Propulsion Engineer

Harmattan AI in Lausanne seeks a mid-level Propulsion Engineer to join a small, high-impact team developing motor test benches and Python-based tools for propulsion testing. The role bridges software and hardware, supporting rapid prototyping in defense systems.

As propulsion demands grow at Harmattan AI, the company is expanding its engineering team to accelerate development of critical hardware and software tools. This role involves working in a two-person team to build state-of-the-art motor test benches and supporting software infrastructure, serving as a bridge between Python development and physical testing.

Responsibilities

• Design and maintain hardware test benches for measuring motor, propeller, and controller performance.
• Create and enhance internal Python tools for operating test benches and visualizing data.
• Write scripts to compute motor thrust needs and process large datasets to predict performance across hardware setups.
• Conduct motor tests, upload results to the cloud platform, and prepare technical reports for internal teams and manufacturers.
• Join design discussions for new platforms like fixed-wing observers, contributing propulsion expertise to meet range and autonomy goals.
• Ensure internal visualization tools are reliable and easy to use for the broader Harmattan team.

Requirements

• An engineering degree (Master’s or equivalent) in Mechatronics, Programming, or a related field; self-taught candidates with outstanding portfolios may be considered.
• Strong Python skills, especially in data analysis, plotting, and integrating sensor data.
• Practical knowledge of propulsion physics and experience with electric propulsion systems or UAV environments.
• Ability to independently implement key features and advance testing platforms to a cutting-edge standard within the first 90 days.
• A critical mindset that identifies edge cases and system bottlenecks, beyond just following instructions.
• Capability to advise R&D teams on technical requirements and communicate effectively with manufacturers about prototype outcomes.
• Full commitment to Harmattan AI’s mission, thriving in a fast-paced prototyping environment where speed and rigorous testing are both essential.

About the company

Harmattan AI is a next-generation defense company developing autonomous and scalable defense systems. Following a $200M Series B funding round, the company is valued at $1.4 billion and is expanding its teams and technical capabilities. It emphasizes real-world impact, excellence, ambitious goals, and tackling complex technical challenges in a rigorous, ownership-driven environment.

• Focus on building technologies with real-world impact.
• Commitment to excellence and setting ambitious technical goals.
• Tackling the hardest engineering challenges.
• Operating in a demanding environment that values rigor, ownership, and execution.