
The Exploration Company · Munich
Here at The Exploration Company, we are developing, producing, and operating Nyx, a modular and reusable space orbital vehicle that can eventually be refuelled ...
Here at The Exploration Company, we are developing, producing, and operating Nyx, a modular and reusable space orbital vehicle
that can eventually be refuelled in orbit and that can carry cargo - and potentially humans in the longer run.
The operations team is looking for a Site Director (Germany) to own safe, compliant, and efficient operations across our sites in
Munich (includes integration halls, offices, labs, and test areas). Reporting to Lead Operations, you will lead vendors or work
hands-on to deliver facilities reliability, compliant execution, and friction‑free activities.
with the site manager and logistics responsible)
utilities running.
commissioning in occupied areas.
plans.
registers; drive incident reporting, root‑cause analysis, and corrective actions.
escorting, signage, and disposal procedures.
and on budget with as‑builts and O&M docs.
waste, recycling).
environments).
cadence, anomaly management).
contractor controls in hazardous operations.
design these, but must govern readiness and safe operation).
drawings.
off‑hours/weekend test ops when needed.
Why you should join us!
What makes us special here at The Exploration Company and why we think you will enjoy working here is:
up for the challenge?
We'd love to hear from you if you wish to be a part of our journey. Please submit your CV now for immediate consideration and we
will be in touch shortly.
The Exploration Company is an equal opportunity employer and values diversity. We do not discriminate based on race, religion,
colour, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status or disability status. Relocation assistance is provided
for those willing to relocate including visa sponsorship where applicable.
All offers are contingent upon the successful completion of a background check, which will be subject to the country, role, and
project you applied for. By submitting your application, you acknowledge and agree that any offer of employment may be conditional
upon successful condition of this check. The Exploration Company partners with Zinc Work Limited located in the UK (Zinc), a
third-party provider, to ensure this process as efficient and transparent as possible.
If applicable, you will receive an email from Zinc upon acceptance of your offer with a link to a secure portal where you can
provide the required information to Zinc.
ABOUT US STARK is a new kind of defence technology company, revolutionizing the way autonomous systems are deployed across multiple domains. We design, develop and manufacture high-performance unmanned systems that are software-defined, mass-scalable, and cost-effective. This provides our operators with a decisive edge in highly contested environments. We’re focused on delivering deployable, high-performance systems. In a time of rising threats, STARK is bolstering the technological edge of NATO Allies and their Partners to deter aggression and defend Europe. YOUR MISSION As a Flight Test Engineer, you are the "Conductor of the Flight Line." Depending on your seniority, you will be responsible for the end-to-end lifecycle of our flight test campaigns, from initial planning and hazard assessment to execution and deep-dive data analysis. Beyond the technical data, you serve as the primary Onsite Leader. You are the person who ensures testing priorities are crystal clear to everyone on the range. You manage the daily tempo, coordinate the crew, and ensure that every person, from pilots to software engineers, knows exactly which tests are being conducted and when. Your mission is to transform raw flight data into actionable insights while maintaining a high-tempo, disciplined, and safe testing environment. RESPONSIBILITIES ONSITE TEST COORDINATION & LEADERSHIP * Act as the Onsite Test Coordinator: Lead daily operations on the range, ensuring the team stays focused on the primary test objectives. * Clarify Priorities: Maintain and communicate the "Daily Flight Schedule," ensuring everyone knows the sequence of events and current testing priorities. * Lead Briefings: Drive the morning "Pre-Flight Brief" and the evening "Debrief," capturing critical feedback and setting goals for the following day. * Resource Management: Coordinate the availability of airframes, ground support equipment, and personnel to maximize range time efficiency. FLIGHT EXECUTION & SAFETY * Coordinate and execute UAV flight tests in compliance with regulatory requirements and STARK safety standards. * Ensure all flight activities and anomalies are documented with high fidelity. * Develop specific Flight Test Techniques (FTTs) and instrumentation requirements to capture critical performance metrics. * Lead Flight Readiness Reviews (FRR) and contribute to safety review boards. TEST DESIGN & DATA ANALYSIS * Develop comprehensive flight test plans, test cards, and rigorous flight test hazard assessments (FTHA). * Process and analyze flight data using MATLAB or Python to validate system performance against requirements. * Work closely with Ardupilot and PX4-based flight control systems to iterate on flight behavior and performance. * Manage the configuration of flight test articles, ensuring all hardware and software versions are meticulously tracked. YOUR FIRST 12 MONTHS TIMEFRAME FOCUS MONTH 0–1: INTEGRATION DEEP DIVE INTO STARK UAV ARCHITECTURES AND SAFETY MANUALS. SHADOW CURRENT FLIGHT TESTS TO LEARN OUR OPERATIONAL TEMPO AND COORDINATION STYLE. MONTH 1–3: OPERATIONAL LEAD BEGIN ACTING AS THE PRIMARY ONSITE COORDINATOR FOR PRODUCTION TESTS. TAKE OWNERSHIP OF THE DAILY FLIGHT SCHEDULE AND ENSURE HIGH-FIDELITY LOGGING OF ALL SORTIES. MONTH 3–6: OPTIMIZATION LEAD COMPLEX EXPERIMENTAL CAMPAIGNS. REFINE OUR ONSITE COMMUNICATION TOOLS TO ENSURE 100% CLARITY ON TEST PRIORITIES ACROSS THE ENGINEERING TEAM. MONTH 6–12: LEADERSHIP ACT AS TEST DIRECTOR FOR MULTI-ASSET CAMPAIGNS. MENTOR JUNIOR ENGINEERS AND PILOTS ON STRUCTURED TEST EXECUTION, RANGE MANAGEMENT, AND REGULATORY COMPLIANCE. QUALIFICATIONS EDUCATIONAL & LEGAL BACKGROUND * Degree: Bachelor’s or higher in Aerospace, Electrical, Mechanical, or Systems Engineering. * NATO Citizenship: Must be a citizen of a NATO member state (due to export control and security regulations). * Communication: Professional-level written and verbal English. TECHNICAL & LEADERSHIP TOOLKIT * Coordination Skills: Proven ability to lead a technical team on-site, manage schedules, and communicate priorities clearly under pressure. * Data Mastery: Practical experience in data reduction and analysis using MATLAB or Python. * UAV Systems: Familiarity with Ground Control Stations (GCS), telemetry systems, and mission planning tools. * Testing Rigor: Proven ability to plan and conduct system-level tests in an aerospace or defense environment. MINDSET & STYLE * The "General" Mindset: You are naturally organized and can work through ambiguity on the flight line. * Analytical & Decisive: You can analyze a data anomaly quickly and decide whether to continue testing. * Meticulous Documenter: You believe that if it wasn't documented with high fidelity, the test never happened. PREFERRED EXPERIENCE * Active experience as an FTE or Test Director in crewed or uncrewed aviation. * Hands-on experience with flight test instrumentation (FTI) and DAQ systems. * Experience with Hardware-in-the-Loop (HIL) simulation environments.
ABOUT US STARK is a new kind of defence technology company, revolutionizing the way autonomous systems are deployed across multiple domains. We design, develop and manufacture high-performance unmanned systems that are software-defined, mass-scalable, and cost-effective. This provides our operators with a decisive edge in highly contested environments. We’re focused on delivering deployable, high-performance systems. In a time of rising threats, STARK is bolstering the technological edge of NATO Allies and their Partners to deter aggression and defend Europe. YOUR MISSION As a UAV Test Pilot at STARK, you are the critical link between digital design and physical reality. Working in lockstep with Flight Test Engineers, you will be responsible for the planning, execution, and reporting of flight tests for experimental, developmental, and modified production systems. Your mission is to push our airframes to their limits to validate performance, ensure compliance with international standards, and prove the safety of our designs. You aren't just "flying drones", you are validating the next generation of autonomous flight technologies that will protect Europe. Whether you are executing high-performance manual maneuvers or monitoring complex BVLOS autonomous missions, your feedback will directly shape the software and hardware of the future. RESPONSIBILITIES RESPONSIBILITIES FLIGHT OPERATIONS & EXECUTION * Conduct remote piloting of unmanned aircraft during development and validation campaigns, often in full-manual mode to test the raw flight envelope. * Execute flight tests with surgical precision according to the flight test programme. * Monitor live telemetry and onboard video streams, maintaining total situational awareness of aircraft health and test status. * Coordinate seamlessly with GCS operators, observers, and engineers in a high-pressure team environment. TEST PLANNING & PREPARATION * Contribute operational expertise to test site selection, flight profiles, hazard analysis, and weather constraints. * Prepare UAV systems, including pre-flight configuration, control link verification, and functional system checks. * Assist with the integration and ground verification of flight-critical hardware and software. SAFETY, REGULATORY & DOCUMENTATION * Act as the final authority on safety for each sortie, conducting risk assessments and responding to anomalies or emergency situations. * Maintain airspace deconfliction in accordance with SORA and EASA regulatory requirements. * Participate in briefings/debriefings, providing structured, technical feedback on aircraft behavior. * Support licensing and documentation to build long-term test capabilities across Germany and Europe. YOUR FIRST 12 MONTHS TIMEFRAME FOCUS MONTH 0–1: ONBOARDING MASTER THE STARK TECH STACK. GET FAMILIAR WITH OUR CURRENT AIRFRAMES, GCS SOFTWARE, AND SAFETY PROTOCOLS. COMPLETE LOCAL SITE INDUCTIONS AND SHADOW EXISTING FLIGHT OPERATIONS. MONTH 1–3: INTEGRATION BEGIN EXECUTING STANDARD TEST CARDS. SUPPORT THE ENGINEERING TEAM IN GROUND-TESTING NEW COMPONENTS AND TAKE YOUR FIRST "STICK TIME" WITH EXPERIMENTAL PROTOTYPES. MONTH 3–6: MISSION LEAD LEAD FLIGHT TEST CAMPAIGNS FOR SPECIFIC SUBSYSTEM VALIDATIONS. CONTRIBUTE SIGNIFICANTLY TO SORA APPLICATIONS AND EXPAND OUR OPERATIONAL FOOTPRINT IN EUROPE. MONTH 6–12: ADVANCED TESTING EXECUTE COMPLEX BVLOS AND HIGH-PERFORMANCE ENVELOPES. START TRANSITIONING TOWARD FLIGHT TEST ENGINEERING (FTE) TASKS, INCLUDING DATA ANALYSIS AND TEST DIRECTOR RESPONSIBILITIES. QUALIFICATIONS EXPERIENCE & CERTIFICATIONS * Valid EU A1/A3 and A2 Remote Pilot Certificates (EASA). * Valid radio operator certificate (e.g., BZF) or the ability to obtain one immediately. * Demonstrable manual piloting skills of high-performance fixed-wing and multirotor UAVs (precision take-offs, landings, and maneuvering in tight spots). * Experience with professional GCS software, mission planning tools, and telemetry monitoring. * Must be a citizen of a NATO member state (due to export control and security regulations). TECHNICAL MINDSET * Familiarity with test operations under BVLOS and experimental conditions. * Skilled in maintaining situational awareness during long, complex multi-aircraft operations. * A problem-solving mindset—you don’t just report a bug; you help the engineers find the "why." * Excellent written and verbal communication in English. MINDSET & STYLE * Disciplined: You follow test cards to the letter but stay agile when a plan changes last minute. * Reliable: High attention to detail with a "safety-first" internal compass. * Startup Ready: You thrive in a fast-paced environment where your role evolves as the company grows. NICE TO HAVE * Previous experience as a Flight Test Engineer or holding a PPL/CPL/ATPL. * Hands-on experience tuning Ardupilot or PX4 autopilot systems. * Background in military UAV operations or defense contracting. WHY STARK * Shape the Future: A unique opportunity to influence the trajectory of autonomous flight tech. * Fast-Paced Growth: Flat hierarchies and a decision-heavy environment —no red tape, just results. * The Best Tools: Access to cutting-edge drone hardware and dedicated test facilities. * Career Path: Development pathway toward Senior Flight Test Engineer or Test Director roles. * Competitive Package: Salary that reflect your value to the mission.
ABOUT DEDALE: Dedale is the differentiating source of strategic intelligence in the technology space. With a unique team of over 100 full-time research analysts & planners, Dedale leverages a network of over 10,000 market professionals to deliver on-the-ground strategic intelligence to investors and corporates, with a core focus around North America and Europe. Our team gathers top talents with diverse and international backgrounds. Our Research & Investment team has the strongest expertise in the ecosystem on B2B Software due diligence, and we are surrounded by a network of mentors including high-profile tech founders and investors. OUR CULTURE: Dedale gathers a group of highly talented international individuals (incl. US, Chinese, Filipino, French, Moroccan, Latvian, Lebanese nationalities among others). The leadership team is composed of experienced investment professionals & management consultants (ex-McKinsey, BCG Project Leaders & managers). Our advisory board is extremely high profile, including some of the most successful investors worldwide (incl. Managing Partners of the largest PE and Growth Equity funds, and Tech unicorn entrepreneurs). We seek to develop a dream team of outstanding investment analysts with strong academic and professional achievements and a passion for investing and technology. YOUR OPPORTUNITY: This role offers the opportunity to lead Dedale Intelligence's expansion into Germany, opening our Munich presence from the ground up. You will establish and build the local team, set up our German subsidiary, and develop the commercial activity in the DACH market — owning both the business development and the client relationships from day one. Working hand in hand with our headquarters in Paris, you will shape how Dedale grows in one of Europe's most important markets. YOUR ROLE: 1.Research Leadership * Lead research on software & technology companies and market segments * Build, grow and coach a team of 3–4 analysts and associates, fast growing up to 10, dedicated to research * Collaborate with a team of ~10 highly experienced ex-Tier 1 management consultants at Paris HQ, contributing to the research * Deliver high-quality, valuable deliverables that support decision-making on multi-million euro investments * Communicate directly with very high-profile customers, including fund managing partners, billionaire entrepreneurs, and family office managers 2.Commercial Development * Own client relationships and new business in the DACH market * Build trusted, high-level rapport with PE Partners, M&A Directors, and C-suite leaders, adding value through market intelligence fluency in live conversations and in-person meetings * Drive expansion through a solution-focused approach, identifying cross-sell and upsell opportunities across the account lifecycle * Design and execute account-level growth strategies * Act as the voice of the customer internally, working cross-functionally to ensure product updates and features align with the sophisticated needs of our client base 3.Market Opener * Lead the opening of the Munich office * Lead recruitment locally and embed Dedale's culture * Support the strategic development of the company hand in hand with the founders and leadership team, to build a sustainable and unique differentiation in the market YOUR PROFILE: * Strong track record of operational leadership and delivering measurable results in Germany * 5–7+ years of experience in top-tier management consulting * Entrepreneurial mindset with hands-on experience leading business growth or market expansion * Smart and strategic, but a real operator — comfortable getting things done without a safety net * Clear, confident communicator with strong leadership and stakeholder management skills * Solid understanding of business strategy, digital transformation, and the B2B software landscape * Comfortable working independently in fast-moving environments, with a genuine sense of urgency * Proven experience building and developing high-performing teams from the ground up * Able to deliver impact quickly * Fluent in German and English — essential for client-facing work in the DACH market CHERRY ON THE CAKE: * You like collaborating as a team and delivering your best as an individual * You are passionate about technology, innovation, and investment RECRUITMENT PROCESS: * Introductory call with our Head of HR * Pre-case with our COO & MD * 1 Case Study with our VP * Final on-site interview with Managing Director, CEO, and coffee chat with the team