Field Operations Crew - Flight Operations / Flight Test (all genders)

STARK is a new kind of defence technology company, revolutionizing 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’re focused on delivering deployable, high-performance systems. In a time of rising threats, STARK is bolstering the technological edge of NATO Allies and their Partners to deter aggression and defend Europe.

Your Mission

As a Flight Test Field Operations Crew at STARK, you are the operational backbone of every test campaign. You keep the team moving: Sourcing what is missing, organizing what is there, and handling the wide variety of hands‑on tasks that keep a flight test programm on schedule. You will work directly alongside Flight Test Engineers and Pilots, taking ownership of the practical, physical, and logistical details so the technical team can stay focused on the mission. You thrive on variety. No two days are identical: One morning you are loading the van and sourcing a missing component; that afternoon you are on the flight line connecting hardware under engineer supervision. You are reliable, resourceful, and always ready to learn something new.

Responsibilities

Logistics & Site Preparation

• Van Loading & Equipment Management : Pack, load, and secure all flight test equipment, ground support equipment (GSE), tools, and spare parts for field operations. Maintain an organized and traceable equipment inventory
• Procurement Support : Identify and source consumables, spare parts, and last‑minute items required for test campaigns. Act quickly and decisively to prevent mission delays caused by missing equipment
• Site Setup & Teardown : Prepare and dismantle the test site efficiently — setting up safety perimeters, power stations, shelter, and support equipment in line with the test team's requirements
• Driving & Transport : Operate company vehicles to transport equipment, personnel, and materials to and from test sites. A valid driver's licence is mandatory for this role

Flight Line & Technical Support

• Pre‑Flight Preparation : Support engineers and pilots during pre‑flight checks: connecting and routing cables, managing battery charging systems, preparing airframes for test, and verifying ground support equipment readiness.
• On‑Site Technical Assistance : Provide hands‑on support for basic airframe assembly, sensor installation, and hardware configuration tasks under the guidance of Flight Test Engineers.
• Telemetry & Data Support : Learn to operate basic data logging and monitoring tools to support post‑flight data checks and anomaly tracking
• Airspace & Safety Assistance : Support safety procedures on site including range clearance, observer duties, and adherence to SORA/EASA site safety requirements as briefed by the responsible pilot

Operational Continuity

• Documentation : Maintain accurate logbooks for equipment use, procurement activities, and vehicle mileage. Support the team's recordkeeping and traceability requirements.
• Tool & Parts Management : Own the tool kit and spare parts inventory — ensuring everything is accounted for, maintained, and ready before each deployment.
• Continuous Improvement : Contribute ideas to improve logistics workflows, packing lists, and site preparation procedures based on first‑hand experience.

Your First 12 Months

Month 0–1

Onboard & Orient - Integrate into

STARKComplete STARK safety induction and site operations briefing. Shadow flight test engineers during pre‑flight setup, range preparation, and post‑flight breakdown. Familiarize yourself with the equipment inventory, tool management system, and vehicle loading procedures.

Month 1–3

Field Ready - Independent Operations

Take ownership of the daily logistics cycle: sourcing consumables, loading and organising the flight test van, maintaining ground support equipment (GSE) readiness. Begin assisting directly on the flight line under engineer supervision — connecting hardware, routing cables, managing charging systems.

Month 3–6

Technical Growth - Hands‑on Technical Involvement

Begin supporting basic airframe assembly, battery management, and firmware preparation tasks. Develop competency in telemetry monitoring software to support data checks. Assist in range surveys and site assessment preparation for new test locations.

Month 6–12

Become the go‑to person for site readiness and operational continuity. Actively contribute to improving logistics workflows, spare parts lists, and tooling checklists. Begin mentoring any incoming support staff and grow into an expanded technical role based on capability and interest.