Lead Software Engineer

About the role

Stark is developing software‑defined unmanned systems for the maritime domain. As Lead Software Engineer you will coordinate multi‑domain software development for autonomous surface vessels and ground systems, acting as the single point of contact for maritime software across the UK and Europe.

Key responsibilities

• Provide technical coordination and leadership across multiple product developments and road‑maps.
• Design and implement best‑practice software solutions for front‑end GUIs, middleware, embedded firmware and deep simulation.
• Conduct make‑vs‑buy trade‑off studies and negotiate with suppliers and subcontractors.
• Interface with systems and electrical teams to define hosting platforms from PCs to embedded devices.
• Support field testing and demonstrations with defence partners.

Required profile

• Proven experience leading complex integration and development programmes in defence or related sectors.
• Strong knowledge of software engineering standards (civilian, automotive, defence) and validation & verification techniques.
• Eligibility for UK Security Clearance and willingness to travel to South West England as required.

Required skills

• Linux application development
• Embedded systems and firmware development
• Real‑time control techniques
• Ethernet and Fieldbus communication protocols
• Simulation and Hardware‑in‑the‑Loop testing