARK is bolstering the technological edge of NATO Allies and their Partners to deter aggression and defend Europe. YOUR MISSION As a UAV Test Pilot at STARK, you are the critical link between digital design and physical reality. Working in lockstep with Flight Test Engineers, you will be responsible for the planning, execution, and reporting of flight tests for experimental, developmental, and modified production systems. Your mission is to push our airframes to their limits to validate performance, ensure compliance with international standards, and prove the safety of our designs. You aren't just "flying drones", you are validating the next generation of autonomous flight technologies that will protect Europe. Whether you are executing high-performance manual maneuvers or monitoring complex BVLOS autonomous missions, your feedback will directly shape the software and hardware of the future. RESPONSIBILITIES FLIGHT OPERATIONS & EXECUTION * Conduct remote piloting of unmanned aircraft during development and validation campaigns, often in stabilisation modes of fixed-wing and multirotor UAV configuration to test the raw flight envelope. * Execute flight tests with precision according to the flight test programme. * Monitor live telemetry and onboard video streams, maintaining total situational awareness of aircraft health and test status. * Coordinate with GCS operators, observers, and engineers in a high-pressure team environment. TEST PLANNING & PREPARATION * Contribute operational expertise to test site selection, flight profiles, hazard analysis, and weather constraints. * Prepare UAV systems, including pre-flight configuration, control link verification, and functional system checks. * Assist with the integration and ground verification of flight-critical hardware and software. SAFETY, REGULATORY & DOCUMENTATION * Act as the final authority on safety for each sortie, conducting risk assessments and responding to anomalies or emergency situations. * Maintain airspace deconfliction in accordance with SORA and EASA regulatory requirements. * Participate in briefings/debriefings, providing structured, technical feedback on aircraft behavior. * Support licensing and documentation to build long-term test capabilities across Germany and Europe. QUALIFICATIONS EXPERIENCE & CERTIFICATIONS * Valid EU A1/A3 Remote Pilot Certificates (EASA). * Valid radio operator certificate (e.g., BZF) or the ability to obtain one immediately. * Demonstrable manual piloting skills of high-performance fixed-wing and multirotor UAVs (precision take-offs, landings, and maneuvering in tight spots). * Experience with professional GCS software, mission planning tools, and telemetry monitoring. * Must be a citizen of a NATO member state (due to export control and security regulations). TECHNICAL MINDSET * Familiarity with test operations under BVLOS and experimental conditions. * Skilled in maintaining situational awareness during long, complex multi-aircraft operations. * A problem-solving mindset. You don’t just report a bug; you help the engineers find the "why." * Excellent written and verbal communication in English. MINDSET & STYLE * Disciplined: You follow test cards to the letter but stay agile when a plan changes at the last minute. * Reliable: High attention to detail with a "safety-first" internal compass. * Startup Ready: You thrive in a fast-paced environment where your role evolves as the company grows. NICE TO HAVE * Previous experience as a Flight Test Engineer or holding a PPL/CPL/ATPL. * Hands-on experience tuning Ardupilot or PX4 autopilot systems. * Background in military UAV operations or defense contracting.