R&D Hybrid & Hydrogen Senior Engineer

Lead exploratory and applied research and development into next-generation UAV/RPAS propulsion battery-electric, hybrid-electric (ICE + electric), and hydrogen (fuel cell and/or hydrogen combustion) powertrains. The objective is to build Powertech s technology base and product options beyond conventional internal combustion, sized to the platform classes addressed by the P-series portfolio. This is a forward-looking, hands-on engineering role spanning technology scouting, concept design, modelling, and prototyping working closely with the Powertech Italy facility, the Test team, and external technology partners RESPONSIBILITIES Technology Roadmap & Scouting • Roadmap build and maintain Powertech s new-propulsion roadmap (electric, hybrid, hydrogen) aligned to platform needs. • Scouting & benchmarking track technology and suppliers (electric motors, controllers/inverters, batteries, fuel cells, hydrogen storage) and benchmark competitor approaches. Concept Design & Feasibility • Concepts develop concepts and feasibility studies for electric, hybrid-electric, and hydrogen powertrains sized to UAV platform classes. • Trade studies run trade studies on endurance, weight, power-to-weight, thermal management, packaging, cost, and safety. Modelling & Analysis • Powertrain modelling model and size powertrains and energy systems; perform mission/energy, thermal, and integration analysis. • Tools use first-principles engineering and simulation (e.g., MATLAB/Simulink, Python) to support design decisions. Prototyping & Testing • Demonstrators design, build, and test demonstrators and bench rigs; be hands-on in the lab and test cell. • Test coordination coordinate test campaigns with the Test team and the Italy facility, including instrumentation and data analysis. Partner & Supplier Coordination • Partnerships work with technology partners, suppliers, and universities; frequent coordination and on-site work at the Italy facility. • Supplier R&D manage R&D supplier relationships and joint development activities. IP, Documentation & Hand-off • IP & reports capture intellectual property and produce technical reports, concept definitions, and data to inform product decisions. • Hand-off transition validated concepts toward product development with the relevant Product Manager. PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS • Fuel cells, hydrogen storage and safety, or hydrogen combustion experience. • Battery systems, electric motor / inverter integration, and hybrid powertrain control. • UAV/aerospace propulsion; functional safety for high-voltage or hydrogen systems. BASIC QUALIFICATIONS • Degree in Aerospace, Mechanical, Electrical, Energy, or Mechatronics Engineering (Master s/PhD desirable). • 5+ years in propulsion or powertrain R&D, including hands-on work in at least one of electric, hybrid-electric, or hydrogen systems. • Strong first-principles engineering, modelling, and prototyping ability. • Demonstrated ability to take a technology from concept through feasibility to working demonstrator.