Manager, Design Engineering, Structures

Position Overview

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

Leadership & Management

• 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

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 $185,000 - $225,000. 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 people@archer.com. Reasonable accommodations will be determined on a case-by-case basis.