Senior Test Rig & Ground Test Engineer (UAV Loitering Munitions) (all genders)

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.

Were focused on delivering deployable high-performance a time of rising threats STARK is bolstering the technological edge of NATO Allies and their Partners to deter aggression and defend Europe.

As aSenior Test Rig & Ground Test Engineer you will establish and own the ground testing capability behind our next-generation loitering munition systems. Your mission is to design plan and deliver the test rigs and ground test infrastructure that enable us to validate critical subsystems and accelerate development into production.

You will translate system requirements into robust mechanical test stand concepts produce detailed designs and work closely with production engineers and mechanics to manufacture assemble and commission them. You will be the technical owner of these rigs - ensuring they are safe fit-for-purpose and capable of delivering high-quality test data.

This role blendsdeep engineering designhands-on test operations andcross-functional technical leadership. Youll collaborate with systems engineering electronics software and manufacturing to ensure our loitering munition meets performance reliability and military qualification standards (including relevant STANAGs).

Your work will directly shape how fast and how confidently we can bring world-class defence systems into the hands of operators.

Test Rig Design & Ownership

• Design and architectground test rigsfor UAV and munition subsystems (e.g. airframe launcher interface control surfaces propulsion structural elements).

• Defineload paths mechanical interfaces rig functionality actuation concepts and safety requirements.

• Ensure rigs meet requiredstiffness load capacity repeatability and safety standards.

Test Rig Manufacturing & Commissioning

• Work closely with production engineers machinists and mechanical technicians tomanufacture and assemble rigs according to your design.

• Provide build oversight clarify design intent support manufacturability adjustments and ensure correct setup on the shop floor.

• Lead rig commissioning functional checkouts load verification and readiness reviews.

Ground Testing Operations

• Plan and executeground test campaigns including structural functional environmental and subsystem tests.

• Define and implementinstrumentation and data acquisition(strain gauges load cells accelerometers DAQ systems).

• Collaborate with electronics and software teams to integrate rigs intoHIL/SIL test environmentswhen required.

• Analyze test results provide clear reporting and propose corrective actions or design improvements.

Standards Safety & Documentation

• Align all test activities with relevantmilitary qualification standards(STANAGs environmental safety & arming transport/storage).

• Create rigorous test procedures risk assessments and safety documentation.

• Maintain full traceability between system requirements rig capabilities and test outcomes.

Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Work closely with system engineers mechanical designers manufacturing electronics and software to ensure test coverage aligns with program needs.

• Drive clarity on what needs to be tested why and how.

• Serve as the internal authority for all matters related to ground test infrastructure.

Your First 12 Months:

Experience

• 515 years in aerospace mechanical test engineering structural testing ground test rig design or similar fields.

• Experience designing complex mechanical test rigs or subsystems (aerospace defence UAVs robotics or automotive testing).

Technical Background

• Strong mechanical design foundation: CAD (CATIA NX SolidWorks) load calculation structural design and fixture/rig architecture.

• Experience in instrumentation and DAQ systems (ALTAIR Suite).

• Familiarity withHIL/SIL conceptsand ability to integrate mechanical rigs with electronics and software environments.

• Knowledge ofmilitary or aerospace qualification standards STANAG familiarity is a strong plus.

• Understanding of UAV or munition architecture is beneficial; willingness to learn is essential.

Mindset & Working Style

• Highly hands-on in testing and rig commissioning even if you dont machine parts yourself.

• Strong ownership mentality: you design you drive you deliver.

• Structured safety-minded and rigorous in documentation.

• Strong communicator who can explain complex technical topics clearly.

• Mission-driven pragmatic with a bias for fast iteration and practical solutions.

Bonus Skills

• FEA experience for rig stiffness/load checks.

• Background in defence UAVs or munition systems.

• Exposure to environmental testing shock/vibration or qualification labs.

Why STARK:

• Build the entire test rig and ground test capability for one of Europes most advanced defence systems.

• Work at the intersection of aerospace engineering hardware testing and defence innovation.

• Collaborate with exceptional engineering teams shaping the future of unmanned systems.

• Be part of a mission that truly matters: strengthening Europes defence and technological edge.