Materials and Processes Engineer, Airframe

Position Overview

We are seeking an experienced Composite Materials Subject Matter Expert (SME) to lead the development, qualification, and FAA certification of composite airframe materials and processes for our next-generation electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, certified under 14 CFR Part 23. This role is critical to ensure the safety, performance, and manufacturability of composite structures across the vehicle. The ideal candidate will bring deep expertise in composite materials, fabrication processes, and material qualification, along with a strong understanding of FAA certification requirements for composite airframes.

What you’ll do

• Serve as the technical authority on composite materials and processes, including thermoset and thermoplastic systems, prepregs, resin infusion, and out-of-autoclave techniques.
• Lead the development and qualification of composite materials and structural processes, including material allowables, process specifications, and design guidelines.
• Author and maintain material and process specifications, including test plans, qualification procedures, and documentation for FAA certification.
• Collaborate with design, manufacturing, and certification teams to ensure composite structures meet strength, stiffness, fatigue, and damage tolerance requirements.
• Support failure analysis, root cause investigations, and corrective actions related to composite structures.
• Interface with FAA, DERs, and other regulatory bodies to support certification and conformity efforts.

What you’ll need

• Master’s degree in Materials Science, Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field.
• Minimum 10 years of experience in aerospace composite materials and structures, with a strong track record of leadership in material qualification and certification under 14 CFR Part 23 or equivalent.
• Proven expertise in composite behavior, including fatigue, damage tolerance, environmental effects, and repairability.
• Extensive experience with material qualification, specification creation, and process development for composite airframes.
• Familiarity with FAA regulations, Advisory Circulars, ASTM standards, and MIL specifications governing composite materials and structures.
• Strong communication and project management skills.
• Experience with non-destructive testing (NDT) methods such as ultrasonic and thermography is a plus.

At Archer we aim to attract, retain, and motivate talent that possess the skills and leadership necessary to grow our business. We drive a pay-for-performance culture and reward performance that supports the Company’s business strategy. For this position we are targeting a base pay between $151,680 - $189,600. Actual compensation offered will be determined by factors such as job-related knowledge, skills, and experience.

Archer is committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodations to job applicants with physical or mental disabilities, and those with sincerely held religious beliefs. Applicants who may require reasonable accommodation for any part of the application or hiring process should provide their name and contact information to Archer’s People Team at [email protected]. Reasonable accommodations will be determined on a case-by-case basis.