Lead Software Engineer (All Gender)

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.

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.

About The Team

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

As the Lead Software Engineer, you will be responsible for leading complex multi-domain software developments for deployment on our growing fleet of autonomous vessels and ground systems.

Interfacing with design teams across the UK and Europe, you will be the single coordination and point of contact for all things Maritime Software. This includes directing the roadmap of existing products, leading new developments and interfacing to 3rd party subcontractors and suppliers.

You will need to scale between front-end GUIs, middleware, embedded systems, firmware and deep simulation technologies. Working at the forefront of modern technology: increasing levels of automation and pushing the frontiers when required.

Responsibilities

• Technical coordination and leadership across multiple product developments
• Best-practice design and implementation of emergent technology software solutions
• Process management and improvement on software engineering practices
• High-level conceptual design of new software products - application and embedded level
• Conduct make-vs-buy tradeoff studies, negotiating with suppliers and subcontractors
• Interfacing with Systems and Electrical teams to advise on hosting platforms: from PCs to embedded systems.
• Support and participate in regular field testing and demonstrations with defence partners.

Required Skills

• Proven experience in leading complex integration and development programmes
• Solid Software Engineering principles and best-practices
• Knowledge of Software Engineering standards (civilian/automotive/defence)
• Knowledge of multi-stage Validation & Verification techniques
• Knowledge of Simulation techniques and targets: from software-regression targets to Hardware-in-Loop platforms
• Understanding of communication pathways: Ethernet and Fieldbus
• Understanding of real-time control techniques and limitations
• Appreciation of both Application (Linux), Embedded and Firmware platforms.
• Excellent problem-solving ability in high-pressure, resource-constrained environments.
• Strong communication skills and capacity to work collaboratively in multi-disciplinary teams.
• MUST be eligible for UK Security Clearance and be able to travel to the South West England area when required

Equal Opportunity

At Stark Defence, we are committed to building a diverse, inclusive, and high-performing team. We operate in an industry where women, as well as other minority groups, are systematically under-represented. We actively encourage applications from candidates of all backgrounds and identities.

If you are excited about this role, we encourage you to apply even if you don't meet all the listed qualifications—ability and impact cannot be summarised in a few bullet points. We value unique perspectives, adaptability, and a drive to solve high-stakes challenges.

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.

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