Lead Hardware Engineer

Permanent employee, Full-time · Kyiv

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.

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.

Your mission

In this role, you will drive the hardware function forward — from electronics to mechanical and structural design - building reliable, scalable and mission-ready UAV systems. The role blends hands-on engineering with technical leadership, shaping the roadmap, setting standards, and guiding the team toward strong execution.

Responsibilities

Technical Leadership

Define and oversee hardware architecture for UAV platforms (electronics, power, communication, mechanical systems)
Review and approve circuit designs, PCB layouts, and mechanical drawings
Ensure hardware-software compatibility and smooth integration with avionics and payloads
Supervise prototyping, lab tests, and validation of new modules
Set up and maintain documentation standards and design workflows

Team & Process Leadership

Build and mentor a multidisciplinary team (electronics engineers, mechanical engineers)
Plan and prioritize tasks, balancing R&D and production needs
Coordinate with software, autopilot, and manufacturing teams
Establish internal review and testing procedures to ensure quality and reliability
Support hiring, onboarding, and competence development within the team

Cross-functional Collaboration

Work closely with system engineering, software development team and production leads to align hardware design with system requirements
Participate in design reviews and product roadmap discussions
Collaborate with suppliers and partners for component selection and sourcing

Qualifications

5+ years of experience in hardware engineering (electronics or mechatronics or embedded hardware development)
Proven background in designing and leading development of embedded or UAV-related hardware
Strong understanding of PCB design, power systems, RF, and mechanical integration
Experience managing small engineering teams or acting as a technical lead
Solid knowledge of development lifecycle — from concept and prototyping to serial production
Confident in documentation tools (Altium, SolidWorks, etc.) and version control
Excellent problem-solving and system-thinking skills
Intermediate and higher English

Nice to have

Experience in UAV, robotics, automotive, or defense electronics
Understanding of manufacturing and testing processes
Familiarity with MIL-STD, IPC standards, or DO-254
Background in mechanical design or integration

Personal Qualities

System thinker with a pragmatic approach
Strong ownership and ability to build processes from zero
Balance between precision and speed — able to make decisions under uncertainty
Team-oriented, open to feedback, and comfortable with hands-on work

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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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We are looking forward to hearing from you!

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