Powertrain Engineer (All Genders)

At Stark, we forge the future of European and national security through cutting-edge, AI-driven technology and unmatched engineering precision. As a premier defence technology company, our mission is clear: to equip NATO Allies and their partners  with next-generation autonomous defence platforms and advanced AI-driven software built to perform in the world’s most demanding environments.

We believe that true security stems from relentless innovation. By combining elite engineering talent with agile technology and an AI-native operational culture, Stark turns complex defence challenges into field-tested, multi-domain solutions.

Why Join Us?

• The software and systems you work on directly protect personnel and defend European and national sovereignty.

• You will work alongside industry-leading minds on autonomous systems, advanced propulsion, and secure cyber platforms.

• We foster a fast-paced, collaborative environment where bold ideas are supported by serious R&D backing.

Your Mission

You own the propulsion powertrain subsystem—electric motors, electronic speed controllers (ESCs), carbon propellers, and battery packs—maximizing vehicle efficiency, hover endurance, and thermal margins. You aren't just selecting a motor; you are engineering the high-efficiency propulsion system that delivers maximum payload capacity and flight range across extreme atmospheric conditions.

Responsibilities

• Propulsion Characterization: Characterize, model, and optimize the electric propulsion system, including brushless motors, FOC speed controllers, carbon propellers, and battery packs.

• Dynamometer Testing: Operate automated dynamometer thrust stands to map thrust, electrical power, thermal dissipation, RPM response, and acoustic emissions across dynamic flight profiles.

• Timing & Efficiency Optimization: Optimize motor timing and battery discharge profiles to maximize hover efficiency while preserving safe component thermal limits.

• Battery Pack Architecture: Define battery pack configurations, continuous/peak discharge limits, cell balancing, and thermal management strategies.

• Aerodynamic & Structural Integration: Collaborate with aerodynamics and structure teams to optimize prop-wash integration and arm structural resonance.

• High-Speed Dive Thermal Validation: Guarantee motor and ESC thermal safety and commutation stability during 120 km/h high-speed strike dives.

Required Skills

• 2–5 years of experience in electric propulsion, drivetrain engineering, or power systems for UAS, eVTOL, or e-mobility.

• Degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Mechatronics, or equivalent.

• Hands-on experience operating thrust stands, torque sensors, power analyzers, and thermal imaging systems.

• Deep knowledge of brushless DC (BLDC) / PMSM motors, FOC (Field Oriented Control) ESC firmware, and battery chemistry.

• Data analysis proficiency in Python (NumPy, Pandas, SciPy, Matplotlib) or MATLAB for propulsion map modeling.

• Working proficiency in English; NATO citizen.

Equal Opportunity:

At Stark Defence, we are committed to building a diverse, inclusive, and high-performing team. We operate in an industry where women, as well as other minority groups, are systematically under-represented. We actively encourage applications from candidates of all backgrounds and identities.

If you are excited about this role, we encourage you to apply even if you don't meet all the listed qualifications—ability and impact cannot be summarised in a few bullet points. We value unique perspectives, adaptability, and a drive to solve high-stakes challenges.

Security Clearance:

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.