Junior Mechanical Engineer – Quadcopter Systems

Harmattan AI seeks a Junior Mechanical Engineer in Lausanne to design and prototype quadcopter airframes for defense applications, working directly with physical hardware from the start.

This position sits within the Quadcopter Airframe team based in Lausanne. The engineer will focus on creating, testing, and integrating next-generation multirotor hardware designed for mission-critical environments. From the first day, the role involves direct engagement with physical hardware rather than purely theoretical work.

Responsibilities

• Develop and refine production-ready 3D models and assemblies using SolidWorks.
• Integrate electrical components, PCBs, sensors, actuators, and wiring into compact quadcopter structures.
• Utilize 3D printers, shop tools, and bench-test equipment to validate and stress-test designs.
• Produce accurate 2D manufacturing drawings, specify tolerances, and generate bills of materials for various production methods.
• Partner with Electrical Engineering, Aerodynamics, Industrialisation, and Supply Chain teams to resolve spatial packaging challenges.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Mechatronics, Aerospace, or a related field from a University of Applied Sciences or traditional university.
• Up to three years of practical experience in mechanical engineering, robotics, or electromechanical hardware development.
• Proficiency in SolidWorks with strong parametric assembly design capabilities.
• Solid understanding of manufacturing constraints, including tolerances, draft angles, and tool access, for CNC machining, 3D printing, and plastic enclosures.

Nice to have

• Demonstrated high performance in competitive university hardware teams such as Formula Student, FSAE, robotics clubs, or UAV projects.

What the company offers

• Participate in rapid engineering cycles that allow for immediate iteration and feedback.
• Accumulate significant practical hardware experience within the first year.
• Collaborate closely with senior engineers across mechanical, electrical, aerodynamic, and production disciplines.
• Contribute to hardware deployed with allied forces, ensuring direct mission impact.

About the company

Harmattan AI operates as a next-generation defense prime, developing autonomous and scalable defense systems. The organization prioritizes technologies with tangible real-world impact, striving for excellence and tackling the most difficult technical challenges. The work environment demands rigor, personal ownership, and strong execution capabilities.

• Focus on building technologies that deliver real-world impact.
• Commitment to pursuing excellence and setting ambitious goals.
• Willingness to take on the hardest technical challenges.
• Expectation of rigor, ownership, and execution in a demanding environment.