Flight Operations & Safety Lead (UAS Flight Test)

About this role

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 — providing operators with a decisive edge in 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.

As Flight Operations & Safety Lead (UAS Flight Test) at STARK, you are the individual who ensures every test flight we conduct is legally defensible, regulatorily compliant, and commercially insured before the rotors start spinning. You will be the operational backbone of our regulatory function, reporting directly to the Head of Flight Test and also working in close collaboration with our Legal team. You are a hands-on regulatory operator who owns the SORA process end-to-end, manages the interface with National Aviation Authorities, ensures our test crews are qualified and current, and builds the compliance infrastructure that enables STARK to fly faster and more often than any competitor.

Lead regulatory and operational approval activities for flight test and UAS operations, ensuring safe, compliant, and efficient execution of test campaigns across Europe. Prepare and coordinate operational authorisation submissions with aviation authorities, including EASA, the LBA , and other relevant National Aviation Authorities, while managing ongoing compliance obligations. Support operational risk assessments and safety case development, including the identification of hazards, risk mitigation strategies, operational limitations, and safety requirements for flight testing activities.

Maintain and oversee active flight authorisations, permits, and approvals, ensuring operational readiness and regulatory compliance across all flight operations. Collaborate with military and civil aviation stakeholders to secure permits, approvals, and clearances required for experimental and developmental flight testing. Define and implement flight safety procedures, including airspace coordination, flight corridors, exclusion zones, emergency procedures, and range safety requirements.