UAV Pilot / GCS Operator - Production & Validation (All Genders)

STARK; Berlin; On-site; EUR 60,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

STARK is seeking a dedicated UAV Pilot / GCS Operator to join our advanced defence tech team in Germany. You will execute production flight tests, monitor live telemetry, and certify autonomous systems for demanding environments.

You will work with Flight Test Engineers to ensure every aircraft meets stringent performance standards, maintain rigorous logs, and contribute to safety procedures and pilot training materials.

Qualifications

• EU A1/A3 and A2 remote pilot certificates (EASA) required.
• Proven experience with GCS software, mission planning tools, and telemetry monitoring.
• Knowledge of BVLOS flight safety and regulatory practices.
• Citizen of a NATO member state due to export controls.

Responsibilities

• Production Flight Execution: perform remote piloting and GCS operation for production UAVs.
• System Preparation & Maintenance: conduct pre-flight configurations and system checks; verify control links.
• Safety & Continuous Improvement: lead airspace monitoring and respond to flight anomalies per safety protocols.
• Documentation: maintain rigorous records and post-flight documentation for airframes tested.

Skills

GCS software experience

Mission planning tools

Telemetry monitoring

BVLOS flight safety knowledge

English communication

Education

EU A1/A3 and A2 Remote Pilot Certificates (EASA)

Tools

ArduPilot

PX4 autopilot

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 aUAV Pilot / GCS Operator, your mission is to be the final gatekeeper of quality and safety. Working alongside Flight Test Engineers, you will lead the execution and reporting of production flight tests. Your role is to ensure that every system leaving our facility meets our rigorous performance standards and design specifications.

You will spend your days at the intersection of production and operations, monitoring live telemetry, validating autonomous behaviors, and providing the engineering team with the data they need to iterate. You aren’t just operating a drone; you are certifying a capability that will be deployed in the world’s most demanding environments.

Responsibilities

Production Flight Execution

• Conduct remote piloting and GCS operation for production-level unmanned aircraft.

• Execute standardized flight test programmes with high repeatability and precision to validate system performance.

• Monitor live telemetry and onboard video streams in real-time, ensuring flight conditions remain within the test envelope.

• Coordinate with observers and test engineers to maintain safe, efficient operations in a collaborative team environment.

System Preparation & Maintenance

• Perform pre-flight configurations, control link verifications, and comprehensive functional system checks.

• Assist in the ground verification of flight-critical hardware and software before takeoff.

• Maintain rigorous logbook standards and regulatory record keeping for every airframe tested.

Safety & Continuous Improvement

• Act as the tactical lead for airspace monitoring and deconfliction in accordance with SORA and EASA requirements.

• Respond decisively to flight anomalies and emergency situations by following established safety protocols.

• Contribute to the evolution of pilot training materials, safety documentation, and operational procedures.

Required Skills

Experience & Certifications

• ValidEU A1/A3 and A2 Remote Pilot Certificates(EASA).

• Valid radio operator certificate (e.g.,BZF) or willingness to obtain one.

• Proven experience with professionalGCS software, mission planning tools, and telemetry monitoring.

• Familiarity with flight safety protocols, particularly underBVLOSconditions.

• Must be a citizen of a NATO member state(due to export control and security regulations).

Technical Background

• High degree of comfort with structured, high-discipline test procedures.

• Ability to maintain deep situational awareness during long test sessions.

• Strong written and verbal communication skills inEnglish.

• Familiarity with regulatory recordkeeping and post-flight documentation.

Mindset & Style

• Precision-Oriented:You find satisfaction in repeatability and “doing it right every time.”

• Reliable:You are the person the team trusts to handle a $100k+ asset with care and discipline.

• Agile:You can pivot quickly when weather or production schedules shift.

Bonus Skills

• Previous experience as an RPIC for experimental drone testing.

• Practical knowledge ofArdupilot or PX4autopilot systems.

• Background in military UAV operations or the defense sector.

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.