Autopilot Engineer (Control) - (all genders)
WFA Digital Insight
Stark’s Autopilot Engineer sits at the intersection of firmware development and autonomous‑systems integration, a niche that demands both deep control‑theory knowledge and hands‑on coding skill. The job goes beyond routine firmware tweaks: engineers must align low‑level PX4 code with higher‑level AI modules, and validate the whole stack through software‑in‑the‑loop and hardware‑in‑the‑loop simulations. The requirement for UK security clearance and a few days on‑site in Southwest England underscores the sensitivity of the work, while the focus on MAVLink expertise narrows the talent pool to those already fluent in the communication backbone of many unmanned vehicles. Candidates should be ready to move quickly between debugging, performance optimisation and cross‑team problem solving.
Job Description
About Us STARK is a defense technology company revolutionising the way autonomous systems are deployed across multiple domains. We design, develop and manufacture high performance unmanned vehicles that are software-defined, mass-scalable, and cost effective – giving NATO and its allies a decisive edge in the most 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. ]]> Your mission Responsibilities Optimise/modify/program autopilot firmware to process the commands of our autonomous system Make it compatible with our AI systems Testing, debugging both autopilot and its integration into the controller. Integrating it into our simulation via software-in-the-loop / hardware-in-the-loop. Help solve upcoming challenges within the team Applying problem solving skills to contribute to achieving team goals ]]> Qualifications Bachelor´s or Master´s degree in Robotics, software engineering, computer science, or similar relevant areas of expertise +3 to 6 years of experience working in similar roles within this industry Expert in MAVlink protocol Good knowledge of PX4 firmware Expert in C++ and Python Excellent understanding of microcontrollers for real time operating systems Understanding of control systems Excellent team player Applicants MUST eligible for UK Security Clearance and willing to be in the South West England area 2-3 days per week ]]>
How to Stand Out
- Brush up on MAVLink message definitions and practice customizing them in a PX4 sandbox.
- Prepare a short portfolio of firmware projects that include unit tests and performance benchmarks.
- Highlight any experience with HIL or SITL setups; bring logs or screenshots to the interview.
- Emphasise your ability to obtain UK Security Clearance and discuss any prior clearance you hold.
- Expect scenario‑based questions that probe your debugging process on real‑time microcontrollers.
- Tailor your CV to showcase C++ and Python contributions separately, noting libraries or frameworks used.
- Research Stark’s recent unmanned‑vehicle programmes to demonstrate genuine interest during the conversation.
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