Software Flight Test Engineer ( All Genders)

Permanent employee, Full-time · Berlin

About Us

STARK is a defense technology company that is fundamentally changing the use of autonomous systems in various operational environments. We design, develop, and manufacture high-performance unmanned systems that are software-controlled, scalable to high volumes, and cost-effective. This gives our forces a decisive advantage in challenging combat environments.

Our focus is on ready-to-use, high-performance systems—not vague promises for the future. In an era of growing threats, STARK strengthens the technological superiority of NATO allies and their partners to ensure deterrence and defend Europe today

Your mission

Design, execute, and analyze complex flight test campaigns for fixed-wing and multirotor unmanned systems, ensuring safe, repeatable, and performance-driven validation of autonomous guidance, navigation, and control algorithms under realistic and extreme operational scenarios.

Responsibilities

Plan and execute flight tests for fixed-wing UAVs and copters
Act as remote pilot (RPAS) for experimental missions
Design test procedures for:
- GNSS-denied navigation
- Dynamic moving target engagements
- High-wind and degraded sensor environments
Conduct pre-flight and post-flight system checks (mechanical, electrical, firmware)
Integrate payloads, sensors, telemetry, and safety systems
Analyze flight logs (EKF behavior, control loops, actuator response, energy usage)
Debug hardware/software integration issues on-site
Design and build custom test rigs or mechanical/electrical modifications for experimental setups
Coordinate with Control and Perception teams
Enforce strict safety and airspace compliance standards

Qualifications

Certified UAV pilot (fixed-wing and multirotor)
Strong understanding of:
- Flight dynamics
- Control theory basics
- Aerodynamics
- Electrical systems (power distribution, ESCs, batteries)
Ability to read schematics and debug hardware
Experience with flight controllers
Telemetry and log analysis skills
Mechanical assembly and rapid prototyping capability
Strong troubleshooting mindset

Nice to Have

Experience with PX4 or ArduPilot
Background in aerospace or mechanical engineering
Experience with tube-launch systems
GNSS-denied flight experience
EKF debugging knowledge
ROS2 ecosystem familiarity
Experience in high-risk flight testing
Python/C++ scripting for analysis

If you´re intersted in building the future of European Defence with us, and you see yourself reflected in the description above, please send us your CV in English. We´re looking forward to meeting you!

Recruiter for this position

For further information, please reach out to talent@stark-defence.com.

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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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