Electric Propulsion Engineer

Overview

At Vessev, we are pioneering an innovative marine transport solution using hydrofoiling electric vessels designed and built in New Zealand. These boats operate above water on advanced hydrofoils paired with state-of-the-art control and electric propulsion systems. Our team is growing rapidly with global expansion and exciting milestones, and we are seeking a Propulsion Engineer to join the Hydrofoil Systems team.

Role Scope

The Hydrofoil Systems team is fundamental in enabling the vessels’ hydrofoiling abilities, contributing to efficient operation and integrating various components into a high-performance vessel. You’ll work closely alongside production teams to see your designs come to life daily.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the mechanical design, integration, and validation of electric propulsion systems, from current motorpods to future larger propulsion units.
• Work with electric motors, power electronics, high-voltage DC systems, cooling, sensors, and electromechanical packaging.
• Balance design priorities including efficiency, reliability, manufacturability, and performance.
• Use analytical methods, dynamometer and on-water testing data to continually refine propulsion designs.
• Collaborate closely with controls, firmware, electrical, systems, and mechanical engineers to optimize integrated propulsion systems.
• Innovate with design approaches that improve packaging, cooling, reliability, and system performance beyond conventional solutions.
• Bridge design with manufacturing, ensuring feasibility, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness in production processes.

Candidate Profile

• A degree in Mechanical, Mechatronics, Electrical Engineering, or related fields.
• Experience in designing and optimizing high-performance electric motors with regard to electromagnetic performance, thermal management, efficiency, manufacturability, and reliability.
• Proven ability in hardware commissioning including dynamometer tests, hardware-in-the-loop setups, and on-water validation.
• Understanding of permanent magnet synchronous motor (PMSM) control algorithms and drive configuration.
• Strong interdisciplinary teamwork skills to coordinate with multiple engineering domains.
• Proficiency in CAD for component and assembly designs, and experience supporting manufacturing and assembly.

Desirable Experience

• Integrating sensors such as torque, thrust, speed, position, temperature, pressure, or condition monitoring.
• PCB design and layout skills for power electronics or embedded system applications.
• Electrical design background, especially with DC power architectures.
• Familiarity with the marine industry is a plus.

Company Vision

Vessev drives toward a cleaner future with technologies that reduce energy use by up to 90% compared to conventional boats. Supported by prominent investors and staffed by experts from elite organizations, our culture values purpose, humility, and optimistic innovation.

Working Environment

We operate primarily onsite to foster collaboration and hands-on development but believe in flexible work approaches respectful of individual needs.

Employee Benefits

• Opportunity to contribute to transformative water transport technology.
• Collaborative and highly skilled team environment.
• Generous parental leave policies (20 weeks for primary caregivers, 4 weeks for secondary).
• Competitive salary offerings.
• Workplace location next to the Tamaki River with access to boating and water sports communities.

Additional Information

We welcome applications from all qualified candidates and encourage those who may not meet every criterion but are enthusiastic and capable to apply.