Skdse
Flight Test Engineer (All Genders)
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Confirm work authorization, visa sponsorship and location requirements with the employer.About the role
At Stark, we forge the future of European and national security through cutting-edge, AI-driven technology and unmatched engineering precision. As a premier defence technology company, our mission is clear: to equip NATO Allies and their partners with next-generation autonomous defence platforms and advanced AI-driven software built to perform in the world’s most demanding environments.
We believe that true security stems from relentless innovation. By combining elite engineering talent with agile technology and an AI-native operational culture, Stark turns complex defence challenges into field-tested, multi-domain solutions.
Why Join Us?
- The software and systems you work on directly protect personnel and defend European and national sovereignty.
- You will work alongside industry-leading minds on autonomous systems, advanced propulsion, and secure cyber platforms.
- We foster a fast-paced, collaborative environment where bold ideas are supported by serious R&D backing.
Your Mission
As a Flight Test Engineer, depending on your experience, you will be responsible for the planning, execution, and analysis of flight tests for experimental fixed-wing UAV platforms. You will work closely with the experimental R&D team to conduct flight research or validate system performance and contribute to the next generation of our autonomous flight technologies.
Responsibilities
- Plan, coordinate, and execute UAV flight tests in compliance with all applicable safety and operational protocols.
- Develop flight test plans, test cards, and flight test hazard assessments.
- Process and analyse flight data and provide feedback for future system improvements.
- Work with Ardupilot and PX4-based flight control systems.
- Document all flight activities, test results, and anomalies thoroughly.
- Collaborate closely with software developers and hardware engineers to rapidly iterate and improve UAV performance.
- Contribute to flight readiness reviews, safety review boards and support certification and development activities.
Required Skills
- Hold a bachelor’s degree or higher in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related technical field.
- Have practical experience planning and conducting system or flight tests in related industry or projects.
- Have practical experience with data reduction, processing and analysis techniques using tools such as Excel or Python.
- Have a problem-solving mindset, coupled with an ability to work independently in a dynamic startup environment.
- Possess excellent written and verbal communication skills in English.
- Be a citizen of a NATO member state (due to export control and security regulations)
Nice-To-Have
- Active previous experience as a Flight Test Engineer in either crewed or uncrewed aviation.
- Experience as a UAV / General Aviation pilot (hobbyist, commercial, or military experience).
- Be familiar with UAV ground control stations, telemetry systems, and flight planning tools.
- Experience in operating drones as a qualified RPIC during test flights.
- Hands-on knowledge of developing and tuning Ardupilot and PX4 open-source autopilot systems.
- Experience with flight test instrumentation and data acquisition systems.
- Have knowledge of aviation regulations. (EASA SORA, or similar)
Equal Opportunity:
At Stark Defence, we are committed to building a diverse, inclusive, and high-performing team. We operate in an industry where women, as well as other minority groups, are systematically under-represented. We actively encourage applications from candidates of all backgrounds and identities.
If you are excited about this role, we encourage you to apply even if you don't meet all the listed qualifications—ability and impact cannot be summarised in a few bullet points. We value unique perspectives, adaptability, and a drive to solve high-stakes challenges.
Security Clearance:
Due to the nature of our work in the defence sector, candidates must be eligible to obtain and maintain the appropriate security clearance required for this position. Details will be provided during the recruitment process.
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