Lead Software Engineer Maritime

Permanent employee, Full-time · Devon

About Us

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. This provides our operators with a decisive edge in highly contested environments.

STARK is bringing its expertise in software-defined unmanned systems to the maritime domain. Traditional fleets alone cannot safeguard this vast, critical space. Unmanned Surface Vessels (USVs) extend naval reach at lower cost and reduced risk to personnel.

Our maritime family of systems is AI-enabled and built for reliable performance in the harshest seas, delivering NATO a fully integrated hardware–software capability for scalable ISR and strike operations.

Your mission

You’ll lead the development of STARK’s maritime software capability, integrating autonomous sea systems into the Minerva front-line platform. You’ll design and implement modern C++ architecture that connects front-line control with edge computing systems — ensuring reliability, precision, and operational excellence at sea.

Responsibilities

Lead software design, development, and integration for maritime systems within the Minerva platform.
Develop and maintain core C++ architecture for autonomy, control, and communication subsystems.
Build and manage software delivery pipelines for maritime applications, from edge to front-line.
Conduct detailed code reviews and enforce modern C++ standards across the team.
Collaborate with hardware and systems engineers to integrate code with real-world autonomous platforms.
Define software structure, interfaces, and quality benchmarks to ensure cohesive, mission-ready systems.
Support future team growth by establishing technical foundations and engineering best practices.

Qualifications

Expert in modern C++ with hands-on development experience.
Strong understanding of software architecture, integration, and system design.
Experience in real-time, embedded, or safety-critical systems — ideally in automotive, aerospace, or defence.
Familiar with autonomous control systems such as autopilots, guidance algorithms, or vehicle dynamics.
Practical experience working with physical hardware, sensors, or data communication systems.
Advantageous: experience with radar, sensors, maritime systems, or web-based front-ends (TypeScript, React).
Knowledge of data communications, including Starlink and tactical radio systems, is a plus.
Security-cleared or eligible to obtain defence-level clearance within the UK/EU.

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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.

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