Propulsion Engineer

ABOUT US Harmattan AI is a next-generation defense prime building autonomous and scalable defense systems. Following the close of a $200M Series B, valuing the company at $1.4 billion, we are expanding our teams and capabilities to deliver mission-critical systems to allied forces. Our work is guided by clear values: building technologies with real-world impact, pursuing excellence in everything we do, setting ambitious goals, and taking on the hardest technical challenges. We operate in a demanding environment where rigor, ownership, and execution are expected. 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.

At Heart Aerospace we develop the ES-30, a regional hybrid-electric airplane with a capacity of 30 passengers, an electric zero-emission range of 200 km and an extended hybrid range of 400 km. Heart is targeting type certification of the ES-30 by the end of the decade. Your mission As a Propulsion Engineer focused on Transmission, you will be essential in designing, developing, and integrating the mechanical power transmission system within our hybrid-electric propulsion framework. Transmission system includes but is not limited to shaft, drive shafts, couplings, gearbox, and disconnect systems. You will collaborate closely with teams from various disciplines, including electric propulsion, turbomachinery, software, and structural engineering, to create robust, lightweight, and high-efficiency transmission solutions. This role demands a high level of technical expertise in mechanical design and a strong understanding of propulsion systems. Key responsibilities include but are not limited to: * This role is a Responsible Engineer (RE) who focuses on the integration of hybrid transmission systems into our hybrid aircraft. * Design and develop gearbox and mechanical power transmission systems for electric and hybrid-electric propulsion. * Perform sizing, strength, thermal, and NVH (noise, vibration, harshness) analyses of transmission components. * Nonlinear static and Dynamic analysis of structures and rotor systems. * Work closely with suppliers and manufacturing partners to guide component development, material selection, and manufacturing processes. * Define requirements, specifications, and interface documents for transmission subsystems. * Lead and support testing and validation efforts including test rig development, instrumentation, and data analysis. * Collaborate with propulsion integration teams to ensure seamless integration into the aircraft. * Support certification and compliance activities in alignment with aviation regulatory bodies (e.g., EASA, FAA). You'll Bring These Qualifications: * 3+ years of experience in mechanical transmission design, preferably in aerospace or automotive sectors. * Aircraft or rotorcraft rotor dynamics and external loads analysis. * Hands-on experience in testing and validation of rotating machinery. * Proficiency in CAD tools (e.g., CATIA, Siemens NX) and CAE tools FEA, Python, Ansys for structural analysis and Github. * Experience with gear design, bearings, lubrication systems, and housing structures These Qualifications Would Be Nice to Have: * Understanding of certification requirements (EASA CS-23/25 or FAA FAR Part 23/25). * Knowledge of aerospace airworthiness standards, e.g. DO-254, and DO-160. * Experience with electric or hybrid propulsion systems. Education * Master’s or PhD degree in in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a relevant discipline. Base Pay Range:  $124,000—$155,000 USD