Principal​/Senior Mechanical Design Engineer

STARK is a new kind of defence technology company revolutionizing the way autonomous systems are deployed across multiple domains. We design, develop and manufacture high performance unmanned systems that are software-defined, mass-scalable, and cost effective. This provides our operators with a decisive edge in highly contested environments.

We’re focused on delivering deployable, high-performance systems - not future promises. In a time of rising threats, STARK is bolstering the technological edge of NATO Allies and their Partners to deter aggression and defend Europe - today.

Lead the architecture, design, and integration of high-reliability electrical systems for our next-generation Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs). In this role, you will own the electrical lifecycle from concept to flight line, designing robust power distribution networks, harness architectures, and avionics integration capable of meeting demanding flight profiles and operational environments.

• Own the high- and low-voltage electrical system implementation for long-endurance fixed-wing aircraft, including power distribution, battery management systems (BMS), power conversion, and payload integration.
• Design complex, lightweight, and flight-ready wiring harnesses, schematics, and interconnect diagrams using industry-standard CAD suites (e.g., Altium, Capital, E3.series, or Solid Works Electrical).
• Conduct power budget calculations, circuit protection analysis, wire sizing, thermal load modeling, and EMI/EMC mitigation strategies to ensure system stability and regulatory compliance.
• Collaborate closely with mechanical, embedded software, and flight test engineers to integrate avionics, flight control surfaces, propulsion systems, and sensors into the airframe.
• Define and execute test procedures for bench testing, hardware-in-the-loop (HITL) integration, Environmental Stress Screening (ESS), and ground/flight testing.
• Author engineering documentation, ICIDs, and compliance artifacts aligned with aerospace standards (e.g., DO-160, MIL-STD-810, MIL-STD-461, or equivalent civil UAV standards).
• Provide technical guidance and design reviews for junior and mid-level electrical engineers.

• Mechanical design experience, in ideally in aerospace / UAV / autonomous systems
• Proven record of taking structures from concept through verification to high rate production (wing, fuselage, empennage)
• Expert in Solid Works (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 exec and program level
• Eligible for UK Security Clearance

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. At our core, 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.