Materials & Processes Engineer

Position Overview

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.

What You’ll Do

• Serve as the technical focal and authority on the development of the airframe, including SME support in composite materials and processes for 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 Need

• Master’s degree in Materials, Chemical, or 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.
• 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.
• Strong communication and project management skills.
• Experience with non-destructive testing (NDT) methods is required.

Pay

Actual compensation offered will be determined by factors such as job-related knowledge, skills, and experience. Archer is targeting a base pay between $205,000 - $260,000 for this position.