Stark Defence

About Us STARK is a new kind of defence technology company revolutionising 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 are 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. About the team Your mission You will be a key technical leader for a next-generation Unmanned Aerial System (UAS), driving a holistic, safety-by-design systems engineering approach across the entire product lifecycle. As a Senior UAV Systems Engineer, you will own the overarching platform architecture, defining how complex mechanical, electrical, avionics, and software subsystems interface and operate together. You will bridge the gap between high-level requirements and deployable hardware, managing system integration, verification activities, and leading rigorous testing campaigns to ensure our autonomous systems are robust, compliant, and mission-ready. Responsibilities Serve as a senior technical authority for UAS platform development and upgrades, owning overall system coherency, architecture, and performance from concept through to deployment. Work day-to-day within multidisciplinary engineering teams (mechanical, electrical, avionics, software, flight test) to guide full-lifecycle UAS design, integration, and fielding. Conceptualise and capture system architecture for new platforms and enhancements, producing technical trade studies, mass/power/link budgets, and system performance assessments. Produce layout and system design plans, define Interface Control Documents (ICDs), and enforce interface control processes across complex mechanical, electrical, and software subsystems. Establish and maintain requirements baselines, safety requirements, and end-to-end traceability using industry tools (e.g., IBM DOORS) and Model-Based Systems Engineering (MBSE) approaches. Establish and execute the system safety program, coordinating Hazard Assessments (PHA/SHA/SSHA) and FMEA/DFMEA activities to ensure the platform meets stringent airworthiness and safety requirements. Implement robust change control processes to manage and assess the impact of engineering modifications on system safety, performance, and compliance. Act as the primary technical interface between internal teams, suppliers, and customers to coordinate payload integration and custom hardware/software interfaces for rapid capability delivery. Manage tactical engineering tasks during development sprints and live flight-test campaigns, rapidly resolving cross-discipline technical blockers and maintaining strict configuration control. Qualifications Degree (or equivalent) in Aerospace, Systems, Electrical, Robotic, or a closely related Engineering discipline. Significant industry experience with demonstrable systems engineering responsibility specifically on UAVs, autonomous aircraft, or complex, safety-critical aerospace platforms. Strong practical experience integrating complex UAS sub-systems: power distribution, propulsion, RF/EMC, EO/IR sensors, datalinks, flight controllers (GNSS/INS), and payload interfaces. Proven track record in requirements capture, compliance analysis, and verification/validation (V&V) activities; proficient with requirements management tools (IBM DOORS or similar). Familiarity with aerospace safety/airworthiness standards (e.g., ARP4754A, ARP4761, DO-178C, DO-254) and the principles of configuration management in a regulated environment. Practical familiarity with MBSE principles, interface control processes, and risk mitigation methodologies (FMEA/DFMEA). Excellent written and verbal communication skills; highly organised with the ability to lead technical reviews. Ability to operate effectively in fast-moving, agile environments and willingness to travel within the UK/Europe for flight testing and field integration. Security-cleared or eligible to obtain UK defence clearance. Desirable Prior experience acting as a Systems Engineering Lead on a fielded UAV platform, authoring flight readiness certification and safety assurance documentation. Experience integrating complex/custom tactical payloads, electronic warfare (EW) components, or edge computing hardware for defence customers. A background in start up or scale up environments where rapid prototyping, hardware in the loop (HIL) testing, and pragmatic engineering decisions are standard.

Stark Defence in Swindon is looking for a Senior UAV Systems Engineer to oversee UAS platform architecture. You will lead cross-disciplinary engineering teams to ensure system safety and mission readiness while managing integration and testing of unmanned systems. The ideal candidate has extensive experience in UAV systems engineering and strong integration skills with complex subsystems. The role may require travel within the UK and Europe.

Stark Defence is seeking an Autopilot Engineer in Taunton, England. You will develop and customize firmware for autonomous systems, focusing on optimizing, debugging, and integrating autopilot functionality. The ideal candidate has a degree in Robotics or software engineering and 3 to 6 years of relevant experience. Strong expertise in MAVlink, PX4 firmware, C++, and Python is essential. Applicants must be eligible for UK Security Clearance.

About Us STARK is bringing its expertise in software-defined unmanned systems to the maritime domain. Traditional fleets alone cannot safeguard this vast, critical space. Unmanned Surface Vessels (USVs) extend naval reach at lower cost and reduced risk to personnel. Our maritime family of systems is AI-enabled and built for reliable performance in the harshest seas, delivering NATO a fully integrated hardware-software capability for scalable ISR and strike operations. Your mission Reporting directly to the Head of the Control team, the Guidance Engineer role will spearhead the development of GNSS denied navigation and terminal guidance for autonomous drones using best-practices and know-hows. Responsibilities Designing and testing control and navigation algorithms Programming different control algorithms using C++ and ROS 2 framework, with Test driven development Integrating all ROS2 packages into one autonomous system that works with MAVLink protocol to control autopilot Deployment into NVIDIA Jetson ecosystem Writing/preparing documentation for algorithms, testing and systems Support the team on the upcoming challenges Apply problem solving skills to reach team goals in fast past start-up environment Qualifications Bachelor's or Master's degree in Robotics, computer sicence, software engineering, or similar relevant areas of expertise 3 - 6 years of relevant experience in similar roles Excellent use of C/C++ Experience in Embedded Systems Prior experience programming ROS2 Experience working with MAVLink protocols Experience with any sort of Autopilots (Ardupilot / Px4) will be considered a plus Experience with NVIDIA Jetson Applicants MUST eligible for UK Security Clearance and willing to be in Devon 2-3 days per week

Stark Defence is seeking a Guidance Engineer in the United Kingdom. This role focuses on developing GNSS denied navigation and terminal guidance for autonomous drones, utilizing C++ and the ROS 2 framework. The ideal candidate has a degree in robotics or software engineering, with 3-6 years of experience in relevant roles. Applicants must also be eligible for UK Security Clearance and willing to work in Devon 2-3 days a week.

Stark Defence is seeking an Autopilot Engineer to develop and customize firmware for autonomous systems. You will work closely with the Control team, optimizing firmware to process commands and ensuring compatibility with AI systems. The ideal candidate will have 3-6 years of experience and must be eligible for UK Security Clearance. This role requires working in South West England for 2-3 days a week. Strong skills in MAVlink, C++, and Python are essential.

Stark Defence is seeking a seasoned operations leader for project delivery in Ukraine. You will manage cross-functional teams and build relationships with key stakeholders to ensure the success of in-country programmes. Ideal candidates should have deep experience in defence or complex logistics and possess strong communication and negotiation skills. Proficiency in Ukrainian or Russian is highly advantageous and you must be eligible for UK Security Clearance. Frequent travel to Ukraine (up to 70 days/year) is expected.

Your mission You will be the systems safety lead for a next-generation Unmanned Aerial System (UAS), driving a safety-by-design approach across the entire product lifecycle. This includes ensuring all mechanical, electrical, and software subsystems meet stringent safety requirements. As a Principal / Senior Systems Engineer, you will define the safety-critical architecture and interfaces, manage safety integration and verification activities, and drive system safety validation through rigorous testing, hazard analysis, and compliance reporting. Responsibilities Serve as the system safety lead for UAS product development and upgrades, owning overall platform safety and coherency from concept through delivery. Work day-to-day within multidisciplinary teams (mechanical, electrical, avionics, software, test) across the full lifecycle of UAS design, integration, test and fielding. Conceptualise and capture system architecture for new platforms and enhancements, producing technical trade studies, safety critical sizing, and system performance assessments. Establish and execute the system safety program, including the development of Preliminary Hazard Analyses (PHA) and System/Subsystem Hazard Assessments (SHA/SSHA). Lead and coordinate Failure Mode and Effects Analysis (FMEA) and Design Failure Mode and Effects Analysis (DFMEA) activities across multidisciplinary teams. Produce layout and system design plans, define Interface Control Documents (ICDs) and enforce interface control processes for mechanical, electrical, and software subsystems. Establish and maintain requirements baselines, including safety requirements, and traceability using industry tools (e.g., IBM DOORS) and MBSE approaches. Implement robust change control processes to manage and assess the impact of all design changes on system safety and compliance. Act as the technical interface between internal teams, suppliers and customers to coordinate payload integration, unique/custom hardware or software interfaces, and ensure on time capability delivery. Manage tactical engineering tasks during development sprints and test campaigns, resolving cross discipline issues and maintaining configuration control. Qualifications Degree (or equivalent) in Systems, Aerospace, Electrical or a closely related Engineering discipline. Significant industry experience with demonstrable systems engineering and system safety responsibility on UAV/aerospace or equivalent complex, safety critical platforms. Strong practical experience integrating complex systems: power systems, RF/EMC, EO sensors, networking, flight controllers and payload interfaces. Proven track record in requirements capture, compliance analysis, and verification/validation activities; proficient with requirements management tools (IBM DOORS or similar). Demonstrable experience leading and executing safety analyses, including Hazard Assessments (PHA/SHA/SSHA) and FMEA/DFMEA. Familiarity with safety standards (e.g., ARP4754A, ARP4761, DO-178C, DO-254) and the principles of requirements and change control in a regulated environment. Familiarity with MBSE principles, interface control processes and configuration management in regulated environments. Excellent written and verbal communication skills; highly organised and detail oriented. Ability to operate effectively in fast moving, ambiguous environments and to travel within the UK/Europe for testing and integration. A genuine passion for system development, integration and testing and a collaborative, inclusive team approach. Security cleared or eligible to obtain UK defence clearance. Desirable Prior experience leading Systems Engineering and authoring safety assurance documentation and risk management artefacts. Experience integrating complex/custom payloads for partner or customer use (hardware, electrical and software interfaces). Background in start up or scale up environments where rapid prototyping, iterative testing and pragmatic engineering decisions are typical.

About Us STARK is a new kind of defence technology company revolutionising 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 We are seeking a seasoned operational and project delivery leader with deep experience working in Ukraine and across multinational, high tempo environments. You will be responsible for supporting the country lead in end to end project execution for secured contracts in Ukraine-driving delivery excellence, building strong in country relationships, and ensuring our systems reach operators quickly, safely, and with maximum operational advantage. This role is ideal for a commercial minded operations professional with a background in defence, technology, engineering, or complex logistics programmes. Responsibilities Project Planning & Delivery Support planning, execution, and delivery of in country programmes, ensuring performance against cost, time, and quality commitments. Build relationships with key suppliers, forecasting models, and governance mechanisms to give clarity and control across all delivery milestones. Facilitate cross functional collaboration between UK teams, engineering, supply chain, operations, and partner organisations. Monitor progress continuously, managing risks and adjusting plans to maintain delivery momentum in dynamic environments. Liaison & Stakeholder Management Support the primary in country liaison with partner forces, suppliers, governmental bodies, and STARK's internal teams. Build trusted relationships that underpin long term cooperation, transparency, and mission success. Logistics & Operational Security Oversee logistics, movement control, and in country support for project delivery and T&E activities. Ensure strict adherence to Operational Security policies, safeguarding people, assets, and sensitive information. Customer Advisory & Relationship Management Act as a trusted adviser to customers and partners, shaping CONOPs, feasibility assessments, and tailored technical solutions. Understand the operational realities on the ground and help customers realise the full value of STARK systems. Nurture long term relationships that support future growth and continuous improvement. Qualifications Demonstrated experience operating in Ukraine, with a strong grasp of local dynamics and multinational project delivery. Proven leadership in complex programmes involving engineering, European supply chains, logistics, defence, or technology. Exceptional stakeholder management skills across cultures, functions, and seniority levels. Strong communication, negotiation, risk management, and problem solving abilities. Ukrainian and/or Russian language skills are highly advantageous. Ability to thrive in dynamic, ambiguous, and high tempo environments. Eligible for UK Security Clearance at SC level (DV desirable). Willingness to travel frequently to Ukraine up to 70 days per year.

Overview Permanent employee, Full-time - Swindon 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. Role Your mission We are seeking a talented Backend Engineer to design and build the backbone of next-generation systems that integrate data, sensors, and control applications into secure, high-performance software. You will contribute to technology that powers aerospace, automotive, robotics, and defence-related platforms where real-world devices meet advanced software. Responsibilities Coding first! - Develop and maintain the backend of our core software systems. Design, build, and extend APIs and SDKs to integrate assets, sensors, and external applications. Expand and optimise our architecture to deliver scalable, reliable solutions. Integrate and extend existing software, ensuring interoperability across complex systems. Implement relevant standards (including STANAG and industry protocols). Manage high-volume mission and sensor data storage and processing. Conduct rigorous testing of both software and system-level functionality. Contribute to improving our C++ development environment. Stay current with emerging technologies, identifying innovations to enhance our products. Deep-dive into complex technical issues, solving challenging problems at system level. Evaluate and challenge requirements, focusing on what adds real value. Qualifications Bachelor's or Master's degree in Engineering, Computer Science, or a related field. Strong proficiency in C++ (Rust experience a strong plus). Experience with server applications and API integration. Solid understanding of software architecture and frameworks. Background in autopilot, flight control systems, robotics, or similar control technologies is highly desirable. Experience with integrated sensor systems, inter-process communication, or TypeScript (frontend) is a plus. Relevant experience in aerospace, automotive, robotics, IoT, or connected real-world devices. Excellent problem-solving and debugging skills. Strong collaboration and communication skills for multidisciplinary teamwork. Adaptability to thrive in a fast-moving, innovative environment. Eligibility for UK Security Clearance is essential. Willingness to travel in the UK and Europe when required. Legal and Equal Opportunity We are an equal-opportunity employer committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, or any other characteristic protected by law. Due to the nature of our work in the defense sector, candidates must be eligible to obtain and maintain the appropriate security clearance required for the position.

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.

A defense technology company located in Swindon seeks an experienced RPAS Operator to join their innovative team. The role involves mission planning, flight operations, data collection and analysis, and compliance with safety regulations. Ideal candidates must hold valid certifications for RPAS operations and possess a strong operational background. This opportunity offers a chance to contribute to advanced autonomous systems that support NATO and its allies.