Test Pilot – Acceptance / QA (All Genders)

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

You fly the standardized production acceptance flight profile for every newly built Gambit unit in our dedicated flight cages and test zones, verifying handling, sensor feeds, and failsafes before customer sign-off. You aren't just flying sorties; you are certifying that each individual serial-numbered aircraft is airworthy and ready for immediate deployment.

Responsibilities

• Acceptance Sortie Execution: Execute standardized end-of-line flight acceptance test cards on every newly manufactured aircraft in dedicated flight cages and test zones.

• Flight Dynamics & Failsafe Verification: Verify hover trim stability, sensor fusion health, gimbal video stream quality, and automated return-to-base failsafe behavior.

• Pre-Flight & Post-Flight Inspections: Perform thorough pre-flight and post-flight vehicle inspections, battery telemetry checks, motor temperature logging, and compass calibrations.

• Official Delivery Sign-Off: Log flight telemetry evidence, complete official acceptance documentation, and officially sign off on unit airworthiness certificates for delivery.

• Defect Feedback: Feed flight handling discrepancies, trim offsets, or assembly defects directly back to production technicians and quality engineers.

• Aviation Discipline: Follow pre-flight checklists and range safety protocols with unwavering aviation rigor.

Required Skills

• Proven track record piloting commercial or tactical multirotor / VTOL UAS (100+ flight hours).

• Relevant UAS Pilot Certifications (EU A1/A3, A2 Remote Pilot Certificate; STS / Specific Category authorization is an asset).

• Experience with Ground Control Station software (QGroundControl, Mission Planner).

• Solid understanding of UAS aerodynamics, battery health metrics, meteorology, and weather limits.

• Ability to perform basic field calibrations, compass offsets, and propeller balancing.

• Working proficiency in English; NATO citizen.

If you're interested in building the future of European Defence with us, and you see yourself reflected on the description above, please send us your CV in English. We're looking forward to meeting you!

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.