Propulsion Engineer

About the role

Harmattan AI is a next-generation defense prime building autonomous and scalable defense systems. Following the close of a $200M Series B, valuing the company at $1.4 billion, we are expanding our teams and capabilities to deliver mission-critical systems to allied forces. Our work is guided by clear values: building technologies with real-world impact, pursuing excellence in everything we do, setting ambitious goals, and taking on the hardest technical challenges. We operate in a demanding environment where rigor, ownership, and execution are expected. As the propulsion requirements of Harmattan increase, we are expanding our team to accelerate the development of critical hardware and software tools. You will join a high-impact, two-person team focused on building state-of-the-art motor test benches and the software infrastructure used to visualise and share results across the entire organisation. This is a practice-oriented role that bridges the gap between Python software development and physical hardware testing.

Responsibilities

• System Development : Build and maintain the hardware motor test bench to measure motor, propeller, and controller performance.
• Software Engineering : Develop and improve internal Python-based tools for propulsion testbench operations and data visualisation.
• Data Analysis : Create scripts to calculate motor thrust requirements and manage large datasets to extrapolate performance across different hardware configurations.
• Testing & Reporting : Execute motor tests, upload results to our cloud platform, and author technical reports for internal stakeholders and manufacturers.
• Collaborative Design : Participate in design meetings for new platforms (e.g., fixed-wing observers), providing expertise on propulsion solutions to meet range and autonomy specifications.
• Tool Democratization : Ensure internal visualisation tools are robust and user-friendly for the wider Harmattan team.
• Candidate Requirements
• Educational Background : Engineering degree (Master's or equivalent) in Mechatronics, Programming, or a related field; self-taught learners with exceptional portfolios will be considered.
• Technical Proficiency : Strong Python programming skills, specifically for data analysis, plotting, and sensor integration.
• Domain Expertise : Practical understanding of propulsion physics and experience with electric propulsion systems or UAV environments.
• Complex Project Management : Ability to autonomously implement important features and move testing platforms to a state-of-the-art level within the first 90 days.
• Proactive Problem Solving : A critical thinker who identifies edge cases and bottlenecks rather than just following instructions.
• Communication & Influence : Ability to guide R&D teams on requirements and speak effectively with manufacturers regarding prototype results.
• Commitment : 100% dedication to Harmattan AI's mission, thriving in a rapid prototyping environment where speed and methodical testing are equally vital.
• We look forward to hearing how you can help shape the future of autonomous defense systems at Harmattan AI.

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