Aerodynamics Testing Engineer

Harmattan AI, a defense technology company valued at $1.4 billion after a $200M Series B, seeks a Mid-level Aerodynamics Testing Engineer in Lausanne, CH. The role focuses on validating UAV flight physics through physical testing, rapid prototyping, and data analysis to ensure aircraft efficiency, stability, and safety.

The Aerodynamics Testing Engineer role connects theoretical simulations with real-world performance by validating flight physics for UAV platforms. The position supports the development of autonomous defense systems through experimental campaigns, rapid prototyping, and collaboration with mechanical engineering teams to design and build custom test rigs and instrumented prototypes.

Responsibilities

• Create aerodynamic prototypes using foam (CNC, hot wire), 3D printing, laser cutting, or composites to test and refine shapes.
• Lead flight testing for fixed-wing and eVTOL platforms, including planning test procedures, setting safety protocols, and analyzing flight logs for model validation and system identification.
• Plan and run wind tunnel and static thrust tests, building instrumented scale models and automated data acquisition rigs to assess propulsion and airframe performance.
• Compare simulation outputs with experimental data to enhance model accuracy and build comprehensive Aerodynamic Databases (ADB) covering full flight envelopes.
• Install sensors such as Pitot-static systems, alpha/beta vanes, and load cells into prototypes, and develop software to control automated test rigs and synchronize high-speed data acquisition systems.
• Analyze flight logs in depth to extract performance data, power usage patterns, and stability characteristics.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Aerospace or Mechanical Engineering, or a related field with a focus on experimental fluid dynamics or flight testing.
• Practical experience with CNC hot-wire foam cutting, 3D printing, CNC routing, or composites, including designing for fast fabrication.
• Proven ability to design and run aerodynamic experiments, controlling variables and ensuring data quality in real-world, noisy conditions.
• Advanced skills in Python (NumPy, SciPy, Pandas) for processing large experimental datasets and generating automated reports.
• Proficiency in data visualization tools such as Matplotlib, Plotly, or Seaborn for aerodynamic data presentation.
• Experience with LabVIEW, MATLAB/Simulink, or Python-based hardware interfaces (e.g., PyVISA, nidaqmx, pyserial).
• Strong expertise in SolidWorks or CATIA for designing complex test benches and wind tunnel fixtures.

Nice to have

• Experience flying Radio Control (RC) aircraft.
• Familiarity with Machine Learning or Reduced Order Models (ROMs) for developing Aerodynamic Databases.
• Background in aerodynamic system identification techniques using flight data to validate performance models.

About the company

Harmattan AI emphasizes creating technologies with real-world impact, striving for excellence and tackling complex technical challenges. The company operates in a high-pressure environment where precision, personal accountability, and strong execution are expected.

• Focus on technologies with tangible real-world impact.
• Commitment to excellence and ambitious goal-setting.
• Encouragement to take on the most difficult technical challenges.
• Expectation of rigor, ownership, and execution in a demanding work environment.