Flight Test Engineer (All Genders)

Stark Defence; Deutschland; Remote; EUR 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Stark Defence is seeking a Flight Test Engineer in Germany to plan, execute, and analyze UAV flight tests for experimental fixed-wing platforms. You will collaborate with the R&D team to validate system performance and advance autonomous flight technologies.

The role requires a degree in aerospace or a related field, hands-on flight-test experience, and strong data analysis skills using Excel or Python. NATO citizenship is required for security considerations.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree or higher in Aerospace Engineering or related field.
• Experience planning and conducting system or flight tests.
• Experience with data reduction, processing and analysis using Excel or Python.
• Problem-solving mindset and ability to work independently in a dynamic startup environment.
• Excellent written and verbal English communications.
• Citizen of a NATO member state due to export control and security regulations.

Responsibilities

• Plan, coordinate, and execute UAV flight tests in compliance with safety and operational protocols.
• Develop flight test plans, test cards, and hazard assessments.
• Analyze flight data and provide feedback for system improvements.
• Work with ArduPilot and PX4-based flight control systems.
• Document all flight activities, test results and anomalies.
• Collaborate with software and hardware engineers to iterate UAV performance.
• Support flight readiness reviews, safety boards, and development activities.

Skills

Aerospace Engineering

Flight test planning

Data analysis

English communication

Independent work

Security clearance eligibility

Education

Bachelor's degree or higher in Aerospace Engineering

Tools

ArduPilot

PX4

Excel

Python

Job description

At Stark, we forge the future of European and national security through cutting-edge, AI-driven technology and unmatched engineering precision. As a premier defence technology company, our mission is clear: to equip NATO Allies and their partners with next-generation autonomous defence platforms and advanced AI-driven software built to perform in the world’s most demanding environments.

We believe that true security stems from relentless innovation. By combining elite engineering talent with agile technology and an AI-native operational culture, Stark turns complex defence challenges into field-tested, multi-domain solutions.

Why Join Us?

• The software and systems you work on directly protect personnel and defend European and national sovereignty.
• You will work alongside industry-leading minds on autonomous systems, advanced propulsion, and secure cyber platforms.
• We foster a fast-paced, collaborative environment where bold ideas are supported by serious R&D backing.

Your Mission

As a Flight Test Engineer, depending on your experience, you will be responsible for the planning, execution, and analysis of flight tests for experimental fixed-wing UAV platforms. You will work closely with the experimental R&D team to conduct flight research or validate system performance and contribute to the next generation of our autonomous flight technologies.

Responsibilities

• Plan, coordinate, and execute UAV flight tests in compliance with all applicable safety and operational protocols.
• Develop flight test plans, test cards, and flight test hazard assessments.
• Process and analyse flight data and provide feedback for future system improvements.
• Work with Ardupilot and PX4-based flight control systems.
• Document all flight activities, test results, and anomalies thoroughly.
• Collaborate closely with software developers and hardware engineers to rapidly iterate and improve UAV performance.
• Contribute to flight readiness reviews, safety review boards and support certification and development activities.

Required Skills

• Hold a bachelor’s degree or higher in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related technical field.
• Have practical experience planning and conducting system or flight tests in related industry or projects.
• Have practical experience with data reduction, processing and analysis techniques using tools such as Excel or Python.
• Have a problem-solving mindset, coupled with an ability to work independently in a dynamic startup environment.
• Possess excellent written and verbal communication skills in English.
• Be a citizen of a NATO member state (due to export control and security regulations)

Nice-To-Have

• Active previous experience as a Flight Test Engineer in either crewed or uncrewed aviation.
• Experience as a UAV / General Aviation pilot (hobbyist, commercial, or military experience).
• Be familiar with UAV ground control stations, telemetry systems, and flight planning tools.
• Experience in operating drones as a qualified RPIC during test flights.
• Hands-on knowledge of developing and tuning Ardupilot and PX4 open-source autopilot systems.
• Experience with flight test instrumentation and data acquisition systems.
• Have knowledge of aviation regulations. (EASA SORA, or similar)

At Stark Defence, we are committed to building a diverse, inclusive, and high-performing team. We operate in an industry where women, as well as other minority groups, are systematically under-represented. We actively encourage applications from candidates of all backgrounds and identities.

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.