Propulsion Engineer

About the Role

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 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.

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.