6 jobs found

TCO is looking for a Senior Systems Engineer to lead an Autonomous Systems team, covering UAV platforms, autonomous field robotics, sensing payloads, electronics and mechatronics integration, testing and deployment readiness. This is a hands-on technical leadership role with immediate line-management responsibility for a multidisciplinary team of around six engineers, with expected team growth. The role reports to the Head of Engineering and works closely with Product Engineering, Robotics Software, Operations and Field Operations to deliver systems that are practical, safe and field-ready. The successful candidate will combine technical credibility across UAV systems, autonomy, mechatronics, embedded systems, sensing and field testing with strong people leadership. They do not need to be the deepest specialist in every area, but they must be able to make good system-level judgements, bring multiple disciplines together and keep delivery moving in a fast-changing engineering environment. Team leadership, delivery and people management: Provide full line management for the Autonomous Systems team, including direct reporting lines, delegation and project/workload setting, mentoring, career development, performance management, HR and employee relations matters, motivation and team engagement. Establish clear priorities, ownership and delivery rhythms so the team can work effectively across multiple active projects and field trials. Technical direction and systems delivery: Lead engineering delivery across UAV platforms, autonomous robotics, onboard compute, autopilot systems, mechatronics, sensing, payload integration, embedded systems, communications, safety systems and field deployment equipment. Translate product, customer and operational needs into practical engineering plans, milestones and system trade-offs. Systems engineering leadership: Guide requirements interpretation, architecture decisions, interface definition, configuration, technical risks and failure modes across complex integrated systems. Ensure designs are buildable, testable, deployable, maintainable and suitable for harsh field environments including remote sites, high-voltage infrastructure, electromagnetic interference, transport and operator usability. Cross-functional coordination: Work closely with Product Engineering, Robotics Software, Perception, Electronics, Chemistry, Production, Logistics, Operations and Field Operations to align plans, unblock dependencies and ensure engineering decisions reflect real customer, safety, production, field and deployment constraints. Testing, validation and deployment readiness: Oversee bench testing, integration testing, flight trials, field trials and customer demonstrations where required. Ensure tests have clear objectives, acceptance criteria, safety controls, evidence capture and post-test learning, including appropriate consideration of failsafes, comms-loss behaviour, operator override and operational controls. Engineering process and technical governance: Improve engineering discipline without adding unnecessary bureaucracy, including appropriate documentation for architecture, interfaces, configurations, decisions, risks, test evidence and deployment readiness. Strengthen planning, issue tracking, design reviews, handover, lessons learned and review gates as the team scales. Roadmap, resourcing and team growth: Work with the Head of Engineering to align Autonomous Systems priorities with the wider engineering roadmap, identify capability gaps, hiring needs and team structure changes, and build a scalable autonomous systems function that supports the robotic coating and inspection roadmap. Requirements Required Skills & Experience 5+ years of experience in robotics, UAV systems, autonomous systems, aerospace, mechatronics, field robotics or a closely related engineering discipline. Experience leading or line-managing multidisciplinary engineering teams, including prioritisation, delegation, coaching, development and performance responsibility. Hands-on experience developing, integrating, testing or deploying UAV, robotic, mechatronic, embedded or autonomous systems in real-world environments. Strong systems engineering judgement, including requirements interpretation, architecture trade-offs, interface definition, risk assessment, failure modes and validation planning. Technical credibility across UAV systems, autonomy, mechatronics, electronics integration, embedded systems, sensing, communications and field testing. Proven ability to coordinate delivery across software, firmware, electronics, mechanical, operations, production, logistics or field teams to deliver integrated systems. Comfortable operating in a fast-moving engineering environment with incomplete information, shifting priorities and high delivery pressure. Degree in Robotics, Aerospace, Mechanical, Mechatronics, Electrical/Electronic Engineering, Control Systems, Computer Science or a related technical field, or equivalent industry experience. Preferred Skills & Experience Experience managing a team of 5 or more engineers and helping build or scale engineering team structures. Experience operating UAVs or robotic systems near infrastructure, utilities, industrial sites, construction, inspection, defence, aerospace or other safety-critical environments. Practical exposure to UAV autopilot or robotics ecosystems such as PX4, ArduPilot, MAVLink, QGroundControl, Mission Planner, ROS/ROS2 or Linux-based robotics integration. Experience with heavy-lift UAVs, custom UAV builds, tethered UAVs, payload deployment systems or field robotic deployment platforms. Familiarity with tools and workflows such as C++, Python, MATLAB/Simulink, Docker, Git, CI/CD, embedded software workflows or simulation environments. Experience with navigation, sensing or communications technologies such as sensor fusion, state estimation, visual navigation, localisation, mapping, RTK/GNSS, lidar, stereo vision, optical flow, line tracking, RF, LTE/5G, Wi-Fi, mesh networks or telemetry systems. Experience with safety cases, FMEA, test evidence, compliance, CAA/FAA regulations, SORA, GVC, A2 CofC or operational authorisations. Experience in startups, R&D environments, high-accountability product development teams or field-deployed technology businesses.

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.

Build software that powers unmanned systems already deployed in the real world. At sees.ai , we've developed a system that is already being used to inspect critical national infrastructure - operating in live environments, not simulations. Now, following a major contract with National Grid and recent investment, we're scaling that system into a robust, production-ready platform. We're looking for a Senior C++ Software Engineer to help take a working system and evolve it into something reliable, scalable, and ready for wider deployment. The Role This is a systems-focused engineering role, not a narrow backend position. You'll work across the core software stack that powers our unmanned systems - contributing to everything from flight control and mission systems, through to simulation, connectivity, and operator interfaces. You'll be working on software that directly impacts how the system behaves in the field, with a short feedback loop between development and real world use. This is an environment where: Systems are already deployed and used in live operations Issues are visible, tangible, and worth solving Improvements can be tested and validated quickly You'll balance hands on development and debugging with longer term architectural thinking as the platform evolves. What You'll Be Doing Developing and maintaining features across the unmanned systems software stack Working on systems including: Flight and mission control Autonomy algorithms (e.g. path planning, obstacle avoidance) Pilot interfaces with 3D visualisation Connectivity between drone and control systems Simulation and testing environments Debugging and improving system behaviour based on real world operational feedback Supporting testing and deployment alongside integration and operations teams Writing tests, documentation, and improving system reliability Contributing to architecture and technical direction as we scale What You'll Bring Strong experience in modern C++ (production systems) Solid understanding of software design, architecture, and debugging complex systems Interest in or exposure to robotics / autonomous systems, such as: Control systems Sensor fusion Path planning Experience working in Linux environments A pragmatic mindset - able to balance speed, reliability, and real world constraints Nice to Have Python (for tooling, testing, or analysis) Experience with simulation environments Networking or distributed systems knowledge Familiarity with CMake or similar build systems Experience with robotics, embedded systems, or real world autonomous platforms How You'll Work Enjoys working across the full system, not just one layer Wants to see their work used and tested in the real world Takes ownership of problems and follows them through to resolution Is comfortable with ambiguity and evolving systems Thrives in a collaborative, fast-moving team See your code deployed on operational systems within days Work on problems where software meets the physical world Be part of a high-performing, innovative and motivated team scaling a proven system into production Contribute to technology with visible impact on the world's energy security sees.ai has a friendly, down to earth culture where people enjoy working together and take pride in what they build. Teams collaborate closely across engineering, operations and commercial roles, sharing ideas openly and supporting each other to solve complex problems. There is real excitement in working on cutting edge autonomous technology, but it is balanced by a thoughtful, responsible approach. We're building the operating system for large scale unmanned inspection operations - enabling systems to be controlled remotely and deployed reliably in real world environments. Our technology is transforming how critical infrastructure is inspected, making it safer, more efficient, and scalable. You'll join at a pivotal stage, where a working system is being scaled into a robust platform, and where your work will directly shape how that happens.

Overview STARK is a European defence technology company founded in 2023, specialising in the development and production of advanced UAV and USV systems for modern military operations. Our flagship platform, Virtus, is a next-generation VTOL loitering munition system, and we are rapidly expanding our software and autonomy capabilities to deploy Unmanned Surface Vessels (USVs) for maritime surveillance and security. 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 across the UK, Germany, Greece and Ukraine 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. Everything we build ends up in the hands of real operators in the field. Responsibilities Develop and maintain test plans, scripts, integration procedures, and safety checklists for embedded marine solutions. Perform hardware/software diagnostics, defect localisation, and root-cause analysis on physical prototype boats. Validate how pure software components interface and integrate with marine autopilots, thrusters, steering systems, and payload hardware. Test and verify communication interfaces and protocols (MAVLink, RS485, TCP/IP, RTSP video streaming) as part of diagnostics and system verification. Verify critical safety-critical fail-safe mechanisms including remote emergency shutdowns, geolocation geofencing, and offline update/recovery systems. Help set up, maintain, and run tests in Software-in-the-Loop (SITL) and Hardware-in-the-Loop (HITL) test environments. Interact closely with software development, systems, and field flight/marine testing teams to log, track, and eliminate errors in a timely manner. Prepare clear testing reports, bug reports, and product stability/safety reviews in Jira and Confluence. Qualifications Minimum of 3 years of experience in hardware testing, hardware-in-the-loop testing, or embedded systems QA. Strong understanding of software testing theory (functional, integration, system, regression) combined with hands-on hardware troubleshooting. Experience working with embedded communication protocols (MAVLink, CAN, RS485, etc.). Strong knowledge of Linux systems and experience writing test scripts in Bash and/or Python. Familiarity with test management tools (Jira, Confluence) and version control (Git). Basic understanding of electronics, multimeters, and laboratory diagnostics equipment. Ability to write clear, structured test documentation and reports in English. Willingness and ability to work on physical boats during harbor/sea trials and in field-testing environments. Prior experience in marine robotics, maritime autopilots, USVs, UAVs, or marine electronics. A valid marine boating license or experience with outdoor maritime testing operations. Benefits & Recognition STARK Defence UK has achieved the ERS - The Defence Employer Recognition Bronze award 2026. Contact Talent Contact: Sally Grutte-Pad, Interim Lead TA Partner, via

About Us STARK is a European defence technology company founded in 2023, specialising in the development and production of advanced UAV and USV systems for modern military operations. Our flagship platform, Virtus, is a next-generation VTOL loitering munition system, and we are rapidly expanding our software and autonomy capabilities to deploy Unmanned Surface Vessels (USVs) for maritime surveillance and security. 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. About the team 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 across the UK, Germany, Greece & Ukraine 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. Your mission We are seeking a highly skilled QA Engineer to take ownership of system level and integration testing for our maritime autonomy platforms and prototype boats. You will bridge the gap between pure software quality assurance and hardware/software integration, working hands on with hardware, software, and communication interfaces-both in the laboratory and out in the field on prototype vessels. Responsibilities Test Strategy & Execution:Develop and maintain test plans, scripts, integration procedures, and safety checklists for embedded marine solutions. Diagnostics & Defect Localization:Perform hardware/software diagnostics, defect localization, and root cause analysis on physical prototype boats. System Integration Testing:Validate how pure software components interface and integrate with marine autopilots, thrusters, steering systems, and payload hardware. Interface Protocols:Test and verify communication interfaces and protocols (MAVLink, RS485, TCP/IP, RTSP video streaming) as part of diagnostics and system verification. Marine Safety Validation:Verify critical safety critical fail safe mechanisms including remote emergency shutdowns, geolocation geofencing, and offline update/recovery systems. Loop Testing Support:Help setup, maintain, and run tests in Software in the Loop (SITL) and Hardware in the Loop (HITL) test environments. Collaboration:Interact closely with software development, systems, and field flight/marine testing teams to log, track, and eliminate errors in a timely manner. Documentation:Prepare clear testing reports, bug reports, and product stability/safety reviews in Jira and Confluence. Qualifications Minimum of 3+ years of experience in hardware testing, hardware in the loop (HIL) testing, or embedded systems QA. Strong understanding of software testing theory (functional, integration, system, regression) combined with hands on hardware troubleshooting. Experience working with embedded communication protocols (MAVLink, CAN, RS485, etc.). Strong knowledge of Linux systems and experience writing test scripts in Bash and/or Python. Familiarity with test management tools (Jira, Confluence) and version control (Git). Basic understanding of electronics, multimeters, and laboratory diagnostics equipment. Ability to write clear, structured test documentation and reports in English. Willingness and ability to work on physical boats during harbor/sea trials and in field testing environments. STARK Defence UK has achieved the ERS - The Defence Employer Recognition Bronze award 2026 Nice to have Prior experience in marine robotics, maritime autopilots, USVs, UAVs, or marine electronics. A valid marine boating license or experience with outdoor maritime testing operations.