Chief Engineer - Defence (all genders)

About the role

STARK Defence is building the next generation of autonomous defence systems for modern warfare. We develop and manufacture high-performance unmanned systems that are software-defined, rapidly deployable, and scalable for mass production. Our mission is clear: deliver reliable, combat-ready capabilities that strengthen the technological advantage of NATO Allies and their partners. We focus on real-world deployment, operational impact, and speed - not theoretical concepts or long-term promises. As Europe faces an increasingly complex security environment, STARK is helping redefine sovereign defence technology with systems designed for contested and highly dynamic operational environments. You will join a highly multidisciplinary engineering organisation working across airframes, propulsion, avionics, autonomy, payload integration, and flight systems. The team operates in a fast-paced, mission-driven environment with a strong focus on technical excellence, rapid iteration, and operational reliability. This role sits at the centre of the programme and requires close collaboration with engineering leadership, production, flight testing, and product teams to ensure the successful delivery of complex aerospace systems. As Chief Systems Engineer, you will serve as the technical authority across the programme and ensure overall system integrity, performance, and technical alignment throughout the full development lifecycle. You will drive systems engineering strategy, oversee cross-functional integration, and ensure that all engineering disciplines operate against a unified technical vision and architecture. Own and govern the overall system architecture and integration strategy across all subsystems Define and maintain technical baselines, configuration control processes, and engineering standards Lead system-level trade studies, technical reviews, risk assessments, and root-cause investigations Drive cross-functional alignment between mechanical, avionics, propulsion, autonomy, payload, and flight systems teams Ensure system performance, reliability, safety, and scalability requirements are achieved Support verification, validation, qualification, and certification activities where applicable Identify technical risks early and implement mitigation strategies across the programme lifecycle Act as the senior technical escalation point for complex engineering challenges Mentor engineering teams and promote systems engineering best practices across the organisation Degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Systems Engineering, or a related discipline Extensive experience in aircraft, UAV, aerospace, or defence systems engineering Strong expertise in systems architecture, integration, verification, and technical governance Deep understanding of aerospace development standards, configuration management, and certification pathways Proven ability to lead multidisciplinary engineering programmes in complex environments Strong analytical thinking, decision-making, and communication skills Experience working in high-growth, fast-paced engineering organisations is highly desirable Defence or autonomous systems experience is considered a strong advantage Recruiting Contact for this role: Sally Grütte-Pad, Interim Lead TA Partner via talent@stark-defence.com

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