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.
We are seeking a skilled Materials and Process Engineer to lead material qualification efforts supporting FAA certification for both powertrain and composite structural components of our next-generation electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, certified under 14 CFR Part 23. This role involves managing internal and external testing programs, overseeing FAA-conformed qualification plans, and ensuring materials and processes meet performance and regulatory standards. The ideal candidate will have hands-on experience with mechanical testing equipment, adhesive bonding evaluations, and composite materials testing.
What you’ll do:
• Set up and manage an internal materials test lab, including mechanical test equipment and procedures.
• Operate and maintain mechanical testing systems for tension, compression, shear, fatigue, and adhesive bonding evaluations.
• Develop and oversee FAA-conformed material qualification programs, executed both in-house and at external laboratories.
• Author and maintain material and process specifications, test plans, qualification procedures, and certification documentation.
• Collaborate with design, manufacturing, and certification teams to ensure materials and processes meet performance and regulatory requirements.
• Analyze test data, support failure investigations, and implement corrective actions.
• Provide technical guidance on materials selection and process development for powertrain systems and composite structures.
• Interface with FAA, DERs, and other regulatory bodies to support certification and conformity activities.
What you’ll need:
• Bachelor’s degree in Materials Science, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field; Master’s preferred.
• 10+ years of experience in aerospace or electric vehicle materials and process engineering.
• Hands-on experience operating mechanical test equipment and managing material qualification programs.
• Strong understanding of FAA material qualification requirements under 14 CFR Part 23.
• Familiarity with composite manufacturing, adhesive bonding testing, and resin systems (epoxy, polyurethane).
• Knowledge of relevant standards including ASTM, MIL, and FAA Advisory Circulars.