Manufacturing Engineer – Automation & Process Development (all genders)

About Us STARK is a new kind of defence technology company revolutionising 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 - providing operators with a decisive edge in contested environments.

We are 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 As the Automation & Process Development Engineer, you are responsible for defining how our products are built. Your focus is on developing advanced production processes, identifying automation opportunities, and managing external equipment vendors. You will design the automated assembly cells, program automated components, and ensure external machine builders deliver high-performing equipment on time.

Responsibilities

Process Development: Formulate, test, and validate new manufacturing processes (e.g., automated joining, dispensing, laser welding, vision inspection) required to build next-generation products.

Automation Engineering: Identify opportunities to automate manual processes using robotics, custom tooling, vision systems, and PLCs. Sketch out concepts for automated cells and fixtures.

Vendor & Equipment Management: Draft functional specifications and Requests for Proposals (RFPs) for external automation vendors. Act as the technical lead during vendor selections.

Equipment Qualification (FAT/SAT): Drive Factory Acceptance Testing (FAT) at vendor facilities and Site Acceptance Testing (SAT) during installation. Ensure equipment achieves targeted cycle times and yields.

Commissioning: Own the deployment, programming adjustments, troubleshooting, and final hand-off of automated equipment to the production team.

Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree in Automation Engineering, Mechatronics, Mechanical/Electrical Engineering, or related.

Hands-on experience developing advanced manufacturing processes and integrating automation, robotics, and vision systems.

Demonstrated experience managing technical vendors/machine builders from specification through to equipment delivery and acceptance testing (FAT/SAT).

For further information please reach out to talent@stark-defence.com.