Director of Engineering - South West England, UK

Permanent employee, Full-time · Remote

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
Assume the leadership role in deploying advanced engineering solutions within a dynamic defence weapon systems organisation. 

As the senior technical authority for all UK programmes, you will be responsible for the implementation, integration, and product iteration of our autonomous sensor and effector platforms. You will also serve as the functional head of the Engineering function, shaping its strategic direction and ensuring its operational success.

A core aspect of this position is providing technical thought leadership and contributing to the strategic roadmap for future products and capabilities. You will bring a demonstrated capacity for creative problem-solving, coupled with the ability to establish and enforce robust technical governance in the context of complex programme delivery.
Responsibilities
  • Direct the successful deployment of engineering solutions across all UK programmes, ensuring seamless integration and optimal performance of our autonomous weapon systems.

  • Collaborate closely with Product Owners and the Platform Design Authority to maintain alignment with product roadmaps and ensure adherence to the highest architectural standards.

  • Provide expert technical leadership and guidance to engineering teams, fostering a culture of innovation and excellence in the development of advanced weapon systems.

  • Define precise technical requirements and effectively influence customer requirements, ensuring our solutions meet their evolving needs within the defence sector.

  • Champion problem-solving and drive innovation within the engineering function, advancing the state-of-the-art in autonomous weapon systems and precision strike technology.

  • Inspire, mentor, and develop engineering teams, creating a collaborative, high-performing environment conducive to professional growth.

  • Assume responsibility for the overall performance and strategic direction of the Engineering function.

  • Play a key role in developing technology roadmaps and strategic plans for future products and capabilities, leveraging your deep technical expertise to guide our vision for next-generation weapon systems.

  • Establish and enforce rigorous technical governance frameworks to ensure the quality, security, and scalability of our solutions.

  • Cultivate a culture of creativity and innovation within the Engineering function, encouraging the team to explore novel ideas and approaches in the defence technology domain.

Qualifications
  • Extensive and demonstrable expertise in software-defined autonomous systems, with specific experience in areas such as:

  • Computer vision and image processing.

  • Sensor fusion techniques.

  • Path planning and navigation algorithms.

  • Embedded systems and real-time control.

  • Proven track record in human-machine teaming, defence AI/ML, and military C2 architectures, with a focus on weapon systems applications.

  • Experience with Modular Open Standards Approaches to integration and interoperability within complex systems.

  • Proficiency in defining and shaping customer requirements, with a strong understanding of the needs of the defence sector.

  • Exceptional problem-solving, communication, and interpersonal skills, with the capacity to influence and inspire.

  • Significant experience in managing and leading technical teams, driving them to achieve strategic objectives.

  • Experience in contributing to technology roadmaps and strategic planning, shaping the future direction of technology development.

  • Demonstrated ability to establish and enforce technical governance frameworks.

  • Security Clearance: Must be eligible to obtain and maintain UK Security Clearance (SC minimum, DV preferred). Due to the nature of this work the candidate must be a UK national. 

About us
LEGAL DISCLAIMER

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.
We are looking forward to hearing from you!
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