Composites Technician

About the role

Archer is an aerospace company based in San Jose, California, focused on developing an all-electric vertical takeoff and landing aircraft designed to advance sustainable air mobility.

Responsibilities

• Work on Archer’s most challenging composite structures
• Provide manufacturing input to solve recurring issues
• Lead project activities and direct, coach, mentor employees in the fabrication of composite parts
• Manage assignment of fabrication team and allocate personnel appropriately based on skill sets and competencies
• Ensure personnel follow procedures and communicate design requirements effectively
• Read and interpret engineering drawings, schematics, modification documents, and test procedures
• Lay up composite materials according to engineering drawings and process specifications
• Perform bagging, vacuum infusion, bonding, cure cycles, demolding, trimming, and finishing procedures while maintaining high quality standards
• Inspect composite parts for defects and conduct repairs or refinishing as necessary
• Maintain detailed documentation and records of material usage, process steps, and inspection results for certification traceability
• Communicate regularly with manufacturing engineers and design teams, providing feedback on part buildability and potential process improvements
• Strong understanding of composite materials, layup methods, resin systems, and cure processes
• Familiarity with reading and interpreting technical drawings and process documentation
• Excellent attention to detail, manual dexterity, and commitment to safety in handling composite materials and chemicals
• Ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced, prototype-driven setting while maintaining rigorous quality standards

Requirements

• Minimum 5+ years of leadership experience in a fast-paced, prototyping environment
• Minimum 10+ years of experience in the aerospace and/or automotive industry as an engineering technician
• Solid understanding of mechanical and structural assembly techniques, including fastener installation, sealants, and alignment processes
• Knowledge of aircraft safety procedures, tool control, foreign object debris (FOD) prevention, and industry regulations
• Ability to read and interpret technical drawings, engineering instructions, and FAA guidelines
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to collaborate across various teams
• Strong problem-solving abilities and attention to detail
• Ability to work in a fast-paced, high-pressure environment with shifting priorities
• Physical ability to lift 50 pounds, work in confined spaces, and perform tasks that may expose you to hazardous materials

Bonus Qualifications

• A&P certification or equivalent experience
• Experience in Computer-Aided Design software (CAD) such as SolidWorks, Siemens NX, Catia, etc.
• Strong troubleshooting skills and the ability to diagnose and resolve integration and/or mechanical issues
• Experience working with electric aircraft, aircraft configuration management, and FAA conformity
• New Product Development experience in Aerospace & Aviation

Pay

Archer is targeting a base pay range of $35-50/hr for this position. Actual compensation offered will be determined by job-related knowledge, skills, and experience.