Mechanical Design Engineer (All Genders) in Swindon

About STARK

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.

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.

Role Overview

As a Mechanical Design Engineer at STARK you will be a key contributor to the mechanical architecture of our next‑generation UAV platforms.

This isn’t a role for someone who wants to stay behind a desk; you will take subsystems from initial concept through to high‑rate production, working closely with our manufacturing facilities.

You will be the bridge between ambitious design and reality, diving deep into CAD and Design for Manufacture (DFM).

Your work will be within an agile, cross‑functional team to ensure our airframes are robust, cost‑effective, and ready for the field.

You will take ownership of major mechanical assemblies and payload integrations for current and future UAV platforms, optimise designs for high‑rate production, and ensure we can scale from prototype to hundreds of units without compromising quality.

Key Responsibilities

• Apply best practices in parametric modeling, GD&T, and tolerance stack‑up analysis to achieve first‑time‑right assembly.
• Drive decisions on airframe materials, structural layouts, and manufacturing processes (composites, additive manufacturing, etc.).
• Partner with Stress, Flight Test, and Systems teams to ensure structural integrity and successful flight trials.
• Be hands‑on with CAD, rapid prototyping, and shop‑floor troubleshooting to iterate designs at pace.

Qualifications

• Professional experience in mechanical design, ideally within aerospace, UAVs, automotive, or autonomous systems.
• Proven track record of taking parts or structures from a sketch through to verification and into production.
• Highly proficient in Solid Works (CATIA experience is also beneficial).
• Strong knowledge of composites, 3D printing, machining, and injection moulding.
• Familiarity with (or a desire to learn) MIL standards and certification pathways.
• Ability to explain complex technical trade‑offs to both engineering peers and program leadership.
• Must be eligible for UK Security Clearance.
• 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.

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