STARK is bringing its expertise in software-defined unmanned systems to the maritime domain. Traditional fleets alone cannot safeguard this vast, critical space. Unmanned Surface Vessels (USVs) extend naval reach at lower cost and reduced risk to personnel.
Our maritime family of systems is AI-enabled and built for reliable performance in the harshest seas, delivering NATO a fully integrated hardware–software capability for scalable ISR and strike operations
Your mission
Based in South Devon, the Senior USV Operations Engineer you will spearhead the testing, evaluation, and operational deployment of our Unmanned Surface Vessels. This is a pivotal role for a maritime professional who combines expert seamanship with a methodical, engineering-mindset. You will lead field trials, define test protocols, and validate system performance against rigorous safety and technical standards.
Responsibilities
Test & Evaluation (T&E): Design and execute comprehensive test plans for USV hardware, software, and autonomous behaviors. Lead Sea Acceptance Trials (SAT) and Factory Acceptance Trials (FAT).
Mission Leadership: Act as the primary Lead Operator/Mission Commander for complex uncrewed missions, managing both the USV and support craft (RHIBs).
Validation Reporting: Identify system bugs or performance gaps; provide detailed technical feedback and "lessons learned" reports to the engineering and software teams.
Launch & Recovery Leadership: Oversee complex LARS (Launch and Recovery Systems) operations, ensuring safety protocols are followed in challenging sea states.
Regulatory Compliance: Ensure all test activities comply with UK maritime regulations (MCA/COLREGs) and site-specific environmental permits.
Mentorship: Supervise and train Junior Operators, establishing "Standard Operating Procedures" (SOPs) for the fleet.
Vessel Management: Oversee high-level vessel husbandry, including propulsion troubleshooting, sensor calibration, and mission-readiness audits.
Stakeholder Liaison: Act as the technical point of contact for port authorities and external clients during trials and demonstrations.
Qualifications
Degree or HND in Marine Engineering, or a related technical field.
Minimum 5+ years in a professional maritime or offshore technology environment.
RYA Powerboat Level 2 & RYA VHF (SRC).
Extensive experience in operating USVs, ROVs, or similar complex maritime autonomous systems.
Proven experience in a T&V or QA environment—specifically writing test cases, executing trials, and analyzing telemetry data.
Expert knowledge of COLREGs, marine navigation, and small boat handling in offshore environments.
High level of computer literacy; experience with Linux, maritime ROS (Robot Operating System), or advanced GCS (Ground Control Station) software is a significant plus.
Ability to perform "on-water" fault finding and emergency repairs on electrical or mechanical systems.
Based in South Devon, this role requires a willingness to travel and work flexible hours as dictated by mission requirements
Must hold or be eligible for UK Security Clearance (SC).
Must hold a UK Passport and a Full UK Driving Licence
Highly Desirable
RYA Yachtmaster (Coastal or Offshore) or STCW Master 200gt.
STCW 95/2010 Basic Safety Training.
About STARK
STARK is a new kind of defence company, delivering the systems that Europe and NATO need now.
