RPAS Deployment Operator / UAV Pilot

Stark Defence; Swindon; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading defense technology company in Swindon seeks an experienced RPAS Operator to enhance team performance in remotely piloted aviation. Responsibilities include mission planning, flight operations, and data collection. Candidates must possess valid RPAS certifications, demonstrate excellent situational awareness, and maintain compliance with aviation regulations. If you are skilled at troubleshooting RPAS systems and fit into a collaborative team, apply today for this opportunity to impact the future of defense technology.

Benefits

Equal-opportunity employer

Inclusive workplace

Qualifications

• Valid certification and qualifications for RPAS operations.
• Proven experience in conducting RPAS missions.
• Ability to make sound judgments in dynamic conditions.

Responsibilities

• Assess flight routes and weather conditions for safe operations.
• Conduct pre-flight checks and monitor system health.
• Capture and interpret imagery or sensor data.

Skills

Operational background in RPAS missions

Excellent situational awareness

Strong communication skills

Technical competence in RPAS systems

Flexibility to adapt to environments

Job description

About Us

STARK is a defense technology company revolutionizing 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.

Permanent employee, Full‑time
Swindon

Your mission

As an RPAS Operator you will become a key member of a dynamic, collaborative team at the forefront of remotely piloted aviation systems. We’re looking for individuals with proven experience in all aspects of operating RPAS within the Specific Category, demonstrating precision, reliability, and a deep understanding of system capabilities. If you thrive in a high‑performance environment where teamwork drives success and innovation, this is your opportunity to make an impact.

Responsibilities

• Mission Planning: Assessing flight routes, weather conditions, and airspace restrictions to ensure safe and efficient operations.
• Flight Operations: Conducting pre‑flight checks, controlling the RPAS during missions, and monitoring system health throughout.
• Data Collection & Analysis: Capturing imagery or sensor data, then processing and interpreting the results to meet mission goals.
• Maintenance & Troubleshooting: Performing routine inspections and resolving technical issues to keep systems mission‑ready.
• Compliance & Safety: Adhering to aviation regulations both CAA and EASA and maintaining detailed logs and reports to ensure operational integrity.

Qualifications

• Valid certification and qualifications appropriate to the RPAS category operated, GVC and up to RPC‑L4 when available.
• Proven experience conducting RPAS missions, with a strong operational background.
• Excellent situational awareness and ability to make sound judgments in dynamic conditions.
• Technical competence in RPAS systems, including troubleshooting and sensor data interpretation.
• Strong communication skills and ability to work effectively within a team.
• High standard of professionalism, with a commitment to compliance, safety, and accurate record‑keeping.
• Flexibility to adapt to different environments and mission profiles.
• Must be eligible for UK Security Clearance.

About the company

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, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, or any other characteristic protected by law. Due to the nature of our work in the defense sector, candidates must be eligible to obtain and maintain the appropriate security clearance required for the position.

Apply for this job

If you are interested, please submit your application via our online form. We look forward to hearing from you! Thank you for your interest in STARK.