Senior USV Operations Engineer

Stark

Remote, UK Remote permanent

Posted: April 2, 2026

Required Skills

Job Description

About Us:
STARK is bringing its expertise in software-defined unmanned systems to the maritime domain. Traditional fleets alone cannot safeguard this vast, critical space. Unmanned Surface Vessels (USVs) extend naval reach at lower cost and reduced risk to personnel.

Our maritime family of systems is AI-enabled and built for reliable performance in the harshest seas, delivering NATO a fully integrated hardware–software capability for scalable ISR and strike operations

Your mission:
Based in South Devon, the Senior USV Operations Engineer you will spearhead the testing, evaluation, and operational deployment of our Unmanned Surface Vessels. This is a pivotal role for a maritime professional who combines expert seamanship with a methodical, engineering-mindset. You will lead field trials, define test protocols, and validate system performance against rigorous safety and technical standards.

Responsibilities:
• Test & Evaluation (T&E): Design and execute comprehensive test plans for USV hardware, software, and autonomous behaviors. Lead Sea Acceptance Trials (SAT) and Factory Acceptance Trials (FAT).
• Mission Leadership: Act as the primary Lead Operator/Mission Commander for complex uncrewed missions, managing both the USV and support craft (RHIBs).
• Validation Reporting: Identify system bugs or performance gaps; provide detailed technical feedback and "lessons learned" reports to the engineering and software teams.
• Launch & Recovery Leadership: Oversee complex LARS (Launch and Recovery Systems) operations, ensuring safety protocols are followed in challenging sea states.
• Regulatory Compliance: Ensure all test activities comply with UK maritime regulations (MCA/COLREGs) and site-specific environmental permits.
• Mentorship: Supervise and train Junior Operators, establishing "Standard Operating Procedures" (SOPs) for the fleet.
• Vessel Management: Oversee high-level vessel husbandry, including propulsion troubleshooting, sensor calibration, and mission-readiness audits.
• Stakeholder Liaison: Act as the technical point of contact for port authorities and external clients during trials and demonstrations.

Qualifications:
• Degree or HND in Marine Engineering, or a related technical field.
• Minimum 5+ years in a professional maritime or offshore technology environment.
• RYA Powerboat Level 2 & RYA VHF (SRC).
• Extensive experience in operating USVs, ROVs, or similar complex maritime autonomous systems.
• Proven experience in a T&V or QA environment—specifically writing test cases, executing trials, and analyzing telemetry data.
• Expert knowledge of COLREGs, marine navigation, and small boat handling in offshore environments.
• High level of computer literacy; experience with Linux, maritime ROS (Robot Operating System), or advanced GCS (Ground Control Station) software is a significant plus.
• Ability to perform "on-water" fault finding and emergency repairs on electrical or mechanical systems.
• Based in South Devon, this role requires a willingness to travel and work flexible hours as dictated by mission requirements
• Must hold or be eligible for UK Security Clearance (SC).
• Must hold a UK Passport and a Full UK Driving Licence
•

Highly Desirable

• RYA Yachtmaster (Coastal or Offshore) or STCW Master 200gt.
• STCW 95/2010 Basic Safety Training.

Why Apply Through MisuJob?

AI-Powered Job Matching: MisuJob uses advanced artificial intelligence to analyze your skills, experience, and career goals. Our matching algorithm compares your profile against thousands of job requirements to find positions where you have the highest chance of success. This saves you hours of manual job searching and ensures you only see relevant opportunities.

One-Click Applications: Once you create your profile, applying to jobs is effortless. Your resume and cover letter are automatically tailored to highlight the most relevant experience for each position. You can apply to multiple jobs in minutes, not hours.

Career Intelligence: Beyond job matching, MisuJob provides valuable career insights. See how your skills compare to market demands, identify skill gaps to address, and understand salary benchmarks for your experience level. Make data-driven decisions about your career path.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I apply for this position?

Click the "Register to Apply" button above to create a free MisuJob account. Once registered, you can apply with one click and track your application status in your dashboard.

Is MisuJob free for job seekers?

Yes, MisuJob is completely free for job seekers. Create your profile, get matched with jobs, and apply without any cost. We help you find your dream job without any hidden fees.

How does AI matching work?

Our AI analyzes your resume, skills, and experience to understand your professional profile. It then compares this against job requirements using natural language processing to calculate a match percentage. Higher matches mean better fit for the role.

Can I apply to jobs in other countries?

Absolutely. MisuJob features jobs from companies worldwide, including remote positions. Filter by location or look for remote opportunities to find jobs that match your preferences.

Ready to Apply?

Join thousands of job seekers using MisuJob's AI to find and apply to their dream jobs automatically.