UAV Test Pilot (all genders)

About this role

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.

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 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.