At a Glance
- Tasks: Design and develop cutting-edge UAV platforms from concept to production.
- Company: STARK, a revolutionary defence technology company focused on autonomous systems.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, inclusive culture, and opportunities for hands-on experience.
- Other info: Dynamic environment with opportunities for career growth and innovation.
- Why this job: Join a mission-driven team making a real impact in defence technology.
- Qualifications: Experience in mechanical design, especially in aerospace or autonomous systems.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 £ per year.
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.
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’ll be the bridge between ambitious design and reality, diving deep into CAD and Design for Manufacture (DFM). You will work within an agile, cross-functional team to ensure our airframes are robust, cost-effective, and ready for the field.
Responsibilities
- Design & Execute: Take ownership of major mechanical assemblies and payload integrations for current and future UAV platforms.
- DFM Focus: Optimise designs for high-rate production, ensuring we can scale from prototype to hundreds of units without compromising quality.
- Technical Rigor: Apply best practices in parametric modeling, GD&T, and tolerance stack-up analysis to ensure "first-time-right" assembly.
- Material Innovation: Drive decisions on airframe materials, structural layouts, and manufacturing processes (composites, additive, etc.).
- Cross-Functional Collaboration: Partner with Stress, Flight Test, and Systems teams to ensure structural integrity and successful flight trials.
- Prototyping: Be hands-on with CAD, rapid prototyping, and shop-floor troubleshooting to iterate designs at pace.
Qualifications
- Experience: Professional experience in mechanical design, ideally within aerospace, UAVs, automotive, or autonomous systems.
- Production Mindset: A proven track record of taking parts or structures from a sketch through to verification and into production.
- CAD Expert: Highly proficient in SolidWorks (CATIA experience is also beneficial).
- Technical Breadth: Strong knowledge of composites, 3D printing, machining, and injection molding.
- Standard Aware: Familiarity with (or a desire to learn) MIL standards and certification pathways.
- Communication: Ability to explain complex technical trade-offs to both engineering peers and program leadership.
- Security: Must be eligible for UK Security Clearance.
About us
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.
We are an equal-opportunity employer committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, colour, religion, sex, national origin, disability, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.
Mechanical Design Engineer employer: Stark Co
STARK is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment where innovation meets purpose in the defence technology sector. As a Lead Software Engineer in Maritime, you will not only lead a talented team but also engage in hands-on development, ensuring your contributions directly impact the future of autonomous systems. With a commitment to employee growth, a culture of inclusivity, and the opportunity to work on cutting-edge technology in a critical domain, STARK provides a rewarding career path for those seeking meaningful work.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Mechanical Design Engineer
✨Get Your Hands Dirty at Engineering Events
Join local engineering meetups or industry conferences related to mechanical engineering. Whether it's a workshop or a career fair, these events are goldmines for networking and getting a foot in the door. Plus, you can showcase your passion and enthusiasm directly to potential employers like Stark Co.
✨Connect with Professors & Peers
Tap into your university’s resources—professors often have connections in the industry. Don’t be shy to ask about potential openings or recommendations. Your classmates might also know of companies hiring. Often, it’s who you know that gets you in front of the right people!
✨Highlight Your Projects and Practical Experience
When you land those interviews, make sure to talk about your hands-on projects or internships. Whether it's a design project or hands-on experience with CAD software, specific examples will make you stand out. Companies like Stark Co love to hear about practical applications of your skills.
✨Apply Directly on Company Websites
Check out the careers page of Stark Co and apply directly through there. It shows initiative and interest in their specific values. Plus, you'll often find openings that aren't advertised on job boards, giving you a better chance to land that full-time gig!
We think you need these skills to ace Mechanical Design Engineer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Technical Expertise:In mechanical engineering, it’s vital to highlight your technical skills and projects. Make sure to include relevant software proficiency (like CAD tools) in your CV. If you've worked on specific engineering projects, detail your key contributions — we want to see how you’ve applied your skills in a practical setting!
Focus on Problem-Solving Examples:Employers in mechanical engineering love to see how you handle challenges. Use your cover letter to share specific instances where you’ve solved a complex problem or improved a design. This will show us you're not just knowledgeable but also capable of applying that knowledge effectively.
Highlight Relevant Certifications:Include any relevant certifications or training that can set you apart from the competition. Whether it's coursework from your degree, a recognised certification, or extra training in new technologies, we love to see candidates who continuously improve their skill set. This tells us you're serious about your career in engineering!
Tailor Your CV for the Role:Don’t forget to customise your CV for Stark Co and the Mechanical Design Engineer role specifically. Pull examples from your experience that align with the job description — it shows us you've done your research and are genuinely interested in becoming part of the team. We recommend applying through our website to ensure your application gets to the right people!
How to prepare for a job interview at Stark Co
✨Brush Up on Your CAD Skills
Since mechanical engineering often involves design processes, be ready to showcase your proficiency in CAD software like SolidWorks or AutoCAD. Bring along a digital portfolio or even some sketches that demonstrate your design capabilities — it’s a great way to show what you can bring to the table at Stark Co.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect technical questions that test your understanding of engineering principles and problem-solving skills. You might get hypothetical scenarios where you need to design a component or troubleshoot a mechanical system. Practising these types of questions will give you the confidence to tackle whatever comes your way!
✨Show Your Team Spirit
As a full-time mechanical engineer, collaboration is key! Be ready to share examples of past team projects or any experiences where you contributed to solving a complex problem with others. Demonstrating your ability to work in a team will resonate well with the interviewers at Stark Co.
✨Discuss Your Future Goals
Since this is a full-time position, your long-term vision is important. Be open about your career aspirations, whether it’s mastering a specific tool or leading projects. This shows that you're committed not just to learning but also to growing with Stark Co, making you a more appealing candidate.
