Junior Robotics Automation 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 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. RESPONSIBILITIES Hands-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. CANDIDATE REQUIREMENTS Essential Qualifications - Degree in Robotics, Mechatronics, Automation Engineering, or equivalent. - At least 2 years of experience - 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…