About the job
Archer Aviation is a pioneering aerospace company located in San Jose, California, dedicated to revolutionizing air mobility with our all-electric vertical takeoff and landing aircraft. Our mission is to promote sustainable air transportation while ensuring a quieter flight experience for passengers.
We are committed to pushing boundaries and solving complex challenges, and we recognize that a diverse workforce is essential for innovation and success. Our focus is on fostering an inclusive and equitable environment that values the unique contributions of each team member.
Position Overview
We are in search of a seasoned Composite Materials Subject Matter Expert (SME) to spearhead the development, qualification, and FAA certification of composite airframe materials and processes for our next-generation electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, compliant with 14 CFR Part 23. This pivotal role ensures the safety, performance, and manufacturability of both composite and metallic structures across our aircraft. The ideal candidate will possess extensive knowledge in composite and metallic materials, aerospace fabrication techniques relevant to general aviation, and material, process, and supplier qualification. A robust understanding of FAA certification standards for airframes in 14 CFR Part 23 and/or 14 CFR Part 27 is also essential.
Key Responsibilities
- Act as the technical lead and authority on airframe development, providing SME guidance in composite materials and processes for thermoset and thermoplastic systems, including prepregs, resin infusion, and out-of-autoclave methods.
- Lead the development and qualification of composite materials and structural processes, establishing material allowables, process specifications, and design guidelines.
- Draft and uphold material and process specifications, including test plans, qualification protocols, and documentation necessary for FAA certification.
- Collaborate with design, manufacturing, and certification teams to ensure composite structures meet requirements for strength, stiffness, fatigue, and damage tolerance.
- Assist in failure analysis, root cause investigations, and corrective actions pertaining to composite structures.
- Engage with the FAA, DERs, and other regulatory entities to support certification and conformity initiatives.
