Autopilot Engineer (Control) - (all genders)

About Us

STARK is a defense technology company revolutionising 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

Reporting directly to the Head of the Control team, as an Autopilot Engineer you will help develop/customize autopilot firmware for autonomous system operations.

Responsibilities

• Optimise/modify/program autopilot firmware to process the commands of our autonomous system
• Make it compatible with our AI systems
• Testing, debugging both autopilot and its integration into the controller.
• Integrating it into our simulation via software‑in‑the‑loop / hardware‑in‑the‑loop.
• Help solve upcoming challenges within the team
• Applying problem solving skills to contribute to achieving team goals

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Robotics, software engineering, computer science, or similar relevant areas of expertise
• +3 to 6 years of experience working in similar roles within this industry
• Expert in MAVlink protocol
• Good knowledge of PX4 firmware
• Expert in C++ and Python
• Excellent understanding of microcontrollers for real time operating systems
• Understanding of control systems
• Excellent team player
• Applicants MUST be eligible for UK Security Clearance and willing to be in the South West England area 2-3 days per week

Security Clearance

Due to the nature of our work in the defence sector, candidates must be eligible to obtain and maintain the appropriate security clearance required for this position. Details will be provided during the recruitment process.

Equal Opportunity

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, colour, religion, sex, national origin, disability, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.