Software Flight Test Engineer (All Genders)

Stark Defence; Berlin; Hybrid; EUR 80,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

Stark Defence in Berlin seeks a Software Flight Test Engineer to design, execute, and analyze flight tests for fixed‑wing and multirotor UAVs, validating autonomous guidance and control.

You will pilot experiments, design test procedures for GNSS‑denied navigation and degraded sensors, and integrate payloads and telemetry. Prior PX4/ArduPilot experience is a plus. Work with Control and Perception teams and maintain safety standards.

Qualifications

• Certified UAV pilot (fixed-wing or multirotor).
• Strong knowledge of flight dynamics, control theory, and aerodynamics.
• Experience with electrical systems: power distribution, ESCs, batteries.
• Mechanical assembly and rapid prototyping capability.
• Ability to read schematics and debug hardware.
• Experience with flight controllers.

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.

Skills

Certified UAV pilot

Flight dynamics

Control theory basics

Aerodynamics

Electrical systems

Mechanical assembly

Read schematics

Flight controllers

Tools

PX4

ArduPilot

Job description

Software Flight Test Engineer (All Genders)

Berlin, Germany

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

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

Required Skills

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

Nice-To-Have

• Experience with PX4 or ArduPilot
• Telemetry and log analysis skills
• Background in aerospace or mechanical engineering
• GNSS-denied flight experience
• EKF debugging knowledge
• Experience in high-risk flight testing
• Python/C++ scripting for analysis

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.

We value unique perspectives, adaptability, and a drive to solve high-stakes challenges.

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.