Software Integration & Test Engineer (Maritime Autonomy) (all genders)

About Us

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.

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.

About the team

As a Software Integration & Test Engineer, you will play a key role in bringing together complex software systems that power our next generation of autonomous maritime platforms. Working across multiple engineering disciplines, you will integrate, configure, validate, and test software components on prototype vessels and mission systems, ensuring they perform reliably in demanding real-world environments.

Your mission

This is a hands-on role for someone who enjoys solving complex integration challenges, thrives in fast-paced engineering environments, and wants to see their work tested where it truly matters - at sea.

Responsibilities

• Integrate internally developed and third-party software onto autonomous maritime platforms and prototype vessels.
• Configure, deploy and validate software across Linux-based systems.
• Plan and execute system integration and end-to-end testing activities.
• Support sea trials by diagnosing software and system-level issues in collaboration with engineering teams.
• Investigate defects, reproduce issues and coordinate fixes across software disciplines.
• Develop scripts and tooling to improve deployment, testing and system configuration.
• Work closely with Software, Robotics, Autonomy, Systems and Platform Engineers to ensure reliable software releases.
• Maintain high engineering standards, documentation and version control throughout the integration lifecycle.

Qualifications

• Degree (or equivalent qualification) in Software Engineering, Computer Science or a related discipline.
• Strong understanding of Linux operating systems and system configuration.
• Experience with scripting (Python, Bash or similar).
• Familiarity with Git or other version control systems.
• Understanding of software engineering principles, software testing and debugging.
• Strong analytical mindset with excellent attention to detail.
• Comfortable working across multiple engineering teams simultaneously.
• Excellent communication skills and a collaborative, hands-on approach.
• Previous experience with software integration, embedded systems or robotics is beneficial but not essential.
• travel may be required

Nice to have

• Experience with autonomous systems, robotics or unmanned vehicles.
• Familiarity with networking, distributed systems or middleware.
• Exposure to hardware/software integration.
• Experience supporting field trials or operational testing.
• Knowledge of CI/CD pipelines and automated testing frameworks.

Our Commitment to the Armed Forces Community

We are proud to hold the Bronze Award from the Defence Employer Recognition Scheme (ERS), reflecting our meaningful commitment and ongoing support for UK defence personnel. At our core, we believe in championing those who serve, those who have served, and their families. As part of this scheme, we are dedicated to providing an inclusive, supportive environment where members of the Armed Forces community can thrive and bring their invaluable skills to our team.

​For more ​details please reach out to
Sally Grütte-Pad, Interim Lead TA Partner via talent@stark-defence.com