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 RoleAs an Automation & Robotics Project Engineer within Harmattan AI's Automation & Industrialisation team, you will work alongside a Senior Automation & Robotics Engineer to design and commission robotics and automation cells hands-on, on a modular mixed-model assembly line built to run multiple quadcopter platforms on shared infrastructure.
You will own the full integrator relationship — defining requirements, managing suppliers technically and commercially, and controlling cost, quality, and delivery. Operating in a live ramp-up environment, you will make real industrial decisions on where and when automation creates value — directly strengthening Harmattan AI's capacity to manufacture autonomous systems at speed and scale.
ResponsibilitiesHands-On Automation and robotics
Design, assemble, and commission automation and robotics cells hands-on, directly within the shopfloor environment.
Integrate robotic systems, sensors, and actuators into modular stations compatible with a mixed-model assembly line.
Validate and deploy industrial equipment in collaboration with production teams to ensure operational readiness.
Execute rapid iterations on automation cells to keep pace with evolving products and processes during the production ramp-up.
Conduct technical and commercial assessments to justify automation investments and create value before implementation.
Integrator & Supplier Management
Define technical requirements and functional specifications for automation integrators.
Manage integrators end-to-end — from RFQ and design reviews through FAT/SAT and go-live.
Own cost tracking, budget control, and lead time management on automation projects.
Challenge supplier proposals technically and commercially — hold them to quality, cost, and delivery.
Performance & Continuous Improvement
Monitor cell performance post-deployment and drive OEE improvements across the shared line.
Identify root causes of faults and implement corrective actions — on the floor or with suppliers.
Ensure automation cells remain compatible with mixed-model production as the product portfolio grows.
Feed lessons learned into future specifications and cell designs.
Essential Qualifications
Degree in Robotics, Mechatronics, Automation Engineering, or equivalent.
0–3 years of experience — hands-on internships and academic projects are fully valued.
Practical hands-on experience with industrial and collaborative robots including brands such as Universal Robots, Doosan, FANUC, or KUKA.
Working knowledge of PLCs — notably Siemens TIA Portal/S7 — and associated automation architectures.
Familiarity with sensors, actuators, motion systems, and cell-level safety standards.
Ability to write clear technical specifications and functional requirements.
Comfortable managing suppliers and integrators — technically, commercially, and on schedule.
Thrives in fast-moving, iterative environments with incomplete information and evolving processes.
Rigorous, structured, and able to prioritize under ramp-up pressure.
Good communication in French and English — able to interact clearly with operators and engineers
Hands-on mindset; at ease on the shopfloor, not just behind a screen
Preferred Skills
Familiarity with vision systems, force/torque sensing, or automated quality inspection.
Understanding of OEE metrics and lean manufacturing principles.
Exposure to Industry 4.0 tools — digital twins, IoT, or predictive maintenance concepts.
Comfortable operating in ambiguous environments where processes are still being built
Communication & Influence: Excellent written and verbal communication in French and English, capable of leading diverse principals – from junior members to senior executives.
Commitment: 100% dedication to Harmattan AI’s mission, vision, and ambitious growth plans, ready to go the extra mile to ensure operational excellence.
We look forward to hearing how you can help shape the future of autonomous defense systems at Harmattan AI.
Skills Required
- Degree in Robotics, Mechatronics, Automation Engineering, or equivalent
- 0-3 years of experience (hands-on internships and academic projects valued)
- Practical hands-on experience with industrial and collaborative robots (e.g., Universal Robots, Doosan, FANUC, KUKA)
- Working knowledge of PLCs, notably Siemens TIA Portal and S7, and associated automation architectures
- Familiarity with sensors, actuators, motion systems, and cell-level safety standards
- Ability to write clear technical specifications and functional requirements
- Comfortable managing suppliers and integrators technically, commercially, and on schedule
- Hands-on mindset and comfort working on the shopfloor
- Good communication in French and English
- Familiarity with vision systems, force/torque sensing, or automated quality inspection
- Understanding of OEE metrics and lean manufacturing principles
- Exposure to Industry 4.0 tools (digital twins, IoT, predictive maintenance)
- Experience operating in ambiguous, fast-moving, iterative production ramp-up environments
- Ability to influence and communicate across levels, from operators to senior executives
- High commitment to company mission and willingness to go the extra mile
Harmattan AI Compensation & Benefits Highlights
The following summarizes recurring compensation and benefits themes identified from responses generated by popular LLMs to common candidate questions about Harmattan AI and has not been reviewed or approved by Harmattan AI.
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Fair & Transparent Compensation — Pay ranges are publicly shown for multiple U.S. roles (e.g., $140k–$200k base) and appear broadly in line with late‑stage startup/defense‑tech expectations based on the postings cited.
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Equity Value & Accessibility — Equity is repeatedly referenced in several job postings as part of total compensation, which can increase upside potential at a recently funded, high‑valuation company.
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Strong & Reliable Incentives — Sign‑on bonuses are explicitly mentioned in a hiring post for candidates who can start quickly, indicating the use of cash incentives in at least some hiring situations.
Harmattan AI Insights
What We Do
Harmattan AI is rising as a next-generation defense prime, building the future of autonomous warfare. We leverage AI-driven autonomy, real-time intelligence, and conflict-ready production to deliver attritable systems and autonomous mission management software. Designed for the real-world needs of warfighters, our solutions enable faster deployment, sharper decision-making, and battlefield dominance.
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