Head of R&D

Responsibilities

• Drive the R&D roadmap by owning the execution of product strategy across hardware and software development streams
• Define, align, and cascade strategic OKRs to engineering teams to ensure measurable outcomes
• Oversee system architecture and approve key design decisions across embedded systems, electronics, mechanics, and software
• Act as the primary cross-functional bridge between Ukrainian R&D teams and European counterparts
• Partner with Manufacturing, QA, and Delivery teams to ensure design-for-production readiness
• Lead and inspire a multidisciplinary team of electronics, mechanics, embedded, and software engineers
• Optimize workflows using agile project tracking and robust reporting routines

Requirements

• 7+ years of experience in engineering or R&D leadership within UAVs, robotics, aerospace, or complex mechatronic systems
• Deep understanding of the principles, architecture, and technologies of unmanned/autonomous systems
• Proven experience leading multidisciplinary HW/SW engineering teams and managing complex R&D budgets
• Strong experience with OKR frameworks and tracking milestones from concept to deployment
• Fluent or Upper-Intermediate English proficiency for continuous synchronization with European stakeholders
• Ability to obtain and maintain necessary security clearances for the defense sector

Preferred Qualifications

• Direct background in Defense Tech or advanced aerospace projects
• Experience bringing prototypes into low-rate initial production (LRIP)
• Knowledge of certification, compliance, and testing standards for military or industrial UAVs

About the Company

STARK is a European defence technology company founded in 2023, specializing in the development and production of advanced UAV systems for modern military operations. Our flagship platform, Virtus, is a next-generation VTOL loitering munition system that combines precision, autonomy, and reliability to deliver tactical superiority on the battlefield.