Operations Manager – Flight Test

About the role

STARK is looking for an Operations Manager to lead end‑to‑end flight test campaigns across Europe. You will plan, execute and deliver test missions, ensuring safety, data quality and on‑time results while coordinating with military ranges and aviation authorities.

Key responsibilities

• Plan, prepare and run 1–2 week flight test campaigns, handling logistics, personnel deployment and equipment readiness.
• Act as on‑site operational lead, making real‑time decisions on scheduling, test sequencing and resource allocation.
• Directly manage a core team of 6–8 flight test personnel and coordinate up to 20 people on‑site.
• Maintain primary contact with national aviation authorities, military stakeholders and airspace agencies, securing range access and handling NOTAMs.
• Produce post‑campaign reports documenting outcomes, deviations and lessons learned.

Required profile

• 3–6 years of experience in flight operations, flight test, UAS operations or related technical project management.
• Proven ability to lead small field teams (4+ members) in high‑stakes environments.
• Strong communication skills in English; German is a plus.
• Experience working with military ranges and civil aviation authorities.

Required skills

• Flight operations and flight safety principles, including risk assessment and emergency procedures.
• Project management expertise; formal qualifications such as PMP, PRINCE2 or Scrum are a plus.
• UAS (unmanned aerial system) operational knowledge.
• Ability to adapt campaign plans dynamically to weather, airspace or technical constraints.