Electric Motor / Propulsion Engineer

Skydio · Defense · San Mateo, CA +1 · R&D

Skydio is seeking an Electric Motor / Propulsion Engineer to model, architect, optimize, and refine electric propulsion systems for their drones. The role involves deep understanding of motor power, loss mechanisms, thermal modeling, and design optimization, integrating with control teams and ESCs. Experience with outrunner PMSMs and end-to-end drone propulsion systems is desired.

What you'd actually do

  1. Strong mathematical and physical understanding on motor power and loss mechanisms
  2. Excellent knowledge on finite element method
  3. Knowledge on motor thermal modeling
  4. Experience on electric motor loss characterization
  5. Knowledge on motor control theory

Skills

Required

  • electric motors
  • propulsion systems
  • finite element method
  • motor thermal modeling
  • motor loss characterization
  • motor control theory

Nice to have

  • outrunner PMSMs in the ~500W size class
  • drone propulsion systems
  • FAA Part 107 certification

What the JD emphasized

  • model, architect, and optimize a propulsion system, from ESCs to motors to propellers
  • Detailed motor design and optimization to optimize performance, efficiency and size
  • Create simulation model for thermal model development and system engineering
  • End to end understanding of drone propulsion systems, from battery to ESC to motors to propellors