Job Description, Responsibilities & Requirements
About the Position
UAV Test Pilot (all genders)
Location: Munich, DE
Employment Type: Full-time, Permanent
About Us
STARK is a pioneering defence technology company dedicated to revolutionizing the deployment of autonomous systems across various domains. We design, develop, and manufacture high-performance unmanned systems that are software-defined, mass-scalable, and cost-effective. Our mission is to provide NATO Allies and their partners with a decisive technological edge in highly contested environments.
Your Mission
As a UAV Test Pilot at STARK, you will be the critical link between digital design and physical reality. You will work closely with Flight Test Engineers to plan, execute, and report on flight tests for experimental, developmental, and modified production systems. Your role will involve pushing our airframes to their limits to validate performance, ensure compliance with international standards, and prove the safety of our designs.
Responsibilities
Flight Operations & Execution
- Conduct remote piloting of unmanned aircraft during development and validation campaigns, often in full-manual mode to test the raw flight envelope.
- Execute flight tests with precision according to the flight test program.
- Monitor live telemetry and onboard video streams, maintaining total situational awareness of aircraft health and test status.
- Coordinate seamlessly with GCS operators, observers, and engineers in a high-pressure team environment.
Test Planning & Preparation
- Contribute operational expertise to test site selection, flight profiles, hazard analysis, and weather constraints.
- Prepare UAV systems, including pre-flight configuration, control link verification, and functional system checks.
- Assist with the integration and ground verification of flight-critical hardware and software.
Safety, Regulatory & Documentation
- Act as the final authority on safety for each sortie, conducting risk assessments and responding to anomalies or emergency situations.
- Maintain airspace deconfliction in accordance with SORA and EASA regulatory requirements.
- Participate in briefings/debriefings, providing structured, technical feedback on aircraft behavior.
- Support licensing and documentation to build long-term test capabilities across Germany and Europe.
Your First 12 Months
| Timeframe | Focus |
|---|---|
| Month 0–1: Onboarding | Master the STARK tech stack. Get familiar with our current airframes, GCS software, and safety protocols. Complete local site inductions and shadow existing flight operations. |
| Month 1–3: Integration | Begin executing standard test cards. Support the engineering team in ground-testing new components and take your first "stick time" with experimental prototypes. |
| Month 3–6: Mission Lead | Lead flight test campaigns for specific subsystem validations. Contribute significantly to SORA applications and expand our operational footprint in Europe. |
| Month 6–12: Advanced Testing | Execute complex BVLOS and high-performance envelopes. Start transitioning toward Flight Test Engineering (FTE) tasks, including data analysis and test director responsibilities. |
Qualifications
Experience & Certifications
- Valid EU A1/A3 and A2 Remote Pilot Certificates (EASA).
- Valid radio operator certificate (e.g., BZF) or the ability to obtain one immediately.
- Demonstrable manual piloting skills of high-performance fixed-wing and multirotor UAVs (precision take-offs, landings, and maneuvering in tight spots).
- Experience with professional GCS software, mission planning tools, and telemetry monitoring.
- Must be a citizen of a NATO member state (due to export control and security regulations).
Technical Mindset
- Familiarity with test operations under BVLOS and experimental conditions.
- Skilled in maintaining situational awareness during long, complex multi-aircraft operations.
- A problem-solving mindset-you don’t just report a bug; you help the engineers find the "why."
- Excellent written and verbal communication in English.
Mindset & Style
- Disciplined: You follow test cards to the letter but stay agile when a plan changes last minute.
- Reliable: High attention to detail with a "safety-first" internal compass.
- Startup Ready: You thrive in a fast-paced environment where your role evolves as the company grows.
Nice to Have
- Previous experience as a Flight Test Engineer or holding a PPL/CPL/ATPL.
- Hands-on experience tuning Ardupilot or PX4 autopilot systems.
- Background in military UAV operations or defense contracting.
Why STARK
- Shape the Future: A unique opportunity to influence the trajectory of autonomous flight tech.
- Fast-Paced Growth: Flat hierarchies and a decision-heavy environment-no red tape, just results.
- The Best Tools: Access to cutting-edge drone hardware and dedicated test facilities.
- Career Path: Development pathway toward Senior Flight Test Engineer or Test Director roles.
- Competitive Package: Salary that reflects your value to the mission.
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.