Propulsion Engineer

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.

About Harmattan AI

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.

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 test bench 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 Democratisation: Ensure internal visualisation tools are robust and user-friendly for the wider Harmattan team.

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.