Aerodynamics 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 aerodynamic performance of the Gambit vehicle across all flight regimes—vertical takeoff, hover in turbulent gust environments, forward transition, and high-speed strike dive. You aren't just generating CFD meshes; you are shaping the airframe and prop-rotor interactions that maximize flight time and maintain stability in extreme weather.

Responsibilities

• CFD Simulations: Conduct Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) simulations (RANS, URANS, DES) to analyze airframe drag, propeller-fuselage aerodynamic interactions, and prop-wash flow fields.
• Aero Surface Optimization: Optimize fuselage surface contours, wing geometries, and rotor arm cross-sections to minimize aerodynamic drag during cruise and maximize hover stability in gusty winds.
• Autopilot Aerodynamic Coeffs: Extract stability derivatives and aerodynamic coefficients from CFD models to feed flight simulation baselines and autopilot tuning algorithms.
• Strike Dive Aero Analysis: Model and optimize high-speed dive dynamics specifically for the Strike variant, preventing control reversal or aerodynamic flutter.
• Crosswind Stability: Analyze turbulence rejection and vehicle attitude authority under crosswind conditions.
• Test Correlation: Correlate aerodynamic simulation models with wind-tunnel measurements and flight-test telemetry.

Required Skills

• 2–5 years of experience in aerodynamic analysis and CFD for UAS, rotorcraft, or fixed-wing aircraft.
• Master’s or PhD in Aerospace Engineering, Fluid Dynamics, or equivalent.
• High proficiency in CFD solvers (OpenFOAM, Ansys Fluent, Star-CCM+, or Star-CCM).
• Strong understanding of low-Reynolds-number aerodynamics, rotor-blade aerodynamics, and boundary-layer physics.
• Scripting and data post-processing proficiency in Python (NumPy, SciPy) or MATLAB.
• 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.