Archer is an aerospace company based in San Jose, California building an all-electric vertical takeoff and landing aircraft with a mission to advance the benefits of sustainable air mobility. We are designing, manufacturing, and operating an all-electric aircraft that can carry four passengers while producing minimal noise.
Our sights are set high and our problems are hard, and we believe that diversity in the workplace is what makes us smarter, drives better insights, and will ultimately lift us all to success. We are dedicated to cultivating an equitable and inclusive environment that embraces our differences, and supports and celebrates all of our team members.
What you'll do:
We are seeking an experienced Leader to manage our advanced composite structures design team. This role will provide critical leadership and guidance in the area of design, development, and certification of critical composite structures for our eVTOL aircraft, ensuring optimal performance, weight efficiency, and safety while meeting stringent aviation standards.
Key Responsibilities
Identify key roles required for team success and recruit top talent into the Airframe team at Archer
Provide team guidance, regular feedback, education, coaching and mentoring
Create career development plans, manage performance, create performance reviews
Coordinate with product teams to ensure proper resource levels to support program objectives.
Foster a culture of innovation, safety, and continuous improvement
Development & Innovation
Drive advanced composite design concepts and manufacturing processes
Evaluate new materials, technologies, and design methodologies
Collaborate with suppliers and partners on composite solutions
Contribute to intellectual property development and patent applications
Required Qualifications
Education & Experience
Bachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Materials Science, or related field
Master's degree preferred
10+ years of experience in composite structures design and analysis
3+ years of management or team leadership experience
Experience with aircraft certification processes (Part 23, Part 27, or Part 25)
Technical Skills
Expert knowledge of composite materials, design principles, and manufacturing processes
Proficiency with CAD software (NX (Preferred), CATIA, SolidWorks, or similar)
Advanced experience with FEA tools (ANSYS, Nastran (Preferred), Abaqus, or similar)
Knowledge of composite-specific analysis tools (Fibersim, HyperSizer, or similar)
Understanding of laminate theory, failure criteria, and damage tolerance
Experience with autoclave, RTM, prepreg, and other composite manufacturing processes
Leadership & Communication
Proven track record of leading high-performing engineering teams
Strong written and verbal communication abilities
Experience working in fast-paced, dynamic environments
Ability to work effectively with cross-functional teams
Preferred Qualifications
Experience with eVTOL, rotorcraft, or urban air mobility systems
Knowledge of electric aircraft systems and integration challenges
Experience with certification of novel aircraft configurations
Physical Requirements
Ability to work in laboratory and manufacturing environments
Occasional travel to suppliers, test facilities, or regulatory meetings
Standard office environment with occasional shop floor work
Travel is required quarterly and at the discretion of leadership.
At Archer we aim to attract, retain, and motivate talent that possess the skills and leadership necessary to grow our business. For this position we are offering $172,800 - $216,000 per year.
Archer is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity and inclusion. We welcome applications from all qualified candidates regardless of race, gender, age, religion, sexual orientation, or disability status.
To Apply: Please submit your resume detailing your relevant experience with composite structures and team leadership.
Skills Required
- Bachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Materials Science, or related field
- 10+ years of experience in composite structures design and analysis
- 3+ years of management or team leadership experience
- Experience with aircraft certification processes
- Proficiency with CAD software (NX Preferred, CATIA, SolidWorks, or similar)
- Advanced experience with FEA tools (ANSYS, Nastran Preferred, Abaqus, or similar)
- Experience with autoclave, RTM, prepreg, and other composite manufacturing processes
Archer Aviation Compensation & Benefits Highlights
The following summarizes recurring compensation and benefits themes identified from responses generated by popular LLMs to common candidate questions about Archer Aviation and has not been reviewed or approved by Archer Aviation.
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Healthcare Strength — Health coverage includes medical, dental, and vision, alongside HSA/FSA options and an Employee Assistance Program, forming a comprehensive base. Wellness activities and company-sponsored outings are additionally referenced.
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Leave & Time Off Breadth — Time off includes generous PTO, paid sick days, and paid holidays, with unlimited PTO noted for exempt employees. This breadth provides above-average flexibility for a hardware-focused environment.
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Equity Value & Accessibility — Ownership opportunities include company equity, performance bonuses, and an Employee Stock Purchase Plan with a purchase discount. Equity is used to keep packages competitive in high-demand roles, creating meaningful upside potential.
Archer Aviation Insights
What We Do
Archer is an aerospace company building an all-electric vertical takeoff and landing aircraft focused on improving mobility in cities. The company's mission is to advance the benefits of sustainable air mobility. Archer is designing, manufacturing, and operating a fully electric aircraft that can carry four passengers for 60 miles at speeds of up to 150mph while producing minimal noise. Archer's team is based in the San Francisco Bay Area.
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