Tech Stack
Job Description, Responsibilities & Requirements
About the Position
Principal / Senior Mechanical Design Engineer (All Genders)
Location: Swindon, GB
Employment Type: Full-time, Permanent
About Us
STARK is a pioneering defence technology company revolutionizing the deployment of autonomous systems across multiple domains. We design, develop, and manufacture high-performance unmanned systems that are software-defined, mass-scalable, and cost-effective. Our focus is on delivering deployable, high-performance systems to bolster the technological edge of NATO Allies and their Partners to deter aggression and defend Europe today.
Your Mission
As our Senior Mechanical Design Engineer, you will be responsible for the mechanical architecture of STARK’s next-generation UAV platforms from concept to high-rate production. You will set technical direction, mentor engineers, and collaborate with cross-functional teams to deliver highly reliable, certifiable, and field-deployable systems under aggressive timelines.
Responsibilities
- Lead mechanical design for UK current and future UAV platforms
- Define and enforce best practices for parametric modeling, GD&T, and tolerance stack-ups
- Drive airframe material selection, structural layout, and manufacturability decisions
- Oversee supplier engagement for structural components, composites, and assemblies
- Collaborate with stress, flight test, and systems teams to ensure structural integrity
- Support and occasionally lead design reviews with leadership, partners, and certifying authorities
- Be hands-on with CAD (SolidWorks/CATIA), prototyping, and shop-floor troubleshooting, with a focus on process and design optimization for rate increase
Qualifications
- Mechanical design experience, ideally in aerospace / UAV / autonomous systems
- Proven record of taking structures from concept through verification to high-rate production (wing, fuselage, empennage)
- Expert in SolidWorks (CATIA V5/V6 a plus) and tolerance stack analysis
- Strong knowledge of composites, 3D printing, machining, injection moulding, and joining methods
- Familiarity with MIL standards and EASA/FAA certification pathways (SC-Light UAS, CS-23)
- Excellent communication skills - able to influence at executive and program levels
- Eligible for UK Security Clearance
Our Commitment to the Armed Forces Community
We are proud to hold the Bronze Award from the Defence Employer Recognition Scheme (ERS), reflecting our meaningful commitment and ongoing support for UK defence personnel. We believe in championing those who serve, those who have served, and their families. As part of this scheme, we are dedicated to providing an inclusive, supportive environment where members of the Armed Forces community can thrive and bring their invaluable skills to our team.
About Us
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.