Propulsion Engineer

About the role

Harmattan AI, a defense prime building autonomous and scalable defense systems, is expanding its team as propulsion requirements grow. You will join a 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 organisation. This is a practice-oriented role bridging Python software development and physical hardware testing.

Key responsibilities

• Build and maintain the hardware motor test bench to measure motor, propeller and controller performance.
• Develop and improve internal Python-based tools for propulsion test bench operations and data visualisation.
• Create scripts to calculate motor thrust requirements and manage large datasets to extrapolate performance across hardware configurations.
• Execute motor tests, upload results to the cloud platform and author technical reports for internal stakeholders and manufacturers.
• Take part in design meetings for new platforms (e.g. fixed-wing observers) and advise on propulsion solutions for range and autonomy specifications.
• Make sure internal visualisation tools are robust and user-friendly for the wider team.

Required profile

• Engineering degree (Master's or equivalent) in Mechatronics, Programming or a related field; self-taught learners with exceptional portfolios will be considered.
• Practical understanding of propulsion physics and experience with electric propulsion systems or UAV environments.
• Ability to independently implement key features and bring testing platforms to a state-of-the-art level within 90 days.
• Proactive problem solving, identifying edge cases and bottlenecks.
• Ability to guide R&D teams on requirements and communicate clearly with manufacturers about prototype results.
• Full commitment to the company's mission in a rapid prototyping environment.

Required skills

• Strong Python programming, especially for data analysis, plotting and sensor integration.